Posts by Jason Hughes51

23 posts shown.

Psychotropic medication discussion thread in Psychology & Therapy · Apr 8, 2009

Brian Wells said:

You're absolutely right. I didn't mean to imply that my doctor recommended Coaxil or Effexor specifically, but they are used for anxiety-depression states where dependency can occur, along with withdrawal symptoms when tapering. I just studied various antidepressants closely, particularly these two, and considered Coaxil a potentially better option due to its pharmacokinetics (how it metabolizes) and milder side effects, especially when paired with an anxiolytic. Since I work in healthcare, I know pretty clearly that "A drug without side effects has no benefits either." Everyone is different, and medication works differently for everyone.
I'm glad things are looking up for you. I'd sincerely suggest finding other ways to maintain your emotional, mental, and physical balance before you start tapering off your meds (for me, yoga was number one because it hits everything: physical fitness, mental self-analysis, and emotional/spiritual growth). That’s what worked for me. A year of consistent practice (along with other lifestyle changes) replaced almost 7 mg of Lrosilan.
"It's not that we don't dare because it's hard, but it's hard because we don't dare."
Seneca greeting

Best,
You're absolutely right. I didn't mean to imply that my doctor recommended Coaxil or Effexor specifically, but they are used for anxiety-depression states where dependency can occur, along with withdrawal symptoms when tapering. I just studied various antidepressants closely, particularly these two, and considered Coaxil a potentially better option due to its pharmacokinetics (how it metabolizes) and milder side effects, especially when paired with an anxiolytic. Since I work in healthcare, I know pretty clearly that "A drug without side effects has no benefits either." Everyone is different, and medication works differently for everyone.
I'm glad things are looking up for you. I'd sincerely suggest finding other ways to maintain your emotional, mental, and physical balance before you start tapering off your meds (for me, yoga was number one because it hits everything: physical fitness, mental self-analysis, and emotional/spiritual growth). That’s what worked for me. A year of consistent practice (along with other lifestyle changes) replaced almost 7 mg of Lrosilan.
"It's not that we don't dare because it's hard, but it's hard because we don't dare."
Seneca greeting

Best,
Fair enough, since you hadn't mentioned that. It sounds fine to me. I haven't quite figured out yet if I feel better simply because I finally feel like I am taking action for myself, or if the chemistry itself is working more effectively—but regardless, I am definitely in a much better state right now.
As for tapering down, I am only at the very beginning of that journey. And I haven't tried transitioning to yoga, as that particular type of exercise actually makes me feel a bit restless.
I still have a long road ahead of me.
But for now, everything is going smoothly, and my psychiatrist is great.

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Psychotropic medication discussion thread in Psychology & Therapy · Apr 7, 2009

Brian Wells said:Back during the war, I dealt with some minor stressors, but I've always been a hyper-sensitive person. Everything eventually culminated in anxiety and depression, which I managed for 15 years using Lrosilan. I lived relatively well—finished two degrees, got married, have two kids, and run my own business. However, my tolerance grew along with my dependency, so for the past year, I've been in a process of total lifestyle overhaul and self-healing. At one point, I was taking over 10 mg of Lrosilan. Through a complete life change (private CBT therapy, advanced yoga, a vegetarian diet, studying psychology, increasing my spirituality through reading and meditation, more exercise, taking Zinc, Calcium, Magnesium, and Omega-3s, plus autosuggestion, self-control, and some acupuncture), I managed to drop my dosage back down to an initial level of 1.5+1.5+1 mg of Lrosilan.

I definitely feel withdrawal symptoms, but I also still feel the unhealed root causes of my anxiety and depression. That's why I researched antidepressants extensively and reached the conclusion that I might supplement my treatment with Coaxil. I've never taken an antidepressant before.

I'm not expecting miracles. I'm playing the long game. I guess I'm looking for advice, experts, or anyone who has had similar experiences or dilemmas.

P.P.

Goodness, I wouldn't go jumping to any conclusions quite yet—I almost feel like I should caution you against deciding on your own that you might need Coaxil. 🙂 I suppose it might be prudent to consult with a psychiatrist before making any sudden moves. It’s just my thought, though—perhaps it isn't strictly necessary, but I feel like getting a professional opinion could provide some much-needed clarity.

To be perfectly honest, I don't really have any firsthand experience with anything else, aside from the Coaxil I'm currently taking in the specific combination I mentioned earlier.
Everything seems to be going quite well on my end at the moment, I suppose.🙂 Of course, I suppose that's how much it might be.
I have been dealing with quite a severe trauma lately, and my psychiatrist’s notes regarding my situation are... well, they are rather intense to read. As for my treatment, I suppose I have been taking Coaxil for about a month now.
I feel significantly more composed lately. I am actually sleeping through the night, which is a relief. Those intrusive, terrifying thoughts have subsided, and I don't find myself gripped by the same intense fears that used to haunt me. I suppose things are finally stabilizing.
My current plan is to stay on Coaxil for about six months, and then I'll look into tapering off.
I feel it is important to mention that one should probably avoid seeking professional medical advice through online forums. While I suppose you can certainly find a sense of community here, and perhaps even some emotional support or shared experiences to help you endure difficult times, those things are quite different from clinical guidance. In my opinion, it would be much more prudent to seek advice directly from a qualified specialist in a private, one-on-one setting.
I must say, I am quite pleased with my psychiatrist. 🙂 It seems there are actually people here you can truly talk to. It’s not quite at the point where you feel forced to conclude that this is the only thing you need.
Best of luck.
🙂

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Psychotropic medication discussion thread in Psychology & Therapy · Mar 29, 2009

It’s been three weeks on the Coaxil 🙂. I have to say, it feels quite wonderful, especially considering how much I was struggling before this.
The combination of Coaxil and Xanax—well, it numbs those painful memories just enough, which I suppose is a relief, and I am actually more than satisfied with the results.

I haven't been overeating, I feel significantly calmer, and those panic attacks haven't returned. My mouth feels somewhat dry, though the one thing that is truly, deeply bothering me is a strange odor in my urine. 🤷

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