Posted by Cam W. on February 26, 2001, at 20:00:23
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawl (sigh!), posted by steve on February 26, 2001, at 16:38:27
> Cam,
>
> You might want to read Glenmullen's book. It describes the withdrawal syndrome associated with the SSRIs, which is also mentioned in the literature.Steve - I am well aware of serotonin withdrawl symptoms and it's treatment. I have been aware of it for at least the past 5 years. It is just a shame that many docs do not realize the extent of this problem and the simple methods used to treat it.
Wyeth-Ayerst has not been diligent enough in disseminating this knowledge because it could save a lot of grief. If you check the archives, I have, on several occasions given ways in combating serotonin syndrome, which incidentally has been seen with all serotonergic agents, but most commonly those with shorter half-lifes (Effexor, Paxil, and Zoloft are the three that I have seen problems with, most commonly).
When withdrawing from a serotonergic agent one must give the body time to readjust the concentration of certain serotonin receptors. This is easiestly done by substituting a long acting serotonergic agent (eg. Prozac) for the offending agent and slowly weaning from this long acting agent.
This method, in certain people, takes quite a bit of time to complete properly; possibly due to factors involving the slow down regulation of serotonin receptors in these people. Diligent monitoring by the physician can minimize many of the disturbing effects of serotonin withdrawl.
Sincerely - Cam
poster:Cam W.
thread:54599
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010221/msgs/54942.html