Here is a quick post and I will be posting more this week. Three weeks ago I began being weaned on Paxil, an anti depressant that I had taken in the past without any problems. This time I had the most horrible side effects that I just thought I couldn't take it anymore. For 11 days I suffered through anxiety and panic attacks that lasted for close to 18 hours a day. I experienced total irrational thoughts and fears and I spent the majority of my time on the couch trying to sleep, trying to force myself to think rationally and basically just gripped in fear. My husband took time off from work to be with me during that time and the wonderful ladies from my church brought food to our home.
Finally on the 11th day, a Saturday, I called my doctor and told him I just couldn't go on - not meaning I was going to kill myself - I just couldn't handle the stress of the side effects. He immediately consulted with the Psychiatrist on call and I was taken off Paxil, given Valium and started on a different anti-depressant, Celexa. Within 12 hours I was feeling wonderful and able to cope and actually feel happy again.
The best part was that the Celexa kicked in, without any side effects, the day I became a grandma - on February 27th.
As I write this I am thinking of one word "Chemistry." Yep, Chemistry. That is what it is all about when it comes to our body and prescription medications. The Celexa is working without my feeling sleepy - I am focused and while not euphoric, I am just plain happy and blessed and truly feel like I feel during the warm sunny summer months.
In the meantime I am loving my grandson and have enjoyed entering the life of grandparenthood.
3 comments:
My mother-in-law has been trying to come off Paxil for many years. They switched her to Valium and is trying to come off that now. Those drugs are a bit scary. I hope this one is the answer for you!
Goodness, you have been through the mill, haven't you?
I'm so pleased you've found the right combination of medication and of course, the very best medication will be your new Grandson!
Take care of yourself.
I am on Welbutrin and it seems to be okay. I've had no side effects. I am so sorry you went through that. And you are so correct when you mention chemistry. Each of us is different and have different reactions, good and/or bad, to medications. Thank you for your blog. I am trying to get better at reading and commenting on the blogs I follow. Trying to create that balance in life is the hardest thing I think! I'm glad you are feeling better!
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