AEDs and antidepressants

[Huggybear123]

I’m aware that many Anti Epileptic Drugs are sedatives and can cause horrid side effects to some of us, especially when we take them with other medication. Lots of Love to those that are going through that right now❤️🤗🙏🤞

I’m wondering if anyone has ever taken mirtazapine or sertraline(anti depressants) with their AEDs? Everyone’s side effects are different but it’s good to hear others opinions on the medication.

I am terrified of going on anti depressants as I’m scared of how my body will react to it.

[Ahsar]

Hi

I recently started on sertraline. My specialist nurse and neurologist said most SSRIs like sertraline are safe for people with epilepsy. My doctor at first refused to prescribe me any (I was warned this might happen as doctors are often reluctant to prescribe them to people with epilepsy apparently!) After going back again clearly still not coping and with a letter from the specialists saying they reccomend I try them I was prescribed sertraline. This followed 18 months of hyper anxiety and was a last resort.

At first and for around a week and a half I had a slightly dodgy stomach and felt waves of nausea for a few hours after taking them- the first day was pretty bad but it got significantly better quickly and now isnt a problem. I’m on week 5 snd feel far calmer and positive. I still have anxious thoughts occasionally but find I cam shrug things off when I couldnt before. Its still early days. For me personslly putting up with the side affects are worth it to hopefully feel far happier and get on with life normally again. I’m probably going to be on them for the next 12 months. I want my life back on track and to not be stricken with anxiety and negativity. They shouldnt be a forever thing, although I have a friend with a panic disorder who has been on them for years.

Best of luck

[Huggybear123 in reply to Ahsar]

@ahsar Good to know that you’ve experienced positive results and hope this continues to improve for you 👏👍🙌🤞😊

It could possibly be a good idea to maybe talk to your nurse or consultant about any side effects that you may be concerned about 🤷‍♀️

We must remember that medication is there to help us and if the side effects get too much to handle, we may end up doing more damage instead of mending

All the best

[GillSans]

Yes, I've been on Sertraline, but complicated by multiple concussions, didn't suit me at all.

Took a long time, with consultations, now I'm on Vortioxetine, but side effects include dizziness, argh!

But my other half says my mood has definitely improved.

Swings and roundabouts.