Promethazine

[Lizziedee]

Hi not wrote in a while as I had swapped from paroxetine to mirtazapine with great results. I’m going through a difficult time judt now and my anxiety is constant,I feel physically sick,negative thoughts and all the other horrid things that go with anxiety! My gp has prescribed promethazine but I’m so afraid to take these due to reading horror reviews (why do we do this?) has anyone got any good things to say about this medication? X

[Grateful71]

I've never tried it Lizziedee but I know it's not uncommon to have side effects while things settle down. I understand your fear and I can only suggest you maybe take more advice if you are able or hopefully someone here has some experience 🙏

[Lizziedee in reply to Grateful71]

Thankyou, I will eventually take it as I can’t go on this way only one way to find out if it will help I guess? Appreciate your reply.

[Missy_D]

I take promethazine prn when I can't sleep. It's only an antihistamine and can be got over the counter with no prescription (in the UK). it's side effect is to make you drowsy which is why I take it when I cannot sleep. Never had any other side effects and I take it for a few days and then stop with no ill effects. What horror reviews have you read as I not seen any (although I refuse to google anything about my medications. I will read the pils leaflet or use Minds website).

FYI mind.org.uk/information-sup...

I am also on Mirtazapine, Quetiapine and Buspirone xxx

[Lizziedee in reply to Missy_D]

Thankyou for the reply, wish I never googled these things it only causes more anxiety! I read it was very difficult to wake next day,restless legs, even seizures!! I will start my dose tomorrow thanks again xxx

[Missy_D in reply to Lizziedee]

I would slightly agree with the waking up, but then it wouldn't be used as a tranquilliser if it didn't induce sleep. I certainly don't tale it if I have to be awake early. However once I have awoken naturally I don't find I am suffering from brain fog or anything like that. I have never heard of it causing seizures.

[Bela64]

Hi lizziedee my doctor also prescribed me this ..like you I’m scared to take it ..however I did a little research only to finding out that this medication is for allergies..but also help with insomnia it has a sedate effect ... I was taking mirtazepine for over 2 months and itDidn’t help me at all..in fact it made me very anxious and very depressed.. I’m now looking for alternative.. how long are you taking mirtazepine ?

[Missy_D in reply to Bela64]

I have been on Mirtazapine for 2 years. Initial dose of 15mg and it knocked me out. When the dose was increased to 30mg I initially took 2 x 15 because I wanted the sedative effect which decreases as the dose goes up. I am now on 45mg and I take it as 1 tablet hence the use of promethazine for sleep. I have to admit that I have found Mirtazapine to be a very effective anti depressant and I have had no side effects.

[Bela64 in reply to Missy_D]

I’m glad that mirtazapine helping you ... I’m having a nightmare finding any medication to help me unfortunately..😔one day soon I will find myself again 🙏🏽

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Hi Bela64, sorry to hear this, it’s such a horrid feeling when we can’t get any relief from out mental health problems. I was reassured by my gp not to be disheartened as their are many different treatments to try! Please don’t give up hope “this too shall pass” x

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Hi, I’ve been on it abt 6 months now and this past 2 weeks while my anxiety has been so bad I am unsure if the mirtazapine is working? It did at the start really worked well but I’m just at a very anxious state so feel unsure about everything!! I will try the promethazine later this afternoon and hopefully will be able to advise you more xx

[Missy_D in reply to Lizziedee]

If the anxiety isn't helped by promethazine you could try asking for buspirone. I take it with Mirtazapine for anxiety when it is bad enough for me to want to take it. Has a very short half life so comes out the system really quickly. On my really really bad days I will take all 4 of my prescribed medication which is Mirtazapine 45mg, Quetiapine 300mg, Buspirone 10mg and 50mg Promethazine. I normally sleep for about 14 hours but for me that is my safe space and if I that agitated then "sleeping it off" is safest for me. Really hope you find a solution that works for you xxxx

[Lizziedee in reply to Missy_D]

Thankyou for your reply, I will phone my gp tomorrow morning and ask about this. I have diazepam that are prescribed but I don’t like taking this although When I’m really bad I take 5mg and it does take the edge off. I try to read CBT books as I had this therapy a few years ago and it was helpful, when we are in high anxiety states it is so difficult to think back to a time we were not so bad? Nothing is rational for me just now it’s catastrophic thinking and in turn this feeds all the horrid symptoms that come with anxiety! I really appreciate you taking the time to help and hope you are doing ok? Xxx

[Bela64 in reply to Missy_D]

Thank you missy .. i wish cud take all those medication ,but for some reason I’m very sensitive to all medication.. I’m in a total dark hole with no light in sight.. I’m destroying my family life’s .. and that make me sad and frustrated .. the anxiety is turn on day and night.. 😢

[Jerry_Adam in reply to Bela64]

I am so sorry, i feel your pain. How are you holding up now? What do tou mean by you are sensitive to medication? Does your body has a stress respons when taken it? Thats happening in my case... please hold on... maybe i will do a ketamine infusion

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Hi lizziedee did you try the promethazine ? If so did it help ? I had some last night but it done nothing forme unfortunately.. infact in think I fell worse today.. what a rollercoaster I’m going through 😢

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Hi Bela, no I never took it I’m such a wimp! I am sorry it’s not helped you any ☹️ are u having a hard time today? Can I help? It’s so horrible going through this and trying so hard to make it through the day!! X

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Yes I’m having a horrible day and I had a horrible night full of anxiety ..sometimes the only thing that helps is diazepam 2mg . But my doctor won’t prescribed it .. I’m still waiting for a appointment with psychiatrist.. a long waiting list even with private ones .. wish doctors treated mental health a little more serious.. 😔

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I had to take 2x2mg diazepam this morning also, I know how frustrating it is and the future appointments do not help the here and now 😥 I have also had the horrid physically sick feeling,negative thoughts,catastrophic thinking and all the other nasty effects of anxiety! I am so grateful for all I have but it doesn’t help my anxiety I try to tell myself this will pass but it’s every day just now. Do you ever read the cbt books? I know it’s so difficult to concentrate on anything when we are so anxious 😟

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

I’m sorry to Hear that you are also having a bad time ,, I haven’t read any CBT books , but I have Read many others self help books .. I’m now trying to reed the power of now ,but I’m finding very hard to concentrate.. everything is hard even watching tv is difficult.. i stop taking mirtazepine 4 weeks ago but I’m thinking in going back to it for sleep I cannot take this sleepiness any longer ..my anxiety was horrible last night I only managed to sleep for 1hour and when did I wake up I was in terrible panic state ..I already start and stop taking mirtazepine twice in the past ..because dr won’t give me anything else until I see psychiatrist..they running out of medication for me To try .. wish you better soon

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

The mirtazapine definitely helps for sleep but when anxiety is so bad nothing really seems to help, the waking through the night with it is horrid u feel so alone 😟 their are loads of medications to try please don’t get too disheartened it’s all trial and error unfortunately. I’m trying to put a brave face on for my partner and son which is so hard all I want to do is run away! I really hope u get some relief soon x

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Yes I know they are !, and I have tried 10 + with very little help or worse .. I tried also busperone and quetiapine ... those two made me even worse with horrible adrenaline rush.😢 like you I’m also trying to keep on a brave face for my family..but some days is almost impossible..do you think I should give the mirtazepine another chance ? I need some sleep...I wish I had some diazepam I cud really do with it today ..😢 I hope you don’t mind me asking you all this !? I just don’t now what to do anymore..

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I’m really happy to be able to talk to you I know exactly how it is, I would try the mirtazapine again as it helped me so much. I’m on 45mg just now and I used to study mental health at uni and my niece is in her final year studying pharmacology she told me the mirtazapine are better due to it being an ssri and nsri I have only ever been on ssri so it’s supposed to be even better? I try a cup of sweet milky tea when I’m so anxious it doesn’t take the anxiety away but can be calming. I would contact your gp tomorrow as you can’t go through Xmas and new year they have a duty of care, explain you have started the mirtazapine again as you are so desperate for any relief. Most gps are reluctant to give diazepam but just tell them you can’t keep going through the days and nights in constant anxiety x

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Thank you I will contact dr tomorrow and hope they can give me something to take the mental pain way .. Christmas is already going to be hard for all of us ..Where I live is tear 4 with the pandemic..not visit aloud ..😢where in uk do you live ? I live in Essex

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Im in Scotland so we are tier 4 also, it’s such a thought I try to get myself in the Xmas spirit for my family but you know yourself it’s so hard! The whole trying to do the simplest housework chores etc is a huge effort ☹️

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Wow I love Scotland .. my best friend lives in Aberdeen I spend lots of good times over there when my mental health was good .. love highlands what a beautiful place ..when this rollercoaster ride is over I will for sure explore Scotland a little bit more .. if you don’t mind me asking , where in Scotland are you ?

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Glasgow, yes Scotland is beautiful I’m learning to drive so when I do I can hopefully move further north. Do you have a partner that you can talk with when you are like this? I do and he’s great but I tend to keep this to myself as I feel I’m being a burden I know he doesn’t see it this way! I have a close family but again I hate them seeing me like this if u know what I mean?

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

I have great family and I do have a husband and 3 grow up children. Me and my husband live in different homes . But I do get on very well better than when we lived together.. les argument.. he does listen but he doesn’t understand how I fell because I was so out going and always happy . Than this trouble start and everything fell apart . I have not reason to fell that way ,that is way i hard for me and my family to comprehend what is going in on with me ... I have this horrible illness for the past 4 years now and so far I haven’t found any medication to help .. some days is worse than others ,more worse days than good ones . Some days I get more negative thinking that I will never be the some again 😢and today is one of those days ..

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I totally understand & that’s one of the worst things when the anxiety etc appears from nowhere ☹️ When it makes no sense to us how can we possibly explain to others what we are going through? Hold on though and hopefully things will settle soon. I think a lot of people are going through similar just now with this pandemic? Will you start the mirtazapine again tonight?

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Im having a mix feeling at the mo about it ..but I also know that I need something to sleep and to calm this anxiety down , and mirtazapine is the only medication I have in hand at the mo ..may be i cud try half of the pill tonight and see how I fell tomorrow.. the pill is 15 mg .. today I didn’t get not even one minute of peace and now I have the worse headache and tinnitus to make things even worse 😢 I was wondering if this cud be discontinuation síndrome from mirtazapine is now been over 3 weeks since I stop taking it .. I wasn’t taking it that long though.. just over 3 months.. with a gap of 5 days in the middle.. who knows !? so many things going through my painful brain at the mo ..btw how are you feeling today ?

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Hi Bella, did u take the mirtazapine last night? I think the headaches etc are down to severe anxiety. I’ve had this and again my niece who studies pharmacology has assured me side effects don’t last long no matter how long I have taken medication. I would phone gp this morning and explain how much distress you are in with the anxiety.

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Good morning lizziedee yes I did take mirtazapine but no until 2 o’clock this morning .. managed to have 5 hours sleep better than nothing I guess ! Unfortunately is not point calling the doctors because they won’t give me anything,I called than on Friday and they just referred me to see a psychiatrist again , they said they cannot help me anymore as they tried many medication for me to try with not success. I did ask for some diazepam just to get me through Christmas.but they refused to give to me .. I’m now back to square one .. I decided to book an appointment with a private psychiatrist but they only cud offer me a telephone appointment on 12 of January I booked it anyway , I’m so desperate that I don’t care how much it cost .. been depressed is bad enough, but been anxious and depressed is another level .i just pray that soon I will find the answer for this very debilitating illness 🙏🏼Btw how are you today ?

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I’m so sorry to hear about your gp I would honestly think about changing as this is not a helpful attitude! You need reassurance and understanding. I am still so anxious it’s in my stomach constantly and I’ve spoke with my pharmacist this morning who is brilliant with me she has again reassured me the promethazine is safe and encouraged me to try it tonight so I know if it will work. I sleep well on mirtazapine and although I’ve woke a couple of times I’m usually fine going back to sleep, all I can suggest is taking the mirtazapine for now it can’t be any worse than what you are going through just now? I take mine earlier now 7/8 and wake at 6am in morning no grogginess at all. I am unsure when this new dose of 45mg will kick in but I will spk to my gp after the holidays to see what the next step is. Is the anxiety and low mood with you constantly? X

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Yes the anxiety and low mood forever holding my hands ..is totally nightmare.. I’m sorry to hear that you are also feeling anxious.. is horrible isn’t it.Only us suffering knows how it fells .. sounds like you have a very good support team around you, and that is very important. I haven’t got a good GP every time I make an appointment I see a different doctor asking the some questions... how can I help you....Is so frustrating to have to repeat my self all the time .i think it make the anxiety worse .. do you have any therapy treatments to help you a bit more ? If you sleeping well way the doctor prescribed you promethazine ? GP suggested for me to sleep ..i dit take for a few nights but it didn’t work 😡today I’m feeling a bit tired .and the anxiety still there Hopefully it will subside when the mirtazapine start to do what it supposed to do 🤞🏻

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I was prescribed the promethazine to help the constant sick feeling that anxiety brings, I have great support and family also but I don’t like telling them how bad I am as I know they will worry we are all very close. I had to persuade my friend to swap doctors as like yours they were no help at all! She has now got proper treatment etc. I am going back to my psychiatrist in January as I was away from them a long time but this can’t go on! I totally understand the helplessness and having to repeat everything to another gp it’s so frustrating & I tell myself let’s get Xmas out the way then it will be something else!! I love listening to Harry Potter audiobooks (big kid) lol I try to read books on cbt and keep a diary which I would so recommend. It does help if even a little. We are in this battle together and I’m here anytime to chat x

[Bela64]

I know what you mean .i try so hard to keep to myself but some days is impossible..my son who lives with me he can tell just by the looking in my face ..he is so worried and that makes me fell so guilty .. how long you bem on medication ? Hope the psychiatrist find the answers for you ..I also have an appointment with private psychiatrist in January . . Im praying that he will sort me out 🙏🏼 Thank you so much for replying to me .. im in here also whenever you fell like a chat .. is good to talk ..

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I’ve been on meds since my daughter passed away she was premature and only lived 11 days, I was on paroxetine for about 12 years and they helped for most of that time. The last 18months they weren’t helping so I was swapped to mirtazapine and was so happy they worked right away! The reason I know my anxiety is back is because I had family problems but that’s away just now yet the anxiety remains. Bela it’s a struggle I know ☹️ my son is 16 and I feel so guilty hes excited for Xmas as Is my partner and family but I want to run away! I feel like I’m ready to scream and cry with the anxiety it’s draining. I really hope you get the proper help and support in January and I know right now it seems so long away it does nothing for the here and now!! I am trying to do the housework and it’s such a chore!! Do you have plans for the day? Do u read? I know concentration is difficult when we are like this.

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Oh bless you !, it must been a horrible time for you .life sometimes can be very Hard on us .. I think you must be a very strong lady with lots of love to give specially for you family . .. I haven’t no plans for today just relaxing or trying to...I do read books sometimes.. but by the time I get to The next chapter I forget what I was reading..lol .. I wish I cud forget about this anxiety.. that would be amazing.. I’m going to get some CBT books. At the mo Im reading the power of now .. have you read it ? Is very powerful book ..

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Thank you for your kind words 😊 I’m just heading home went to tesco which wasn’t one of my best ideas! Was so busy and I couldn’t wait to get out. I’ve not read that book I will make a point of looking for it in my bookstore. The anxiety is horrific and it’s such a battle for us, I’m so glad I got to speaking to you it has definitely helped knowing we can understand each other! Are you going to take the mirtazapine again tonight? I think the 15mg is actually better just going with reviews and I know I was great when I started that dose. I think it’s so unfair the gp won’t give you diazepam to help over the holidays! I know they can be addictive but I had an addiction to codeine painkillers which was horrific I had to go onto something called bupronorphine to get off the painkillers which I was actually prescribed!! However my gp still prescribes diazepam even after this I really think you should try move gps x

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

It has been Lovely chatting with you also ,I’m glad we start this conversation ,it does helps to know that we are not alone .. you are very brave I hate going food shopping for some crazy reason I always fell more anxious and panicking..the some you I can’t wait to get out of there . .but I’m gonna have to go tomorrow a some point😷wish me luck.. I think I might take the mirtazapine tonight because I need to catch up with some sleep , I’m feeling exhausted all the time .anxiety eats up all you energy don’t you think!? Btw you must read the power of now ,author:Eckhart tolle .. it is very good ,he makes so much sense .are you feeling a bit better now that you done you shopping?

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

It’s so draining and the days can seem never ending!! The sick feeling has stopped for now, that’s literally the first in two weeks!! I’m not sure if it’s the mirtazapine starting to work or if it’s just a small break but I’m so grateful. It has made such a difference speaking to you also. Tomorrow will be ok you will get through it I really think you should keep with the mirtazapine if you can? Hopefully you can get a good sleep tonight and feel a bit better tomorrow. I would take the mirtazapine soon and hopefully it relaxes you before you fall asleep.

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Good idea I think I will do that .. I will keep taking the mirtazapine until my appointment with psychiatrist and see what he has to offer .. hopefully this time around it will work 🤞🏻I will Let you know how I get on with my shopping trip tomorrow,I’m dread it 🥺when I go shopping on my own I talk to myself In silence all the way until I’m out of there .. I’m so glad that you are feeling better now .. hopefully the mirtazapine is doing the job . hey fingers crossed that it will stay that way 🤞🏻Have a lovely evening

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Good morning Bela, how did you get on last night with the mirtazapine? I hope you got some sleep. I’m thinking of you and hope today you can get through the shopping etc. Have you tried listening to music or a book while you are in supermarkets it may help?

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Good morning lizzie yes i did have mirtazapine and I had a ok sleep. But still wake up feeling anxious as usual.. for some strange reason I always wake up feeling very anxious and low 🤷🏼‍♀️some times it gets better in the afternoon but not always , gonna try to do a bit of shopping soon hopefully the anxiety have a little break and live me in peace for bit 🤞🏻Are you feeling good today ? I’m praying that you are ... 💫🌈

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Hi Bela, was on a driving lesson I tell you it’s the only thing that distracts me for a bit. I hate the mornings with anxiety it’s just horrid ☹️ I have so much to do but even the smallest thing is a bother! Have you been shopping yet?

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Good morning Lizzie I kept myself very busy yesterday trying to distract my self ,I did managed to go shopping eventually but not to ten o’clock in the evening with my son, it was ok , last night I had horrible night sleep the mirtazapine didn’t do his job . I had horrible nightmare .almost like sleep paralysed and this morning I don’t fell great.😢 the anxiety always plays tricks with my heart .somes times it beat so fast and other times it beats weird or miss beat ...very strange .. another symptom is this a horrible buzzing feeling in my head a bit like tinnitus I think ..is absolutely horrible and always worse in the morning 😔 all those body sensations makes me very low and worried thinking something horrible is going to happen to me ...not good feeling . Christmas is almost here and I don’t fell very excited about it.. is so sad because I always loved Christmas so much before this illness.. anyway less about me ! How are you today ? Did you had a good night sleep? Have you got any plans for today ? Glad that you enjoy you driving lessons..when you planning to have you test ? I love drive in the country roads when I fell less anxious.,it keep me in the present moment...

Hi

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Hi Bela that impending doom feeling is horrid, I’m just at shops it’s crazy can’t wait to get home! Need to get all my housework done 🤦🏻‍♀️ I’m the same as you really not feeling festive at all and I feel guilty ☹️at last it’s only 1 day, I hope u have a better day today x

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

I’m feeling very tired today can’t keep my eye open 😒must be because I didn’t have a goodnight sleep or the mirtazapine is making me very sleepy ! who knows !? . I don’t like days like this 🙁let’s try get through this Christmas and be positive us much as we can be .. is hard I know .. I have a question. How often do you need take diazepam? Did you ever tried others benzodiazepine? Only asking because the psychiatrist I see in the past told my doctor they cud prescribe me lorazepam or clonazepam one of those two I think🤔 .. but my GP said a big NO to that . .. people who abuse those medication left the ones who really need it without.😡

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I don’t give myself a hard time now if I need the diazepam a few times a day then I take it, lorazepam might be better for you and I know the frustration with gps being reluctant to prescribe benzos. I haven’t tried others but one of my sisters is a nurse and said she chooses lorazepam before diazepam due to it being more effective? Your body will be adjusting to the mirtazapine I take mine early like 6/7pm as I feel it makes it easier in mornings where I’m up at 5:45am with partners alarm for work. It might be worth a try for you? Your psychiatrist can prescribe medication so it might be best speaking to him/her about this. I’m thinking exact same let’s get through Xmas, we are all on the same journey. I would try phoning the gp explain you are in constant distress with the anxiety and really struggling. X

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Thank you Lizzie I think I will call GP tomorrow morning and hopefully they give me something, but I’m no convinced they will though 😌

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Sorry is me again .. I find that mirtazapine makes me a bit irritable and hopeless and that is the reason way I stop taken it ..but than when I did stop I fell worse .. I’m so confused way antidepressants that supposed to help with depression , but for me I think it makes me more depressed.. is that normal 🤷🏼‍♀️So sorry for keeping asking you all this , but I find so easy chatting with you ... and thank you so much for hear me 🥰

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Don’t ever appologise honest I don’t mind at all 🥰 I remember I had a lot of anger in the early days of starting mirtazapine my gp told me it’s common and it’s adjusting it does pass tho I promise. Mirtazapine has both ssri and nsri which is for depression and anxiety it’s your body getting used to it and it should calm down pretty quick. I know it worked so well for me at the start I’m praying it helps you soon x

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

This is the 3rd time trying mirtazapine I only managed to stay on it for 6 weeks last time ..for same strange reason After the 4th week I can’t stop crying and feeling very low .. do you think I should give it a little Longer and push through the worse part ? Maybe if had some benzo I will manage to get through it !, how long dit it taken you for feeling better ?

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I think If after 6 weeks you saw no improvement it may not be the right meds for you? I wish you could have benzos to help you while you get the correct meds I would definitely phone gp in morning and stress how much you are suffering and you have tried the mirtazapine and got not one moments relief. I am sure you can buy promethazine in a chemist but at a lower dose? I’ve not tried it as yet so unsure if it helps but my gp has prescribed me the 25mg and said it stops the anxious stomach and calms you?

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Oh Lizzie I already tried that for few days and didn’t help at all 😢

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Same days I fell like drinking alcohol, but I know that is not good idea other .it can only make the problems %worse..btw I’m not a drinker lol

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I am the exact same!! Don’t drink maybe we should lol I know it’s frustrating we will laugh about this one day hopefully soon x

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Please lord allow us 🙏🏼we sure deserve a big laughter and a large glass of champagne or perhaps a magnum bottle 🥂

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

😂 yes!! I would be afraid I wouldn’t stop if I started 🤦🏻‍♀️ society would be in danger lol it will get better for us x

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Good morning Lizzie hope and praying that you feeling ok today.🙏🏼.. I had another terrible night sleep and feeling very Emotional today..but I guess that is normal, called my doctor this morning but she was not very helpful..she told me to take some propranolol but she knows that don’t really help me as have tried it before 😡after a long and wasted phone conversation she agreed to let me have 7 diazepam 2mg I guess is better than nothing .. I think the problem I have with mirtazapine is that it for sure makes me fell more depressed and that is the reason I stop taking it .all though it helps the anxiety a little bit .. is a no a winning game for me 😔 wish you and you family lovely a Christmas and a happier and a good health for the new year ... best wishes Bela

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

Hi Bela, it’s been a hectic day for me also ☹️ I’ve had to take diazepam to try calm down. I’m sorry you are going through this also, the diazepam should at least take the edge off things? 7 Jeezo that will last 2 bad days if that! Are u still the same? X

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

I fell a bit better this afternoon thank you , trying Very hard to keep a smile on my face and dance to the music .. lol ..let’s be positive 💫.tomorrow is going to be lovely day for both of us and our precious families..💫💫💫💫💫💫🥂

[Lizziedee in reply to Bela64]

I’m glad you have a little relief and pray that we all wake tomorrow with no anxiety and have a lovely peaceful day🥰

[Bela64 in reply to Lizziedee]

Thank you Lizzie and I wish the same for you 🌈💫💐🥰

[Charl- in reply to Bela64]

Hi you 2,sorry for jumping on days later after this. I was just reading through tour conversation and hope I can shed some light.

The mirtazapine is a wonderful useful drug I have been on it 2 years, just recently upped my dose to 22.5mg (I'm at this dose because 30 was too much)

When I first started I was on 15mg for the year, then I cut it down to 7.5mg and was on that for a year, only in the last 4 weeks have I upped it due to the anxiety I was suffering with lockdown etc.

They do initially have a 6-8 week settling in phase, and when upped again, you have the settling in phase again.

I think for Bela, her issue is that shes consciously letting the anxiety take over and has on her mind that nothing works. I don't mean to sound nasty with this, but you need to turn your thinking around. When my anxiety increased a few weeks ago, I too thought the mirt had stopped working but I increased my dose, had still some anxiety but now in a better place.

You need to try and accept that you'll always have anxiety but you need to have the will to let the mirt work. I've read so many success stories for this med, you need to turn your thoughts into hopeful ones and one day you will see the sun again. I hope this helps, both of you are more than welcome to message me if you'd like xx

[Lizziedee in reply to Charl-]

Thankyou, I think the higher dose is starting to take effect a little? I will continue with it as it’s only been 3/4 weeks at 45mg I’m definitely not as bad as I was and haven’t had to take the promethazine. I appreciate the feedback x

[Charl- in reply to Lizziedee]

No problem, and from 15 to 45 is a bug jump. But obviously by no means am I a doctor. But going on the reviews and also different forums, people have been on it for up to 10 years with no issues. It seems to be one of the best most tolerable anti ds with a wide range of effects to help ailments xx

[Lizziedee in reply to Charl-]

I was on 15mg to start and they were life changing for me, then a family problem triggered my anxiety so was put up to 30mg and a few weeks later 45mg. I was in a dark place and the anxiety was overwhelming! I’m definitely not as bad and hoping in another few weeks I will be better again. I really appreciate your help xx

[Charl- in reply to Lizziedee]

Not a problem. That's the best thing though is knowing your trigger and try to re direct it. Anxiety is bloody awful. I was initially put on them for depression after my nana died, then just stayed on them. But I think now it's in my best interests and families that I stay on them for the foreseeable. Whilst my depression hasn't returned its the anxiety that cripples me when it's bad. But we just have to take it one day at a time and know that it won't last forever. I always say we'd take meds for a heart defect so why not a brain issue xx

[Lizziedee in reply to Charl-]

Exactly! We give ourselves such a hard time but like you said if it was heart meds etc we wouldn’t think twice! I am the very same I’ll always be on medication but I’m absolutely fine about it, also it’s good we have insight into our mental health. I studied mental health nursing at uni and worked in secure units where so many patients couldn’t see what triggered their anxiety etc. I myself was like that for a number of years but now I know what triggers mine. This site has been such a godsend for me as we are all going through the same or similar. Is your anxiety as bad just now or a bit better? Xx

[Charl- in reply to Lizziedee]

That's good, do you still work in that sector? I know alot of my triggers but this time around I think it's just with all the lockdowns and tiers etc.My anxiety is lessening day by day, I'm trying not to feed it which is the key. I rarely come on here but every now and then I'll have read through, and just happened to stumble onto yours xx

[Lizziedee in reply to Charl-]

I left mental health nursing just in my final year due to my baby daughter passing away, also the course became less person centred and more academic. While I understand the need for the academic side I felt it was no longer for me. I’m glad it’s easing for you and hope it continues until you have anxiety free years. This pandemic is so hard it’s worrying. Xxx

[Charl- in reply to Lizziedee]

Aw sorry to hear that. Yeh thats it, you've got to do what is right.It sure is, but we'll get out of it now there's the vaccines. Fingers crossed, and for you to xx

[Bela64 in reply to Charl-]

Hi Charl i do agree with you a bit, but the problem with me is that I do give the medication a time to work.but for some reasons is when I get to about 5-6 weeks I do feel worse,and that is normally the time you supposed to feel better isn’t!? Is almost like my brain those not like the medication.I don’t know way this happens..but I’m tired and feeling very depressed with it all 😔if have any advise how to over come this problem please share with me ..thank you Bela x

[Charl- in reply to Bela64]

Yes it's strange, you are supposed to notice a difference. Have you tried combinations of 2 together?Unfortunately my advice would be useless as I can't even take my own advice right now. Anxiety is gripping me tremendously x

[Bela64 in reply to Charl-]

Oh Bless you .. so Sorry to hear that you are strangling at mo .. .anxiety is the Devil 😡 ..wish you better soon 🙏🏽

[Charl- in reply to Bela64]

It is but we must remember it is only temporary. We can do this 💪🏼 x

[Bela64 in reply to Charl-]

Yes we sure can 💪🏻💪🏻X keep positive and I will do the same 🌈💫x

[Charl- in reply to Bela64]

Positivity all around. You can both message me any time you need to talk x

[Bela64 in reply to Charl-]

Thank you charl ⭐️and the same goes for you ok ..hope you feeling a bit better know!?

[Charl- in reply to Bela64]

I am feeling ever so slightly better. I think it's the side effects of upping my tablets. How are you? X

[Bela64 in reply to Charl-]

Im good thank you , anxiety is having a break today . I’m feeling much calmer 🙏🏼Amen ..I’m glad you are feeling a bit better hopefully the medication will kick in soon for you and me 🤞🏻Have a lovely evening..x

[Charl- in reply to Bela64]

That's good, hopefully it's a sign of things to come. Keep trying to distract yourself away from it and let it float away one it's own. X

[Angelsfeather]

Lizziedee, Could I please ask you how you weaned yourself off Paroxetine when you started on Mirtazapine.

Did you take both at the he same time to start with?

I’ve been on 20mg of Paroxatine for the last 25 years and never succeeded in getting off it.

My GP is now suggesting the change as Paroxetine isn’t working as well as it used to and I’m having problems sleeping at night.

Any help or advice would be appreciated.

[Lizziedee in reply to Angelsfeather]

Hi, it was easy from 20mg my gp told me to stop taking it for 3 days, I used to take mine around 5pm. Then on the 3rd night I was to start the mirtazapine, I had no withdrawls at all and when I started the new medication on the 3rd night I slept right through the night and felt better from the next morning. I hope this happens with you, paroxetine were great for me when they worked. I hope this helps.

[Angelsfeather in reply to Lizziedee]

Thanks very much Lizziedee. I hope you have a great Christmas and a happy and healthy 2021. 🥰

[Lizziedee in reply to Angelsfeather]

Same to you 🥰

[MJD-]

Mirtazapine was far too sedating for me and can cause weight gain. If Anxiety is your prominent condition which has in turn caused depression. After advice and treatment approved by my psychiatrist I’ve found for many anxiety disorders especially social ones or anxiety that causes a lot of stress, panic and restlessness or insomnia. For me personally the following treatments have been either effective or ineffective. (SIDE NOTE; the following notes are personal to myself and I do not have medical qualifications I only offer personal opinion and treatment advice I’ve personally had under qualified clinical care and close monitorisation, in tune with my personal medical history) firstly Diazepam or any benzodiazepines are not a good idea as although very effective in the short term are one of the worst prescribed medications you can take due to the fact that not only does you body quickly adjust and get use to these meaning larger and larger doses are needed to have the same effect untill eventually they lose their effectiveness altogether. Tapering off a long term prescription of benzodiazepines is extremely painful and physically dangerous and will usually result in, increased anxiety and depression. If beta blockers don’t help which they usually don’t as they only deal with physical symptoms. Any sleeping tablets like temazepam or zopiclone carry with them the same dangers of benzodiazepines in the long term. Buspirone, which is a fairly new medication and some NHS doctors will be unfamiliar with and therefore hesitant to prescribe. As It can interact with some anti depressants putting you at a higher risk of serotonin syndrome which although very rare can be deadly if you are not monitored closely or aware of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome. I personally have never used this medication but studies have shown it to be effective for mild anxiety disorders but there is not enough evidence yet to suggest whether it can be taken long term and whether it will cause dependency issues. Also it’s supposedly ineffective if you’ve previously taken a benzodiazepine as these are much stronger sedatives. Antihistamines can be very effective but can come with some unappealing side effects, NHS GPs also tend to not prescribe these any more as you can actually but OTC without a prescription. They can be great for insomnia and mild anxiety depending on which antihistamine you are taking, some tend to block dopamine which is good for anxiety disorders and are good for anti nausea relief which is quite common in a lot of anti depressants during titration of dose. Long term use however has limited research. They can make you very drowsy the next day. An alternative is Cyclizine and in my experience is great for any nausea but is also good for insomnia and doesn’t cause as much drowsiness as other antihistamines or antioxidants. For serious anxiety disorders including insomnia and depression symptoms, in my opinion after trying many different medications and consulting with my psychiatrist who isn’t NHS appointed although I believe are available on the NHS is fluoxetine Max dose of 60mg This is the most popular antidepressant and doesn’t have many negative side effects like many others. It is also great for augmentation therapy as it doesn’t interact with other medications so much and can be combined with numerous different medications. I’ve found the only really effective medication for long term anxiety disorders are an antidepressant combined with either another antidepressant like mirtazapine or what I found for myself was even better if you are hesitant to take medications that make you drowsy or cause weight gain. Fluoxetine augmented with an antipsychotic has been rather effective especially the newer anti psychotics of which in low doses are less likely to cause difficult side effects. Quentipine is great for insomnia and occasional sedation but doesn’t do a lot for long term anxiety or depression. But when combined with or replaced with safely another antipsychotic like Ariprazole another newer anti psychotic and advised by my psychiatrist is one of the few antipsychotics to cause weight gain and can after a few weeks help with symptoms of anxiety and depression and can be effective for peronality disorders, bipolar disorder and other psychotic disorders. It is less sedating than a lot of other medications and also helps with severe long term anxiety and depression symptoms that have otherwise been refractory towards first, second of third line treatments. It will however cause irritability initially including increased anxiety and insomnia but if combined with quentapine and the addition of, or instead of quentipine a shot term diazepam, temazepam or zopiclone prescribition to ease the side effects of initial titration especially those of irritability and insomnia. In conclusion my preferred pharmaceutical treatment for long term anxiety disorders including depression and possible personality or mood disorders. Which have been effective for me after years of various other treatments and medications that have relatively no effect. Augmentation therapy has helped a lot of symptoms, based on fluoxetine Max dosage augmented with mirtazapine (if you are okay with some of the side effects and sedation of mirtazapine, which for me were quite awful.to which I prefer the augmentation of fluoxetine with certain low dose anti psychotics. But other combinations of antidepressants can be effective. Also if you are not keen on antipsychotic due to their sometimes unwanted and stronger symptoms than antidepressants. In my experience combining one or two antipsychotic medications has been effective such as aripiprazole starting at as low a dose as possible 5mg in the morning and increased if necessary. Also adding quentapine 50mg at night to ease some of the initial side effects especially insomnia which is usually a side effect of a large percentage of mental health medications ranging from antidepressants, benzodiazepines and anti psychotics or worsened symptoms of an existing sleep disorder which I’ve found to be agitated by fluoxetine and certain antipsychotics including Ariprazole although Stil my preferred augmentation, starting at the lowest dose of 5mg which in my experience and as advised by my psychiatrist is one of the few antipsychotics to have less unwanted side effects especially weight gain and sedation but can be effective in treating severe anxiety, depression, mood or personality disorders. It can begin to work after two weeks but for most it is initially difficult to adjust to but the addition of a short term diazepam, zopiclone or Clonazepam prescription eases the initial side effects.. Although most GPS are not authorised or comfortable with augmenting this many medications which can only be issued by a psychiatrist. Some of the more experienced GP’s may approve the addition of a low dose antipsychotic and short term sedative but are usually unlikely to have the authority to prescribe multiple complex medication combinations which can only be prescribed by a qualified psychiatrist and occasionally authorised specialist prescibeing clinicians but their treatments are limited compared to that of a psychiatrist as they have a lot more knowledge and authority to treat mental health disorders effectively. If you rely solely on the NHS and GP’s there is usually a very long waiting period for most mental health services. Private psychiatrists and GP’s although costly are usually readily available and are not restricted to NHS policy and prescribing guidelines which can tend to be outdated and focused more on cost rather than more modern effective treatments and medications. Although you can, rather than incurring costly private prescriptions and branded medication costs which can be extravagant. Sometimes NHS GPs will allow the transfer of diagnosed conditions and medication treatment plans from private care, and will agree to take over treatment. this will vary depending on GP local practice policy for winch many don’t support augmented or off label medications due to there risks, cost and insurance coverage. Your relationship with and the experience of your NHS GP and there willingness to take over treatment. they must of course still adhere to NHS prescbing policy and allowed medications. Typically many of the newly researched and developed mental health medications are not authorised for use in NHS care for long periods of time usually due to their longer research and affordability policy’s. some medications may have some conflicting efficacy and as they are legally bound to strict duty of care rules which some medications or treatments are considered too risky in regards to patient care and overall efficiency. Only if strict guidelines of effective and safe treatment are proven and advised by NICE research and supported by the GMC. NHS funded trials and research can start which can be a lot slower than the private sector. But once shown necessary and effective are quickly authorised in NHS treatments. It’s best to speak to your Psychiatrist beforehand as they will know exactly if certain treatments are authorised in NHS care. What’s vital to understand before starting any treatment is that medication is not a cure and is not usually effective treatment if not combined with other therapeutic treatments for example; talking therapy, CBT or situational therapy.

[Lizziedee in reply to MJD-]

Thank you very much for your reply, really appreciate the advise and experiences. I never took the promethazine as I have started walking every morning (minimum 2 miles a day) and take a multivitamin and a B12 every morning which I feel so help. I have been prescribed quitiapine 25mg which I am starting in the next couple of days, I don’t take any benzodiazepines as I ended up addicted to dihydracodeine (3 years clean) but that was a horrible experience and now I am very cautious about certain medications. I sleep really well and am never groggy with the mirtazapine so my gp has advised me to keep on with it. I was unsure about the quitiapine but a family member is on it and really says it helps? I can not tell you what your message means to me thank you very much and I hope you are doing well. X

[MJD- in reply to Lizziedee]

Super! For me Quentipipine at a low dose is a great alternative to benzodiazepines or sleeping tablets as it’s just as effective with regards to sedation and insomnia but doesn’t usually help anxiety symptoms short or long term. My psychiatrist advised me to concubine it with Ariprazole as apparently this is one of the few antipsychotics that aids anxiety symptoms after two or three weeks of taking and at low doses has fewer side effects and the preferred choice for general and social anxiety disorders. Initially though she warned that getting started and titrating the most effective dose can cause quite strong side effects in the first two weeks especially agitation, increased anxiety and insomnia. But you should be offered a short term prescription of diazepam or preferably something not so risky regarding dependency I’ve found taking with Quentipine eases adjustment symptoms or mirtazapine 15mg can be very sedating almost immediately. Buspirone is another option but I have never taken it so I can’t say for certain.

[MJD-]

Haven’t tried it personally but have been on Cyclicine which is very similar and preferred if you want a less drowsy antihistamine as Mirtazapine can may you feel pretty drowsy yes? At least it did when I took it. Cyclizine in great for any nausea and does aid any sleep problems if taken before bed, with the added bonus you shouldn’t feel any effects the next morning. 50mg before bed usually works great. But ideally in my opinion the best aid to anxiety during titration of dose is augmenting a short term benzodiazepine preferably Clonazepam. Or a sleeping agent like Zopiclone or temazepam. I’ve found the antipsychotic Quentpipine at a very low dose is very effective such as 50mg a day, but your GP may be weary or not authorised to prescribe as its usually approved by a psychiatrist.

[Behappy64]

I got percribe these to and Google it big mistake but I had to take one in the end and was fine and did sleep for about 7 hours x bjt5do get percribe diazpan 2 mg as well for when Im really bad also brintellix 10.mg a day it's so horrible when you feel like i do and you try to be happy in front of people