Posted by Mark H. on April 21, 2000, at 3:21:23
In reply to Pindolol For Anxiety and Depression, posted by gloria on April 20, 2000, at 20:26:19
> Does anyone augument their antidepressant with Pindolol?
Hi Gloria,
I do. One component of my depression seems to be an over-production of adrenalin. I take Pindolol to combat the effects of adrenalin and to potentiate Effexor (make less of it work like more). Please note, however, that my latest drug book recommends against using this combination for that reason. (See: Essential Guide to Prescription Drugs 2000, by Rybacki and James.)
I thought Pindolol might be contributing to my oversleeping and weight gain, so I stopped taking it for a couple of weeks. I simply got more agitated and the Effexor worked less well as an anti-depressant. I didn't lose any appetite or sleep less, so I went back on it.
It's great not to be whip-sawed by every emotional blip on the screen that used to dump an ounce of adrenalin into my bloodstream, keeping me awake half the night and throwing my back muscles into spasms.
I don't know if Pindolol changes blood flow for women in a way that affects sexual function, but Pindolol pretty effectively keeps me from getting or maintaining an erection. Add to that the erection and ejaculation inhibiting qualities of Effexor, and the combination is unpleasant in that way. Fortunately, taking a drug holiday (for half a day) and using Viagra restores capability and enjoyment for me (and my wife).
Beta blockers also limit your aerobic capacity, so it's not much fun to take them and go for a hike at high altitudes or a long bike ride. I've pooped out and had to lie down on the side of the freeway, which tends to freak people out even though I'm just trying to get my breath.
In the beginning, when my doc had me taking a whole tablet, I would get fairly severe arrithmias at night (too tired to look up the correct spelling, sorry). Cutting it in half cured that problem.
Pindolol, like all beta blockers, can contribute to depression in some people. Happily for me, a small amount counters the anxiety and depression-increasing effects of adrenalin while boosting the effectiveness of my anti-depressant.
Best wishes,
Mark H.
poster:Mark H.
thread:30764
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000420/msgs/30796.html