Meds

[KNW11]

Okay is there anyone out there that is like me? I have high anxiety, but I’m terrified to take my medications. I was in Wellbutrin all was well. Then they changed me to cymbalta now I’m being changed to Effexor. I am terrified of taking anti depressants... I read the reviews, although I know everyone isn’t the same. I heard the side effects are horrible, and coming off them is a nightmare! Anyone else scared of there antidepressants... I just wanna be normal without the medications. Also to add I suffer from occtical neuralgia and possible fibromyalgia so the antidepressants have a lot to do with the nerve pain I experience. I also do meditation, yoga and use CBD gummies for a more calm mood.

[Clarrisa]

Yes, I too am fearful of medications. I took a pharmacogenomic test that even lists the antidepressants I might have problems with, but that hasn’t reduced my fears. I guess because my primary doctor would not even look at the results. The pharmacist thought it was helpful however.

I think with all this Coronavirus distancing its become difficult to escape taking something. You sound like you are really doing a lot to lessen your anxiety. I have made progress in sleeping & eating better. My exercise has been mostly limited to walking though. I may have to breakdown soon I take something for my anxiety. I identify with your feelings about medications.

[Nikkiy in reply to Clarrisa]

Hi i have just ordered a test to find correct meds for me. I have been on tons and had bad reactions. How many meds are down that agree with you.

[Clarrisa in reply to Nikkiy]

My genotype predicts an 11% increase in the risk of not responding to citalopram. My brother a psychologist says this is low. I stopped that medication due to hot flashes though. I have a normal likelihood of improvement with risperidone but have no need for it.

I found it helpful to work with a pharmacist who can help tell you what active & inactive metabolites the drug you are interested in converts to. If you have increased or decreased genotype or phenotype activity it will help guide you (& Pharmacist) whether or not to look out for toxicity or lack of efficacy with drug you are considering. I have normal risks, negative risks, increased risks etc. on numerous geno/pheno types.

I didn’t pay extra for the company consultation hoping my doctor would help out but he didn’t. So when I get a prescription I rely on the pharmacist for some help. It gets interesting because specific foods can also increase levels of the various components that are tested. That maybe why my doctor threw up his hands.

The testing did provide valuable guidance on breast cancer prevention medications, & other important information such as I have a increased risk of simvastatin-induced myopathy. I hope you find the testing worth your while too.

[FlamingoSiren]

I feared Effexor and cymbalta (side effects). Tried both and my anxiety got worse. Finally decided to try lexapro. And wow, I am fine now. I also tried clonidine at night and it is a life saver. Don’t be afraid of meds- it’s just the anxiety talking.

God bless.

[FearIsALiar]

How is Effexor working for u?