Depression

[Soapets]

I take a combination of Lexapro and Strattera. The worst thing about antidepressant medication is that it takes so long to reach it's full effectivenesss--4-6 weeks. I was told that if one kind didn't work, not to give up because sometimes it takes a few trials to get the right medication, or combination of medications, for you. But I whole-heartedly believe in them, and they have made a HUGE difference in my life, for the better. I will be on them for the rest of my life because of a brain chemical imbalance, and I am very thankful for them. Anyone who has never experienced it, can't understand it. Don't let anyone tell you that "you shouldn't take them because you'll get addicted to them", etc. Lots of people will say they don't believe in these kinds of medications (Tom Cruise, for instance!), but then they apparently have never experienced true depression that is caused by a brain chemical imbalance.

I hope you get started on one that is effective for you right away, without having to go through a lot of trial and error first. But don't get too discouraged, the right medication or combination of medications IS out there!

Good luck!

Deb

[Jadapit]

I've never taken any antidepressants but my husbands has. The doctor put him on Wellbutrin he was trying to stop smoking at the time, its supposed to help take the edge off. He hated it. He said it made him feel very angry all the time. But I know it does work for a lot of people. I'm sure your doctor will work with you and find what's best for you.

I'm sorry to here you are feeling so down. I hope you feel better soon. You will be in my thoughts. (((Hugs)))

[caseysmom]

My brother was on anti depressants when he died (we think) I am still waiting for the autopsy report to see if they complicated his condition. So I guess I am wary of them right at the moment.

[jenluckenbach]

The first medicine I tried was Lexapro. It did work, but it stopped working.
The second medicine (the one I am on now) is Zoloft. The dosage was raised a few times when it seemed to becoming less effective. When it worked, it worked great! But I am going to ask for yet a third attempt since I have been feeling super bad myself lately.
I too just want to be the happy-go-lucky person that I know lives deep inside me. Not this heavy hearted person I have been lately.
Unfortunatley my Dr. appt. isn't for another month.


But sheesh. I sure don't want to get a medication that makes me feel angry! That is the LAST thing I need on top of everything.

Good luck catnapper getting a proper medication.

[JenBKR]

((((hugs)))) I'm sorry that you are going through a difficult time, but I'm glad that you are seeking help. Typically anti-depressants are extremely helpful once you figure out what works best for you. It may take some trial and error, which may require some patience on your part. Lots of times people have the most problems with anti-depressants when they can't find the right one to work for them or they have been on the same one for a long time and the effectiveness wears off some. I am currently on Effexor, which works great for me, but the withdrawal is hell. If you miss even one pill, you will experience withdrawal, and it's horrible. I have heard some things about Wellbutrin too, that people have had problems with it. It really just depends on what works for you. Good luck, and keep us updated!


EDIT: Just read that you were on Lexapro before, Effexor is very similar to Lexapro so maybe you might have better luck with that one....just don't miss a pill!

[Pembroke_Corgi]

I don't have experience with any particular drug, but I'd encourage you to seek counseling (if your insurance covers it) as well as an antidepressant. The drug will improve your mood, but some kind of counseling will help in the long run, too. I think together they work best. You mentioned anxiety, this is often present with depression and if you think you may suffer from both maybe you could mention that to your doctor- there might be a drug to treat both. I'm sorry you're feeling low. Good luck at the doctor's, and I hope things start looking up for you soon.

[MomToThree]

I was on Effexor, it worked wonders for me. I love it. It made me, ME again. My only problem with it and all medications is, I forget to take them. It gave me the energy that I never thought I had or forgot I had. It made me happy, and I was smiling again.

My doctor first put me on Wellbutrin. I am a smoker and he said it would help me slow down on my smoking. It made me smoke more I noticed. He figured that wasn't the right medication for me.

I don't really know what all you are going through but if you ever need to talk I am here. I understand how you feel.