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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 3 of 3. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Janelle on July 2, 2001, at 23:39:22
I read or heard a LONG time ago that one should remain on an anti-depressant for at least six MONTHS after the symptoms are gone. Well, I can understand that for depression that is "situationally" or "environmentally" induced, but what about those with a (probably genetic) biochemical imbalance?
Are there people who "should" be on these meds for LIFE?
I was on Paxil for 7 YEARS (successfully for most of it). Now, I'm struggling again and needing to go on another a-d or something for OCD. I don't want to be on med(s) for life, but is this something I should consider? Thanks.
Posted by SalArmy4me on July 3, 2001, at 0:01:21
In reply to How LONG should one be on these meds? HELP!, posted by Janelle on July 2, 2001, at 23:39:22
Pharmacologic treatment should last for a minimum of 6 months after an initial episode. Most clinicians will continue treatment for at least 1 year for patients with a second episode. If the patient has responded, and symptoms are resolved, the decision can be made whether to taper the patient off of the drug or continue maintenance therapy. In a National Institute of Mental Health Collaborative Depression Study, one third of patients became ill again 1 year after recovery from an index episode of depression; almost one half became ill again by 2 years; and almost three quarters by 8 years. Maintenance therapy may be continued indefinitely for patients with a history of frequent or multiple episodes of depression, major depression with preexisting dysthymia (double depression), onset of depression after the age of 60 years, long duration of individual episodes, severe index episode, poor symptom control during continuation therapy, and comorbid anxiety disorder or substance abuse. A strong family history of affective disorder also increases the risk of recurrence. Maintenance therapy with full doses of antidepressants is highly correlated with preventing recurrences for up to 5 years.
Posted by Jocor on July 5, 2001, at 14:29:49
In reply to How LONG should one be on these meds? HELP!, posted by Janelle on July 2, 2001, at 23:39:22
I agree with SalArmy4me. The first time I got on meds, I stayed on for 6 months and then stopped. I relapsed 3 months later. The second time I was on meds for 1 year before stopping. I relapsed 3 months later.
I got off meds when I was pregnant but relapsed big time shortly after having my baby.
Now, I know and have been told by my psychiatrist that I have to remain on meds for life.
This was very hard for me to accept. First I struggled with the idea that my depression/anxiety/obsessive thoughts all had to do with my childhood experiences. I have done much work to resolve past issues and still the depression continues.
I have accepted that I have a physiological chemical imbalance and it's OK to be on meds.
If I had diabetes or hypertension I would not question my reason for being on meds. BUT because society thinks depression is a sign of weakness or a "sick in the head" thing I questioned my necessity to be on meds.
At 40 I can honestly say that I need AD's and without them I could not have a functional and happy life.
Jocor
This is the end of the thread.
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