Posted by JESSsMom on July 20, 2008, at 14:59:30
I haven't visited here for a long time. Life was pretty good, mentally, for about 2 1/2 years. Twice a year check ups with my PDoc and neurologist (headaches). Have been taking 25mg Topamax, 3mg Klonopin, and a nightly Rx antihistamine to help prevent recurring headaches.
Well, anxiety accompanied by depression have crept back in with a vengeance. I was in denial about it for a while, but can no longer be.
To make matters even worse, I have gained an enormous amount of weight over the last few years. I am shockingly obese for the first time in my life. Add to that my chronic pain problems (back and legs) and I am miserable.
I have researched Phentermine and it gives me great concern about my anxiety since it is an amphetamine. I have researched Meridia but have been down the evil Effexor road and will not go there again, since Meridia and Effexor are very similar (the norepinephrine reuptake).
I've been on Wellbutrin before and cannot tolerate the headaches and irritability.
Luvox has helped me in the past but ONLY when I was ruminating and obsessing. I am not doing those things.
Paxil makes me sleepy, hungry, and have a flat affect.
Zoloft did nothing for me in the past and neither did Lexapro, as I recall. It gets hard to remember. :(
I even considered looking into the Lap Band procedure and then getting the right meds in liquid form to help with my depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. I'll spare anyone reading this the boring details by just saying that the LB procedure is not for me either.I have a much anticipated appointment with my PDoc tomorrow afternoon. It's not just a check up anymore. I really need help. I am so depressed, anxious, in physical pain (back and legs), and very overweight.
Can someone help me with preparation for my appointment? What to hope for/ask for in the way of meds? I am thinking about a low dose of Prozac but Prozac is quite activating (my anxiety) and it does slow the metabolism/digestion of food (the last thing an obese person needs). I've taken it before and felt "weird." I don't remember a weight gain or loss. I read that it's a toss up.
My plan is to do Weight Watchers and start minimal exercise, gradually building up. I feel I can lose this weight but need to address my anxiety, depression, and chronic pain issues with medication.
Goal Number One - Tomorrow have a heart to heart with my PDoc and start the correct psych meds.
Any help or med suggestions are greatly appreciated!
Meg
poster:JESSsMom
thread:841086
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080718/msgs/841086.html