Posted by SLS on September 30, 2006, at 10:27:59
In reply to Re: Returning to antidepressants? Above for » Philip N., posted by jules354 on September 29, 2006, at 23:23:36
> p.s.: it's pretty clear to me based on everybody's experiences on this board and in conversation with other people that discontinuation syndrome can definitely last a lot longer than the doctors say it should.
Yes. But for how long do you think a withdrawal rebound depression might last? And, should it get worse over the course of months instead of getting better? And should there be a latency; that is, should it appear some months after discontinuation rather than immediately? Those are the questions that are salient in this particular case. As described by Philip, I believe that the answers to these questions indicate relapse.
I am not a pill pusher. In fact, as initially described, I would have questioned Philip's initial choice to use antidepressants. However, as later described, his history of adolescent depression and alcohol use would indicate a more biological MDD diagnosis with recurrent course for which his choice was probably the right one. I can't predict the future, but I believe his experiment has already produced results that can now be interpreted. I feel giving the experiment more time will not change the results. I could be wrong, of course. Getting a second opinion at this juncture would be advisable if there is any doubt in his mind as to what to do. Delaying things at this point might lead to serious consequences. Decisions have to be made now. Get a second opinion now, try psychotherapy, try alternative biological treatments, or set a date by which you either feel better or begin drug treatment.
Thats what I think.
Sorry, Philip. I was talking about you in the third person instead of directly. If I were you, I would either go back on the drug that you were on last if you feel it worked 100%. If you don't think it worked 100%, and anxiety is a major part of your depression, I would then try either Effexor, Paxil, or Nardil. Was it Lexapro that you were on? Good drug. They are all good if they end up being a good match for your particular neurochemistry. Each is slightly different. That makes all the difference.
Good luck.
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:689668
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/wdrawl/20060809/msgs/690493.html