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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 3 of 3. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by bookgurl99 on February 27, 2002, at 11:19:32
I've been taking Serzone for nearly 2 years. While the drug cleared up a certain amount of fear and obsessiveness that struck me suddenly 2.5 years ago, I have a persistent depressed feeling.
Recently an attempt to lower Serzone while switching to Luvox was unsuccesful. I think some of the negative affects came from using 2 ad's at once.
Would anyone suggest a useful procedure for getting off one ssri and starting a new one, with the least distruption? I am in college and really can't afford to miss school due to side effects.
thanks,
Elisa
Posted by misty99 on February 27, 2002, at 15:37:06
In reply to Switching SSRI's, posted by bookgurl99 on February 27, 2002, at 11:19:32
Elisa,
As I always tell people, I am not a qualified medical professional so take that into consideration as you read what I am about to say.
By the way, have you talked to your doctor about your concerns and if so, what does he/she say?First of all, before I answer your questions about dosing, I just wanted to let you know that Serzone was my first antidepressant back in 96 and I have the same results as you did.
Ok, your dosing question - In a similar situation, when I switched from Zoloft, my psychiatrist very gradually reduced the Zoloft while very gradually adding in the Prozac. I didn't have any problems but my Zoloft dose was already pretty low.
What dosage of Serzone are you at now? I am wondering since you had problems, if maybe you still need to reduce the Serzone dosage down a little more before gradually adding in the Luvox?
Many months ago, a poster by the name of John L. suggested a great way to gradually reduce the dosage and keep the ride as smooth as possible. It was either last year or the year before so you might want to do a search of the archives. If I can find it, I'll let you know.
By the way, I will be taking Luvox also as I am enduring a washout period with St. Johns Wort. So I might be asking you some questions in the future:))
I am sure it's very hard being a college student and having to deal with the med situation. I am unemployed and having an unstable brain does not help matters.
Anyway, I hope this helps and good luck.
Misty
Posted by Bill L on February 28, 2002, at 9:00:59
In reply to Switching SSRI's, posted by bookgurl99 on February 27, 2002, at 11:19:32
Maybe you should keep using your current dose of Serzone until after your last final exam this semester. Right now, add in a small amount of an SSRI (such as Celexa, Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Luvox). You could gradually increase the SSRI dose until it makes you too tired. If it makes you tired at first, try taking it at night.
Of course you need to check with your doctor before making any changes.
This is the end of the thread.
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