Psychotropic medication discussion thread

James Fowler3

Do you see a private doctor, and if so, where? I mean, when you mentioned you were waiting for them to get back from vacation? How much do you usually pay per session? Are you actually happy with the care you're getting? I know this isn't strictly on-topic, but honestly, typing out long private messages on my iPhone is such a pain.

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James Fowler3 said:Well, since I assume they’re going to try to switch me over to Adderall, and I’ve heard some decent things about Paxil, I decided to do a little digging into the side effects just now... and honestly, I'm a bit spooked. Between the hallucinations, seizures, and depersonalization—which is the part that really gets under my skin—it makes one wonder if it's even worth the risk...

Unfortunately, you're spot on—there have been plenty of bad experiences with those antidepressants. But honestly? The worst part seems to be when people try to taper off them; that's the part that would truly terrify me.

James Fowler3 said:Well, considering the other things people list, this doesn't even seem like a major side effect... It happens quite often, really. I was prepared for it, although perhaps not quite so early in the process... but there it is.

What I am truly wondering about is whether every single antidepressant poses a threat to someone prone to seizures... or if it's just certain specific ones... I recall reading something about it once, but the details escape me now...

Well, look, if someone is taking high doses of these medications, there is definitely an increased risk of having a seizure. It isn't a guarantee, but... you know how it goes.
That’s why after being on them for a long time, doctors often prescribe anti-epileptic drugs as well.
But again, this really only applies if you're on much higher doses than what is considered standard.
For example... fadedbear92 is on 25 mg of Q-pina (I think?), which is objectively a tiny dose. Meanwhile, I'm taking 200 mg, which is actually a significant amount! That's why my doctor put me on a low dose of Lamictal—just 25 mg—to prevent any major issues from happening...

In your case, James Fowler3... you probably don't need to worry about seizures at all. It’s nothing personal against your biology...

James Fowler3 said:Well, since I assume they’re going to try to switch me over to Adderall, and I’ve heard some decent things about Paxil, I decided to do a little digging into the side effects just now... and honestly, I'm a bit spooked. Between the hallucinations, seizures, and depersonalization—which is the part that really gets under my skin—it makes one wonder if it's even worth the risk...

You really ought to trust your doctor's recommendation. When it comes to antidepressants, there isn't a universal rule; for instance, Lexapro worked perfectly for me on the first try, even though mistyjackal842 apparently had a hard time with it. Aside from some nausea, dizziness, and sleepiness, I didn't experience anything else, and I've been on it for six years now. It is definitely time for you to transition to an antidepressant, but the key is how you start: regardless of which medication you are prescribed, you should take just a quarter of a pill for the first three days rather than jumping straight to a half or a full dose. After that, move to a half tablet for three days, then a half plus a quarter, and only then proceed to the full dose. Following this method keeps the side effects manageable and allows you to see if the drug actually suits you.
I've seen people on here who just popped a whole pill at once; honestly, man, of course you're going to end up with side effects that drive you insane. 😁
And don't let the fear of seizures get to you—you're reading too much into everything right now and you're just going to scare yourself senseless. Just relax; it isn't nearly as catastrophic as it sounds.😉

mistyjackal842 said:James Fowler3

Do you see a private doctor, and if so, where? I mean, when you mentioned you were waiting for them to get back from vacation? How much do you usually pay per session? Are you actually happy with the care you're getting? I know this isn't strictly on-topic, but honestly, typing out long private messages on my iPhone is such a pain.

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mistyjackal842, you've completely lost the thread here. You're fixated on the idea of using Faverin as a sedative, but let's be clear: that isn't a sustainable solution for chronic insomnia. If Lexapro didn't work for you, you need to find an antidepressant that actually fits your chemistry—Zoloft is often quite effective, though everything is subjective. For the sleep issues, you really should discuss low-dose antipsychotics with your psychiatrist. Ask them about Quincy—which is less likely to cause weight gain—versus Vera, which tends to cause significant weight gain.

Just some Clonazepam for every kind of ache, even the ones in my soul 😁

She prescribed me 15 mg of Diazepam for my insomnia. I don't take it every single day, though—I really want to avoid building up a tolerance to it. As for anything else, I haven't taken anything because she just didn't mention it. It wasn't even that I was asking for Faverin; I just noticed it has a sedative effect and you take it at night, but I assume it helps lift your mood eventually. I don't think Zoloft would be right for me since it’s quite stimulating and usually taken in the morning. I actually knew a girl who took it around lunchtime, but she always seemed to be talking way too fast, like her words were tripping over each other. I suspect that might have been the Zoloft. I'm not sure what dose she was on, but she's doing great now. From what I can tell, she has a husband, a kid, her mom, and she even landed a job, even if it was through a connection. I'm honestly just happy she managed to get her life together. Maybe I'll end up there too, someday.

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I really wouldn't recommend taking antipsychotics just to deal with insomnia. I think a doctor actually posted about this on the forum before, mentioning how it isn't a good idea. He had gone through some heavy stuff too, losing his mother shortly before me, which I imagine hit him pretty hard.

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mistyjackal842 said:James Fowler3

Do you see a private doctor, and if so, where? I mean, when you mentioned you were waiting for them to get back from vacation? How much do you usually pay per session? Are you actually happy with the care you're getting? I know this isn't strictly on-topic, but honestly, typing out long private messages on my iPhone is such a pain.

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I have no intention of moving this to private messages... He is a neuropsychiatrist and he’s perfectly fine, really; he has this dry sense of humor that actually manages to make me laugh, which provides a certain level of encouragement when I need it most... It is just that his consultations are somewhat brief, and I find myself wishing he would elaborate more, as I would truly love to delve deeper into everything... 😛

redranger2 said:

I suppose one might attempt to discuss the nuances of Rejoylft, though I find myself wondering if anyone truly understands the complexities involved... It is a rather curious thing, isn't it? One moment you are navigating the mundane realities of daily life, and the next, you are contemplating the chemical inclinations of the mind... such a heavy thought for a Tuesday afternoon. says: Unfortunately, there have been quite a few negative accounts regarding that particular advertisement... you’re certainly not wrong there. But I suppose the most harrowing part was when people actually had to taper off of it; honestly, that is the prospect that fills me with the most dread...

You’re absolutely right; I’ve done my fair share of reading up on this too, and it seems like getting off it is an uphill battle no matter how you slice it... But honestly, whether you look at one study or another, the side effects always seem to follow the exact same pattern. And frankly, I'm a total coward when it comes to this kind of thing... God help me.

Kevin Nguyen3 said:Well, look, if someone is taking high doses of these medications, there is definitely an increased risk of having a seizure. It isn't a guarantee, but... you know how it goes.
That’s why after being on them for a long time, doctors often prescribe anti-epileptic drugs as well.
But again, this really only applies if you're on much higher doses than what is considered standard.
For example... fadedbear92 is on 25 mg of Q-pina (I think?), which is objectively a tiny dose. Meanwhile, I'm taking 200 mg, which is actually a significant amount! That's why my doctor put me on a low dose of Lamictal—just 25 mg—to prevent any major issues from happening...

In your case, James Fowler3... you probably don't need to worry about seizures at all. It’s nothing personal against your biology...

Well... then we have to consider the other possibilities... convulsions, hallucinations, depersonalization... 😕

redranger2 said:You really ought to trust your doctor's recommendation. When it comes to antidepressants, there isn't a universal rule; for instance, Lexapro worked perfectly for me on the first try, even though mistyjackal842 apparently had a hard time with it. Aside from some nausea, dizziness, and sleepiness, I didn't experience anything else, and I've been on it for six years now. It is definitely time for you to transition to an antidepressant, but the key is how you start: regardless of which medication you are prescribed, you should take just a quarter of a pill for the first three days rather than jumping straight to a half or a full dose. After that, move to a half tablet for three days, then a half plus a quarter, and only then proceed to the full dose. Following this method keeps the side effects manageable and allows you to see if the drug actually suits you.
I've seen people on here who just popped a whole pill at once; honestly, man, of course you're going to end up with side effects that drive you insane. 😁
And don't let the fear of seizures get to you—you're reading too much into everything right now and you're just going to scare yourself senseless. Just relax; it isn't nearly as catastrophic as it sounds.😉

Aha, I see. Well, I suppose I have to wait until the 25th since he's out on vacation... though, even if he weren't, I was already planning on seeking out a second neuropsychiatrist anyway, provided I can actually snag an appointment...
You probably missed my question regarding the actual difference in how antipsychotics versus antidepressants function when dealing with anxiety disorders—specifically panic attacks... I am aware that APs block dopamine while ADs manage serotonin levels, but why on earth would I need an AD specifically for this? What is the distinction... fine, I certainly wouldn't touch an AP again, but still...

James Fowler3 said:I have no intention of moving this to private messages... He is a neuropsychiatrist and he’s perfectly fine, really; he has this dry sense of humor that actually manages to make me laugh, which provides a certain level of encouragement when I need it most... It is just that his consultations are somewhat brief, and I find myself wishing he would elaborate more, as I would truly love to delve deeper into everything... 😛

redranger2 said:

I suppose one might attempt to discuss the nuances of Rejoylft, though I find myself wondering if anyone truly understands the complexities involved... It is a rather curious thing, isn't it? One moment you are navigating the mundane realities of daily life, and the next, you are contemplating the chemical inclinations of the mind... such a heavy thought for a Tuesday afternoon. says: Unfortunately, there have been quite a few negative accounts regarding that particular advertisement... you’re certainly not wrong there. But I suppose the most harrowing part was when people actually had to taper off of it; honestly, that is the prospect that fills me with the most dread...

You’re absolutely right; I’ve done my fair share of reading up on this too, and it seems like getting off it is an uphill battle no matter how you slice it... But honestly, whether you look at one study or another, the side effects always seem to follow the exact same pattern. And frankly, I'm a total coward when it comes to this kind of thing... God help me.

Well... then we have to consider the other possibilities... convulsions, hallucinations, depersonalization... 😕

Aha, I see. Well, I suppose I have to wait until the 25th since he's out on vacation... though, even if he weren't, I was already planning on seeking out a second neuropsychiatrist anyway, provided I can actually snag an appointment...
You probably missed my question regarding the actual difference in how antipsychotics versus antidepressants function when dealing with anxiety disorders—specifically panic attacks... I am aware that APs block dopamine while ADs manage serotonin levels, but why on earth would I need an AD specifically for this? What is the distinction... fine, I certainly wouldn't touch an AP again, but still...

Those are all potential side effects that—if they even happen at all—tend to pass quite quickly. Most of the time, people don't even realize it's happening.
So, we're talking one case out of a thousand, or maybe one in ten million.
And it isn't a guarantee; it’s just something recorded as a possible side effect.

Basically, there's nothing to worry about.

Using low doses of antipsychotics can really take the edge off that intense tension and anxiety when the standard anti-anxiety meds just aren't cutting it. Honestly, doctors these days seem way more likely to prescribe an antipsychotic than something like Clonazepam—which is such a solid broad-spectrum stabilizer, an anticonvulsant at high doses, and a killer anxiolytic at low ones. I think docs are just terrified of the dependency issues, which kind of means they pass up on a super fast, effective way to help people. Since antipsychotics tend to level you out without that heavy addiction risk, it’s easier for them to sleep at night knowing they aren't hooking someone, even if it might not be the most efficient way to help.
With antidepressants, you've gotta give it time. One morning you just wake up and suddenly everything feels... quiet. Normal. No more morning nausea, no more constant dread, just everything feeling a bit lighter.
As far as antidepressants go, Paxil and Lexapro are top-tier. I’ve tried both, and I actually stopped taking them after about a week because they helped so much. But, man, I still use Clonazepam from time to time—without it, the whole treatment plan wouldn't even make sense.
Taking small doses of an antidepressant combined with Clonazepam is basically the gold standard for that heavy tension that doesn't respond to Xanax or NYC-style stuff. Plus, since it has a long half-life, you still feel the effects the next day.
I wouldn't touch antipsychotics, though. Seriously, I wouldn't recommend them to anyone who isn't dealing with psychosis or similar disorders.
There's just too many side effects, and honestly, it doesn't do much for patients who are already struggling with depression and anxiety. Especially when every time they swallow a pill, they start obsessing over those pamphlets and worrying about what might happen to them.
A combo of an antidepressant and an anxiolytic is usually enough to pull anyone out of that lethargy, but that’s only like 20% of the battle. The rest? That’s always been on you, and it always will be. On the flip side, if someone is looking to just get totally sedated on antipsychotics or other stuff... well, that's the wrong way to go about it and it comes with consequences. Always pick the lesser of two evils and talk to your doctor. Don't just let them scribble a prescription and spend five minutes with you and call it a day.
If you aren't fighting for yourself, there isn't a pill in the world that's gonna save you.

Kevin Nguyen3 said:Those are all potential side effects that—if they even happen at all—tend to pass quite quickly. Most of the time, people don't even realize it's happening.
So, we're talking one case out of a thousand, or maybe one in ten million.
And it isn't a guarantee; it’s just something recorded as a possible side effect.

Basically, there's nothing to worry about.

Well, I suppose there are plenty of ways I might miss them... 😢
I'm just not entirely sure yet; I'll have to wait and see what my doctor tells me. Until then, I'll ask my Xanax provider—just as they suggested—and try to remain hopeful that I won't end up becoming dependent on it...
God, this anxiety is relentless... it truly just drains the life out of a person.

James Fowler3 said:I have no intention of moving this to private messages... He is a neuropsychiatrist and he’s perfectly fine, really; he has this dry sense of humor that actually manages to make me laugh, which provides a certain level of encouragement when I need it most... It is just that his consultations are somewhat brief, and I find myself wishing he would elaborate more, as I would truly love to delve deeper into everything... 😛

redranger2 said:

I suppose one might attempt to discuss the nuances of Rejoylft, though I find myself wondering if anyone truly understands the complexities involved... It is a rather curious thing, isn't it? One moment you are navigating the mundane realities of daily life, and the next, you are contemplating the chemical inclinations of the mind... such a heavy thought for a Tuesday afternoon. says: Unfortunately, there have been quite a few negative accounts regarding that particular advertisement... you’re certainly not wrong there. But I suppose the most harrowing part was when people actually had to taper off of it; honestly, that is the prospect that fills me with the most dread...

You’re absolutely right; I’ve done my fair share of reading up on this too, and it seems like getting off it is an uphill battle no matter how you slice it... But honestly, whether you look at one study or another, the side effects always seem to follow the exact same pattern. And frankly, I'm a total coward when it comes to this kind of thing... God help me.

Well... then we have to consider the other possibilities... convulsions, hallucinations, depersonalization... 😕

Aha, I see. Well, I suppose I have to wait until the 25th since he's out on vacation... though, even if he weren't, I was already planning on seeking out a second neuropsychiatrist anyway, provided I can actually snag an appointment...
You probably missed my question regarding the actual difference in how antipsychotics versus antidepressants function when dealing with anxiety disorders—specifically panic attacks... I am aware that APs block dopamine while ADs manage serotonin levels, but why on earth would I need an AD specifically for this? What is the distinction... fine, I certainly wouldn't touch an AP again, but still...

The difference is substantial. Antipsychotics block dopamine based on the medical assumption that a dopamine surplus is responsible for hallucinations, much like what occurs in schizophrenia. Doctors don't fully grasp the exact mechanism of how antipsychotics function; they know it inhibits dopamine production, but the precise pathway remains a mystery—it simply works.
That is why antipsychotics are prescribed for psychosis, and certain ones (like Vera or others) are exceptionally effective at treating stubborn insomnia, which is my particular struggle. When I lie down at night, my brain starts racing uncontrollably, completely wired, and only an antipsychotic can force it to settle down.😁 Some antipsychotics act on histamine receptors to induce sleepiness and facilitate falling asleep, much like Nozinan.

Antidepressants prevent the reuptake of serotonin, meaning the serotonin stays in the synapses rather than being reabsorbed, which creates a sense of relief and calm, heightens satisfaction, and mitigates panic attacks, depression, fear, and anxiety.

Roger Bennett62 said:Using low doses of antipsychotics can really take the edge off that intense tension and anxiety when the standard anti-anxiety meds just aren't cutting it. Honestly, doctors these days seem way more likely to prescribe an antipsychotic than something like Clonazepam—which is such a solid broad-spectrum stabilizer, an anticonvulsant at high doses, and a killer anxiolytic at low ones. I think docs are just terrified of the dependency issues, which kind of means they pass up on a super fast, effective way to help people. Since antipsychotics tend to level you out without that heavy addiction risk, it’s easier for them to sleep at night knowing they aren't hooking someone, even if it might not be the most efficient way to help.
With antidepressants, you've gotta give it time. One morning you just wake up and suddenly everything feels... quiet. Normal. No more morning nausea, no more constant dread, just everything feeling a bit lighter.
As far as antidepressants go, Paxil and Lexapro are top-tier. I’ve tried both, and I actually stopped taking them after about a week because they helped so much. But, man, I still use Clonazepam from time to time—without it, the whole treatment plan wouldn't even make sense.
Taking small doses of an antidepressant combined with Clonazepam is basically the gold standard for that heavy tension that doesn't respond to Xanax or NYC-style stuff. Plus, since it has a long half-life, you still feel the effects the next day.
I wouldn't touch antipsychotics, though. Seriously, I wouldn't recommend them to anyone who isn't dealing with psychosis or similar disorders.
There's just too many side effects, and honestly, it doesn't do much for patients who are already struggling with depression and anxiety. Especially when every time they swallow a pill, they start obsessing over those pamphlets and worrying about what might happen to them.
A combo of an antidepressant and an anxiolytic is usually enough to pull anyone out of that lethargy, but that’s only like 20% of the battle. The rest? That’s always been on you, and it always will be. On the flip side, if someone is looking to just get totally sedated on antipsychotics or other stuff... well, that's the wrong way to go about it and it comes with consequences. Always pick the lesser of two evils and talk to your doctor. Don't just let them scribble a prescription and spend five minutes with you and call it a day.
If you aren't fighting for yourself, there isn't a pill in the world that's gonna save you.

I have read similar things regarding Clonazepam, and similarly regarding antidepressants... naturally, one finds a litany of side effects listed everywhere, though it seems Eglonyl has perhaps the fewest, from what I can gather. But regardless, this particular side effect manifested in me, and I am thankful it wasn't anything more severe... I suppose I am simply sensitive, and one can only wonder what side effects other medications might provoke. If I had someone constantly by my side, perhaps it wouldn't matter, but being alone with two children... one must struggle through these side effects while remaining one hundred percent composed...

redranger2 said:The difference is substantial. Antipsychotics block dopamine based on the medical assumption that a dopamine surplus is responsible for hallucinations, much like what occurs in schizophrenia. Doctors don't fully grasp the exact mechanism of how antipsychotics function; they know it inhibits dopamine production, but the precise pathway remains a mystery—it simply works.
That is why antipsychotics are prescribed for psychosis, and certain ones (like Vera or others) are exceptionally effective at treating stubborn insomnia, which is my particular struggle. When I lie down at night, my brain starts racing uncontrollably, completely wired, and only an antipsychotic can force it to settle down.😁 Some antipsychotics act on histamine receptors to induce sleepiness and facilitate falling asleep, much like Nozinan.

Antidepressants prevent the reuptake of serotonin, meaning the serotonin stays in the synapses rather than being reabsorbed, which creates a sense of relief and calm, heightens satisfaction, and mitigates panic attacks, depression, fear, and anxiety.

Aha, thanks, dear. I honestly haven't the slightest clue why he chose an antipsychotic as the first line of defense. Insomnia isn't actually an issue for me; I simply mentioned to him that the somatic symptoms are absolutely killing me—that constant, nagging fear that I might just collapse because I feel so weak... perhaps that’s why he went that route. And, truth be told, I was having a panic attack right there in his office, though it felt slightly more manageable than usual... but still... 🤷

With AT&T, the side effects can be quite unpleasant, though they eventually pass. However, you have to keep in mind that during the initial phase, they tend to amplify your underlying symptoms, which can lead us all to panic. That’s likely why they include those warnings in the first place; we see a minor sensation, read the pamphlet, and then convince ourselves we’re experiencing every single one of the other twenty percent of potential issues mentioned.
Just imagine if a doctor prescribed Advil or Voltaren and warned you that there was a possibility of gastrointestinal bleeding. We would all be sitting at home obsessively reading the fine print and waiting for blood to appear. Honestly, I have never once felt the need to read the instructions on an over-the-counter painkiller.

I have a question for those who take Associated Press for insomnia. For me, it leaves me feeling completely incapacitated all day long, so I had to give up on it. Even half of a 25 mg dose was too much. I couldn't last more than three days living in that strange, detached headspace where I practically forget my own name and feel totally disconnected from everything around me. My question is: is it worth persevering through the fog, hoping it eventually fades? Personally, I am hesitant to lose my current sense of self, even if I am a bit neurotic as it stands.😁

Yes, could someone please clarify if Roche is intended for long-term use? As I mentioned previously, I was prescribed this for non-psychiatric issues. I am asking because I find the effects quite helpful, but I have absolutely no desire to develop a dependency; I certainly have more than enough tolerance for Sanofi and Ambien to deal with in my life.

Is it actually a bad idea to take AT&T, specifically Zoloft, right before hitting the hay at night?

I mean, if it turns out to be a mistake, what's the actual logic behind why that would be an issue?

Brandon Murphy5 said:Is it actually a bad idea to take AT&T, specifically Zoloft, right before hitting the hay at night?

I mean, if it turns out to be a mistake, what's the actual logic behind why that would be an issue?

It isn't.

Some people take it first thing in the morning, others in the afternoon, and some at night; it all just depends on why it was prescribed in the first place.
If your doctor suggested taking it in the evening, then there is a perfectly valid reason for that, right?

Not every disorder is identical, so naturally, the timing of the medication, the dosage, and everything else will vary accordingly...

That’s an antidepressant. I don't really think people just take those on demand specifically to help them sleep. There are plenty of other medications much better suited for that purpose.

I'm moving this thread over to the Psychology section; you'll get much more professional answers over there than you will in this corner of the forum. 🙂

restlesstrucker15 said:Yes, could someone please clarify if Roche is intended for long-term use? As I mentioned previously, I was prescribed this for non-psychiatric issues. I am asking because I find the effects quite helpful, but I have absolutely no desire to develop a dependency; I certainly have more than enough tolerance for Sanofi and Ambien to deal with in my life.

Man, I've been on it for 5 years now. The most I ever took was 2mg twice a day, but lately it's just 2mg in the morning and maybe 1mg if things get rough. Honestly, if the meds are doing their job, there's no reason to stress about getting addicted. My tolerance hasn't even bumped up over the years, even when I was hitting that 4mg total daily dose; mostly I've just stayed at 2mg.
Sometimes I can even go a whole day on just 1mg. It’s a solid med, honestly haven't found anything better. Works great as both an AT&T and an anxiolytic, plus there aren't really side effects besides feeling a little sleepy when you first start. 🙂

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