Posted by Sandra62 on March 24, 2007, at 17:51:24
After years of being on AD's, benzos, and AP's I'm finally deciding that it is high time for me to understand what exactly these meds are doing, or at best, trying to do. I am not in a happy place so I'm searching for ways to improve this, along with my doctor's help. Some of this will require an explanation of neurotransmitters too I guess. TIA for helping to explain!
For instance, the Lexapro I'm taking, what effect does an SSRI supposedly have on the neurotransmitters? What does serotonin "reuptake" inhibitor mean? That you are soaking in more serotonin or less? And what is this effect supposed to do for you?
With something like EffexorXR which my PDOC is considering instead since I'm still depressed, what does a "serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor" supposed to do for you exactly?
In addition, why do these meds often cause sexual dysfunction? What is going on in the brain because of these meds that causes that? This is one of my primary concerns as I've found that with the SSRI's only Lexapro has been able to give me the ability to still achieve orgasm, but my libido is definately low.
Interestingly enough, when I tried Wellbutrin it had the opposite effect. It was like an aphrodisiac. Any ideas why? Is it the effect on dopamine? What effect? I subsequently experienced rage on Wellbutrin so had to stop it, sadly.
Another concern I have is weight gain that I've experienced taking Zyprexa. What area of the brain is this med attacking that causes this?
I've also now got 'blunting' going on. I'm suspecting the Zyprexa so my PDOC is taking me off of this. But WHY the blunting?
I guess I'm searching, like many of us, for the perfect med cocktail that will help me balance out. I'm Bipolar and I miss my highs. Now I just have a steady low state. No motivation. No zest for life. I also take Lamictal and Rivotril. I can't even begin to guess what those meds are doing and why. Any ideas would be deeply appreciated.
poster:Sandra62
thread:743789
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20070320/msgs/743789.html