Posted by cquincy on October 9, 2001, at 17:00:31
In reply to Re: Is Real Prozac Better Than Generic? » JohnL, posted by jane d on September 7, 2001, at 22:41:43
After one month on generic Prozac, I just today had my prescription changed back to the original -and then did an Internet search to see if there was anyting to back up my gut (head?) feeling.
For what it's worth, my pharmacist told me that it probably was not psychological on my part (nor do I think that the events of September 11 play a part, although I've thought about that). She said that sometimes people who start with the original drug have more trouble adjusting to the generic version, while people who start with generics generally have an easier time. While she noted that the drug is the same, companies use different inert substances that can have an effect. As an example, she said that if the "gel" used for the capsule is different, it could dissolve faster, therefore getting the drug into one's system faster ... but at the same time, wearing off faster. Just an example.
Still, the first week I was on the generic drug, I experienced most of the side effects of Prozac, yet I NEVER experienced any side effects with the original (I've been taking it for four years). So while four weeks may not be enough time for the generic, I went back to the orginal today because I'm convinced there is a difference.
Finally, my pharmacist said I might be able to get some insurance relief if my doctor indicates that I need the "original drug as prescribed."
> > I guess we might never know for sure. All I do know for sure is that I was getting worse on generic, and I am now almost fully recovered from that on authentic. Is it my imagination? Is it a psychological deception? Dunno. I do know I will stay with authentic just to be sure. I was scared to death when I started to deteriorate, and I don't want to go there again. The only thing that had changed was that I had been given generic instead of authentic. At this point I can find no other explanation.
> > John
>
> Coincidence? It does happen and can totally wreck your personal drug trials. If you ever do have someone make the switch for you let us know how it works out but I agree with you about risking relapse: I wouldn't want to go there just to satisfy my curiousity.
> Jane
poster:cquincy
thread:77951
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20011007/msgs/80784.html