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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 23 of 23. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by TylerJ on March 13, 2006, at 6:39:04
Good Ol' Social Phobia...yea, I was labeled a Social Phobic in about 1988 or so. I always hated this "Label", I was and still am embarressed and ashamed of Social Phobia. It's so derogatory sounding, like I'm some social misfit or something. To this day I don't tell people I have social phobia because I'm afraid (caused by my social phobia I'm sure :) that they will think less of me. Like I'm some little weak, and afraid wimp, afraid of, of all things.. PEOPLE! Please no offense to anyone..sometimes I definitely do feel weak and afraid! Well, I'm definitely not weak, and not a wimp, but I do have a very hard time getting up in a large group and giving speeches/presentations. I know other people who are, well...often afraid, shy, timid, and they don't have a problem getting up in front of hundreds of people to deliver a speech..a damn good one at that!
Interesting though, since Parnate is working so well for me..I know I could give a speech,etc. with very little trouble. I hate being labeled a social phobic, but I do thank God for great medications that help, like Parnate and many others. :) What works for you?Tyler
Posted by Caedmon on March 13, 2006, at 8:14:10
In reply to Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by TylerJ on March 13, 2006, at 6:39:04
I dislike the label too, although I think I prefer Social Phobia to Social Anxiety Disorder (which seems too drawn out).
I have very little physical/mental anxiety around social situations. I used to. I'm more the depressed-avoidant type now. I'm not sure which is better. Now I can go into bars and get a drink, but I don't feel like talking to anybody.
Here is what I take:
Bupropion SR 300mg
Topamax 125mg
Fish Oil 3 g EPA/DHA
Risperidone 1 mg (currently weaning off)
Diazepam 5-15mg prnIf it weren't for the food/drug restrictions (esp the restrictions on asthma meds - I am asthmatic) I would strongly consider Parnate (tranylcypromine) as well. I hear it works well for my sort of hypersomnolent anhedonic social phobia/ mood disorder.
Posted by TylerJ on March 13, 2006, at 8:43:59
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by Caedmon on March 13, 2006, at 8:14:10
> I dislike the label too, although I think I prefer Social Phobia to Social Anxiety Disorder (which seems too drawn out).
>
> I have very little physical/mental anxiety around social situations. I used to. I'm more the depressed-avoidant type now. I'm not sure which is better. Now I can go into bars and get a drink, but I don't feel like talking to anybody.
>
> Here is what I take:
> Bupropion SR 300mg
> Topamax 125mg
> Fish Oil 3 g EPA/DHA
> Risperidone 1 mg (currently weaning off)
> Diazepam 5-15mg prn
>
> If it weren't for the food/drug restrictions (esp the restrictions on asthma meds - I am asthmatic) I would strongly consider Parnate (tranylcypromine) as well. I hear it works well for my sort of hypersomnolent anhedonic social phobia/ mood disorder.Thanks for your response. I wonder if EMSAM the new MAOI Patch would effect your asthma meds? It may be something for you to consider, I know the diet restrictions aren't the same as other MAOI's ...there might not be any diet restrictions at all..i'm not totally sure. Read up on it if you want..I find it quite interesting and it's a med i would definitely consider if needed. Take care.
Tyler
Posted by ed_uk on March 13, 2006, at 13:57:18
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by Caedmon on March 13, 2006, at 8:14:10
Hi
There is no evidence that MAOIs interact with any of the following inhaled anti-asthma drugs:
Terbutaline
Albuterol
Formoterol
Beclometasone
Fluticasone
Budesonide
Mometasone
IpratropiumEphedrine, an old asthma med, clearly interacts with MAOIs. This warning is often generalised to all bronchodilators, but there is not evidence that this is actually the case.
Although MAOIs do have *serious* interactions with some medications, many of the alledged interactions are mythical. Similarly, some of the commonly stated dietary restrictions are unnecessary.
Regards
Ed
Posted by RobertDavid on March 13, 2006, at 14:47:58
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » Caedmon, posted by ed_uk on March 13, 2006, at 13:57:18
I have generalized social anxiety (primary), generalized anxiety disorter and mild depression.
Though I have taken just about every anti depressant and many other drugs, the only thing that has given me relief has been klonopin, though not 100% relief, but at least I'm functional.
Klonopin does not help with the depression and though my doctor disagrees, I have read here from many that suggest klonopin my actually agrivate my mood/depression.
It's my plan to try EMSAM as soon as it's available (my first try at an MAOI). Hopefully it works either blended with the klonopin or perhaps ultimately as mono therapy. If not, I plan to give Nardil and or Parnate a try.
Posted by med_empowered on March 13, 2006, at 14:52:37
In reply to Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by TylerJ on March 13, 2006, at 6:39:04
yeah..i have social phobia (pretty bad)..I've wanted to try MAOIs, but I'm young (21) and have mood swings, so docs seem reluctant to go for it. For some reason, APs seem big now--I guess to replace benzos--but its lame...APs blunt my personality, and I refuse to accept their risks (apparently, there's some evidence the new ones cause movement disorders pretty often, just like the old ones).
I'm also concerned about the dietary restrictions but..if it worked well, I could make sacrifices.
Posted by TylerJ on March 13, 2006, at 15:42:48
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by RobertDavid on March 13, 2006, at 14:47:58
> I have generalized social anxiety (primary), generalized anxiety disorter and mild depression.
>
> Though I have taken just about every anti depressant and many other drugs, the only thing that has given me relief has been klonopin, though not 100% relief, but at least I'm functional.
>
> Klonopin does not help with the depression and though my doctor disagrees, I have read here from many that suggest klonopin my actually agrivate my mood/depression.
>
> It's my plan to try EMSAM as soon as it's available (my first try at an MAOI). Hopefully it works either blended with the klonopin or perhaps ultimately as mono therapy. If not, I plan to give Nardil and or Parnate a try.Good for you! I hope you find that they are as helpful to you as they are to me. MAOI's Rock! My doctor tells me all the time that benzos can agrivate depression-he's right, they are depressants..but they are great for anxiety. Klonopin's an excellent benzo. Take care and best wishes to you.
Tyler
Posted by TylerJ on March 13, 2006, at 15:53:03
In reply to social phobia, posted by med_empowered on March 13, 2006, at 14:52:37
> yeah..i have social phobia (pretty bad)..I've wanted to try MAOIs, but I'm young (21) and have mood swings, so docs seem reluctant to go for it. For some reason, APs seem big now--I guess to replace benzos--but its lame...APs blunt my personality, and I refuse to accept their risks (apparently, there's some evidence the new ones cause movement disorders pretty often, just like the old ones).
>
> I'm also concerned about the dietary restrictions but..if it worked well, I could make sacrifices.
>
>I hear you about AP's...they can cause Tartive Dyskinesia characterized by abnormal and involuntary movements. And quite often it's irreversable...No Thanks, this is one class of drugs I refuse to take-I don't need anymore problems!
Hey, if you do try an MAOI, I think you'll be pleasently surprized at how easy the diet is to follow. And I'm not positive but I think w/ EMSAM there is no dietary restrictions-I may be wrong though. Hey, good luck and I wish you the very best.Tyler
Posted by TylerJ on March 13, 2006, at 15:55:12
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » Caedmon, posted by ed_uk on March 13, 2006, at 13:57:18
> Hi
>
> There is no evidence that MAOIs interact with any of the following inhaled anti-asthma drugs:
>
> Terbutaline
> Albuterol
> Formoterol
> Beclometasone
> Fluticasone
> Budesonide
> Mometasone
> Ipratropium
>
> Ephedrine, an old asthma med, clearly interacts with MAOIs. This warning is often generalised to all bronchodilators, but there is not evidence that this is actually the case.
>
> Although MAOIs do have *serious* interactions with some medications, many of the alledged interactions are mythical. Similarly, some of the commonly stated dietary restrictions are unnecessary.
>
> Regards
>
> EdThanks for the great info Ed. :)
Tyler
Posted by Declan on March 13, 2006, at 19:20:59
In reply to Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by TylerJ on March 13, 2006, at 6:39:04
There's a difference between shy and timid. Shy people are reserved. I'm often quite reluctant to initiate anything social. Once it's started it becomes different. No drug has changed this much. Amphetamine (cocaine!), opiates and alcohol help for a bit. I find the process of starting anything social a real pain. It's like having to arrange myself so as to interact is way too much of a strain. I guess I'm avoidant. Then you spend so long feeling weird and depersonalised (from the drugs taken perhaps) that it's difficult to find a reliable point of interaction with anyone. And yet for some people, with whatever problems, the making of casual contact can come very easily.
Declan
Posted by Phillipa on March 13, 2006, at 19:38:28
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by Declan on March 13, 2006, at 19:20:59
Different personality types. I like to be alone too. The only time I've really socialized was at work and that's the way I prefer it. Fondly, Phillipa
Posted by Jakeman on March 13, 2006, at 19:58:08
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » Declan, posted by Phillipa on March 13, 2006, at 19:38:28
Following up with Phillipa and Declan. Jung came up with the ideal of introverts and extroverts. Each have something to contribute. There several books out which elaborate, one is called "The Introvert Advantage"
warm regards, Jake
Posted by Rocket Jackson on March 14, 2006, at 14:44:22
In reply to Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by TylerJ on March 13, 2006, at 6:39:04
It was such a relief when I discovered this forum and learned there were others out there suffering from some of the same ailments I do. I sincerely appreciate all of the support and feedback provided for each other.
My social phobia was "discovered" upon viewing a Paxil commercial back in early '00. Though the symptoms were pervasive for many years previous, this was the first time I had actually seen a diagnosis and treatment slapped on my condition (though I quickly learned personally and anecdotally of how ineffective Paxil is for this :)). This really opened my eyes to the research being done and it coincided well with my transition from the basic sciences phase of medical school (first two years) to the clinical phase (last two years). Unfortunately, the typical med student's exposure to conditions such as this is very limited, and unless he/she decides to go on and specialize in Psychiatry, the knowledge of the disease and treatment remains limited (i.e. SSRIs, SSRIs, SSRIs, and maybe Effexor). This is obviously unfortunate, as I feel the condition goes largely misdiagnosed or mistreated (I was originally placed on Vistoril, an antihistamine, by an FP for my social anxiety, which I took an entire 'zero' times). But I digress...
After years of busted attempts with SSRIs and the rest, I found the goods with Klonopin. However, as I've stated in previous post, I've limited my use to 1-2x per week to maintain its optimal effect (I feel I've lost it with attempts at daily use in the past), leaving me with many days in between without treatment. So my search has been ongoing for that daily treatment, and recently I think I've mustered the courage to give Parnate a try. I start today. Wish me luck!
Take care!
RJ
Posted by Declan on March 14, 2006, at 17:50:49
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » Declan, posted by Phillipa on March 13, 2006, at 19:38:28
You're not that way over the internet though, are you PJ? Here you are a very friendly sociable type. You were the first person here to babblemail me.
Declan
Posted by TylerJ on March 14, 2006, at 18:35:48
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by Rocket Jackson on March 14, 2006, at 14:44:22
> It was such a relief when I discovered this forum and learned there were others out there suffering from some of the same ailments I do. I sincerely appreciate all of the support and feedback provided for each other.
>
> My social phobia was "discovered" upon viewing a Paxil commercial back in early '00. Though the symptoms were pervasive for many years previous, this was the first time I had actually seen a diagnosis and treatment slapped on my condition (though I quickly learned personally and anecdotally of how ineffective Paxil is for this :)). This really opened my eyes to the research being done and it coincided well with my transition from the basic sciences phase of medical school (first two years) to the clinical phase (last two years). Unfortunately, the typical med student's exposure to conditions such as this is very limited, and unless he/she decides to go on and specialize in Psychiatry, the knowledge of the disease and treatment remains limited (i.e. SSRIs, SSRIs, SSRIs, and maybe Effexor). This is obviously unfortunate, as I feel the condition goes largely misdiagnosed or mistreated (I was originally placed on Vistoril, an antihistamine, by an FP for my social anxiety, which I took an entire 'zero' times). But I digress...
>
> After years of busted attempts with SSRIs and the rest, I found the goods with Klonopin. However, as I've stated in previous post, I've limited my use to 1-2x per week to maintain its optimal effect (I feel I've lost it with attempts at daily use in the past), leaving me with many days in between without treatment. So my search has been ongoing for that daily treatment, and recently I think I've mustered the courage to give Parnate a try. I start today. Wish me luck!
>
> Take care!
>
> RJ
I do wish you luck! And, as you know Parnate has been a life savor for me. I hope it works just as well for you...if it does it will change your life. Contact me ANYTIME if you have questions about Parnate, send me a babblemail e-mail. I'm really happy for you, and I do believe it will work for you. One thing to get prepared for is insomnia,Parnate almost always causes insomnia...talk to your take about Lunesta, ambien cr, or even Trazodone-it's a very sedating AD. I take Traz 250 mg at night, plus 50 mgs. of benadryl and it knocks me out and keeps me out all night. Another thing I do is take all my Parnate at once first thing in the morning 6-7 a.m. Parnate has a pretty short half life and this helps not to be to wired at bedtime. Parnate is activating Almost amphetamine like in the beginning, you may notice a surge of energy after one week like I did..It feels so good, after being a human slug for too damn long. Congratulations and GOOD LUCK..I'm optimistic and happy for you!Tyler
Posted by Phillipa on March 14, 2006, at 19:16:01
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » Phillipa, posted by Declan on March 14, 2006, at 17:50:49
Declan you must be kidding I was the first to babblemail you? I wonder why. I do like to be alone well maybe just with a man. Fondly, Phillipa
Posted by Caedmon on March 14, 2006, at 22:46:36
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » Caedmon, posted by ed_uk on March 13, 2006, at 13:57:18
Ed,
Can you provide me with a link/reference for this information? I must say, if you are right, then I'm off to request Parnate ASAP!
I take fluticasone and albuterol. I'm not worried about the fluticasone - it's very 'clean' and not hardly absorbed in the bloodstream - but the albuterol can be.
BTW anyone know about inhaled l-amphetamine? The stuff in the Vick's inhalers? (It's used for nasal congestion but it came to mind.)
Thanks
> Hi
>
> There is no evidence that MAOIs interact with any of the following inhaled anti-asthma drugs:
>
> Terbutaline
> Albuterol
> Formoterol
> Beclometasone
> Fluticasone
> Budesonide
> Mometasone
> Ipratropium
>
> Ephedrine, an old asthma med, clearly interacts with MAOIs. This warning is often generalised to all bronchodilators, but there is not evidence that this is actually the case.
>
> Although MAOIs do have *serious* interactions with some medications, many of the alledged interactions are mythical. Similarly, some of the commonly stated dietary restrictions are unnecessary.
>
> Regards
>
> Ed
Posted by Declan on March 15, 2006, at 19:26:25
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » ed_uk, posted by Caedmon on March 14, 2006, at 22:46:36
Gee, you have l-amphetamine in Vicks inhalers? Nothing like that here in Australia. I imagine it would be dangerous with Parnate. It would be absorbed, wouldn't it?
Declan
Posted by Phillipa on March 16, 2006, at 17:09:14
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » ed_uk, posted by Caedmon on March 14, 2006, at 22:46:36
It wouldn't be safe taking an MAOI in combination with L amphtamine decongestant wouldn't be safe so don't do it. I looked it up and it's very dangerous to do. Fondly, Phillipa
Posted by Phillipa on March 16, 2006, at 17:15:29
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » ed_uk, posted by Caedmon on March 14, 2006, at 22:46:36
I also found this old link you might want to read it. Fondly, Phillipa
http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050723/msgs/534537.html
Posted by Phillipa on March 17, 2006, at 16:40:31
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder...., posted by Phillipa on March 16, 2006, at 17:15:29
Above posts meant for Cademon. Fondly, Phillipa. Looks like I'm getting good at this reseaching the archives.
Posted by ed_uk on March 21, 2006, at 16:21:35
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » ed_uk, posted by Caedmon on March 14, 2006, at 22:46:36
Hi
Did you see the link to my earlier thread? Phillipa posted it in her last post.
Ed
Posted by Caedmon on March 21, 2006, at 23:14:37
In reply to Re: Social Phobia/Social Anxiety Disorder.... » Caedmon, posted by ed_uk on March 21, 2006, at 16:21:35
Yes I did see the link posted previously, thanks to both of you. :) I think cautious exploration will be helpful. Now to find a doctor who will prescribe me my tranylcypromine...
- C
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