I've seen a few older posts on this ... but wondering if anyone has any experience or knowledge about sulfasalazine and depression?
I have a history of depression / anxiety, but it's usually controlled okay. But I've been really struggling the last couple of months, with pretty intense paranoia and thoughts about dying. I saw the RA nurse this week and didn't want to admit how bad I've been feeling. I just said I'd had a low mood for the past few months, she was checking to see if hydroxychloroquine had any emotional effects as she didn't think it did but she knew sulfasalazine did.
But I wasn't depressed like I am now when I started hydroxychloroquine last year. It made me realise things have only got really bad since I started sulfasalazine. I've also really struggled with cognitive things. she said she'd see me in 6 weeks rather than 12, but if sulfasalazine is causing this I just want to stop it now. I can't keep having to work so hard to rationalise staying alive!
I've not noticed any improvements in pain/stiffness, but I understand it can take a while.
I don't understand the pharmacology of it though, how an RA drug can affect mood ...
Anyway, interested to know if anyone else has had psychological effects from this med.
Hello Polly. When I went on Sulfa my doctor asked me if I ever suffered from depression. I told him I have never suffered from depression. I understand it is a rare side effect.
I am on hydroxy and sulfa. For the first few weeks on Hydroxy I was having violent dreams. They have subsided now.
I think you should notify your doctor that you are getting depressed. You shouldn't have to suffer emotionally. There are other drugs out there. Pleases don't suffer.
Take care
Sue