Posted by Mark H. on October 4, 2001, at 21:26:50
In reply to ULTRAM for 2 years in high doses, is this BAD???, posted by pussycat on October 3, 2001, at 21:40:11
Hi P.,
Have you already tried clonazepam, which would be my first choice for restless leg syndrome? I take 1/2 tablet at night (0.25mg), and it helps a great deal. If I take a whole tablet, I find it difficult to get up in the morning.
Fairly high doses of Ultram (e.g., 1 tablet 3 x a day) are used adjunctively to treat refractive depression in those whose mood improves on Ultram. I have not heard of any side effects from long term use, but others here may be better able to answer that part of your question.
With almost all analgesics, however, you want to watch for signs of bruising and internal bleeding.
From my experience, clonazepam is both effective and seemingly benign with long-term use.
Just a couple of other thoughts on RLS: it's extremely important not to drink ANY caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas, etc.) during the day. Likewise, avoid chocolate and other stimulants (ephedra) and even vitamin supplements in the evening. Maintain a regular, adequate sleep schedule -- lack of sleep will tend to increase leg restlessness the next night. Finally, don't watch stressful news or action TV before going to bed. RLS is made worse by inner (adrenaline) as well as outer stimulants.
My RLS and PLMD are also made worse if I take my Effexor too late in the day (normally I take it after breakfast). The Ritalin I take, unlike caffeine, does not seem to increase my RLS.
Please let us know when you find something that works well for you.
Best wishes,
Mark H.
poster:Mark H.
thread:80209
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010927/msgs/80302.html