Pets play a major and significant role in our lives. Many studies have indicated that having a pet in the home is particularly good for elderly people that live alone. They become a part of our family. Our Bassett Hound, named of course, Sigmund (but we called him Siggie,) died […]
Depression
25 posts
Question: Now that Pristiq has been out for awhile, what has been the clinical response with your patients compared with the Effexor XR formulation? Rumors have said it is more tolerable and less sexual side effects, although I have tried some samples, and it doesn’t seem to be as calming […]
In December 2006 I participated in a survey of psychiatrists by a pharmaceutical company. They asked me if I could have only five medications to prescribe which ones would I choose? Since I have a cash only practice I have to go with the most effective medications long term. Most […]
Depression runs in my family and I’ve been on the same medicine for a while with no episodes of depression. About two weeks ago I woke up feeling not myself and contributed it to getting my period on top of coming down with a respiratory infection. Still not feeling well […]
Meridia (sibutramine) is FDA approved for weight loss. It combines the effects of antidepressants like Effexor (at doses of 225mg or higher) or Cymbalta with dopamine effects like stimulants. One possible side effect is increased blood pressure. Years ago I tried Meridia for several patients and most of them didn’t like it […]
I am now completely against birth control pills. I’m also against hormone replacement with oral estradiol. Estradiol (in every birth control pill) taken by mouth goes through the liver and causes problems with thyroid, testosterone, and the most effective form of estrogen. In anyone with a history of depression and/or […]
The following question addresses specific aspects of this patients case. However, the underlying principle is an important aspect of effective medication management. What are treatment options when a single medication, even at high doses, is not adequate? Question: Hello, I am mostly looking for a second opinion, and this website […]
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder responds to medications that enhance serotonin levels. It can be inferred that the cause relates to dropping serotonin levels as estrogen levels fall (since estrogen increases serotonin). Lowering serotonin levels only causes mood symptoms in women who have a genetic predisposition or previous history of depression. Unlike […]
WELLBUTRIN SR and XL (Bupropion) Wellbutrin SR comes in two strengths: 100mg blue tablets and 150mg purple tablets. Wellbutrin XL comes in 150mg and 300mg tablets. Wellbutrin enhances the brain’s natural stimulants, dopamine and norepinephrine. These help increase mental energy and motivation/interest. Wellbutrin also helps to control addictions, increase sexual […]
EFFEXOR XR (Venlafaxine) EFFEXOR XR (Venlafaxine) is a slow release capsule and comes in 37.5, 75, and 150mg sizes. It is a broad spectrum medication, which means it works by blocking reuptake of Serotonin (at 37.5 to 75mg) and norepinephrine (at 150mg+). Serotonin and norephinephrine are the two primary stress neuromodulators. […]