Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => Personal Experiences => Topic started by: Suzysheep on October 06, 2021, 03:59:35 PM
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Hi,
My dr has just prescribed me venlafaxine for my anxiety. I’m currently taking citalopram, but after 7 weeks with no improvement she thinks it’s best to try something else.
She said they are highly recommend for menopausal anxiety, so hoping they work.
Has anyone any experience of taking them?
Bit nervous to start…. But there’s no point flogging a dead horse with the citalopram! X
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What's to lose? Your GP seems happy to prescribe and support until U find something that eases symptoms. As with any medication, it can be Trial and Error.
Do U have to wean off B4 beginning the new medication?
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No, apparently you can just swap. She looked it up on her database. X
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That's good. Would you leave the swap until Friday = weekend ?
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No… husband is off this week, so I’m just going to get on with it whilst he’s here to help! Xx
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8).
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My son has been taking venlafaxine for the last two years or so. He's been on citalopram and fluoxetine but these seem to be working well for him, although it took a while. He's 26.
Hope you have as good a result, it can be a tricky journey with anxiety.
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Bad day with side effects today. Lots of shaking… feeling sick… ugh.
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Oh have a :hug: Can U tolerate it?
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I’m going to have to. X thanks for the hug xx
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The nausea is the worst issue 4 me with anything .........
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I have started the shakes now. My anxiety was less today, but my hands are really shaking. It’s horrible.
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A lot of that mayB anxiety about the medication. Is it enough to empty a cup of tea, I've done that int he past >:(. Let the medication do it's work ;-)
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Yes, you’re probably right. The shaking has gone down as the day has wore on.
Ugh…..
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R U eating?
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Yes, a little bit.
Today has been awful. Really bad shakes. Legs like jelly. I had a panic attack out with the dog…. I’m a mess.
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Sending good wishes your way, Suzy.
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Thankyou cherry. It’s been a tough day today… but I’m trying to stick with it ….
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Hi Suzy, I’ve no help to offer but I so hope you get peace soon. I hope today is better for you.
Sending love and a hug.
Victoria.x
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Suzy - I am so sorry to hear about what you are going through and hope that the new med settles and works for you. Sending a big hug to you. x ❤️
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Hi I've been on V for a few years and seems to work well. Not sure if taking it at a different time might help. I take mines after breakfast. I am also taking the slow release version as the normal version made me sick. Which one are you taking? I remember being asked to switch as the slow release is more expensive drug. I did try but had to go back to slow release. Didi
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Thank you everyone
I’m feeling pretty awful. Still very anxious, shaking, dizzy… generally rough. I’ve been on the sofa all day.
I think I’m dealing with withdrawal from the citalopram as well as getting used to the venlafaxine.
Denise, I’m taking the slow release version. I take it at night.
Do you remember feeling bad on it at first?
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Can't remember sorry. Maybe worth trying mornings. If you are still feeling bad maybe best to check in with gp, perhaps starting on a lower dose. I switched from fluexotine to venlafaxine in 2013! Do remember changing was hard.
Didi
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How about taking it on alternate days? You won't notice withdrawal if you are taking another drug.
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Hey Suzy
Sorry you are feeling rubbish xx
Sending huge hugs and support right now.
Hope you feel better very soon 🌸🌸🌸
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P.s I’ve been advised to try venoflaxine also for anxiety ( or citalopram, sertraline or mirtazapine)
Not sure yet xx
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I’m feeling much better now I’ve got over the initial side effects. Much less anxiety this morning. Hopefully there is some light at the end of the tunnel!
Nas… I would try some meds, honestly, there’s no point struggling on. Xx
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Hey Suzi,
That’s good news !
I don’t know which to go for?
I have sertraline already, but not used.
I suppose the one with the least side effects ?
Do you think venalflaxine is worth a shot? X
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Yes, I definitely think venlafaxine is worth a shot.
I’ve been on the citalopram for 8 weeks and felt worse anxiety wise. I’ve been on the venlafaxine 10 days, apart from the awful side effects when starting I now notice a huge improvement in my anxiety.
I’ve never taken sertraline, so I can’t advise on that one… but the reason I went on venlafaxine is because the mental health nurse at my surgery said it’s recommended for menopause symptoms. X
I must add though that I am very sensitive to absolutely everything, so even though I got awful side effects, you might not. Xx
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Thanks Suzy,
I think I will opt for the venlaflaxine then I think.
I have mirtazapine also, but not taken that yet ( it’s for sleep primarily). Not sure I can take both.
I hope you continue to feel calm. I need something for driving anxiety and the fight or flight feeling X xx
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Apparently you can take Martazapine with venlafaxine, I’ve seen it a lot through my research, but best to ask your dr.
That awful fight or flight feeling is just so exhausting, it’s just horrible to be suffering from it so much.
I really hope you get sorted soon Nas, xx
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Thanks Suzy
You are right, fight or flight is brutal and I’m sick of it now.
Will start my mirtazapine tonight, see how I get on, then maybe request another drug later on, depending on how I’m feeling. I’ve got to get this driving under control ASAP xx
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How did you get on Nas?
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Even though I know that flight/fight is normal, 4 me it's so overwhelming and the physicality floors me :'(
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Still haven’t taken it Suzy!
I’m scared!
I’m on half term from work next week and wondering whether to hold out until then?
How are you? X
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Yep. If you haven't any plans for half term, do try. R U better when on holiday?
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My anxiety is so much better already, but I’m still struggling with side effects. Generally tired and a bit foggy brained. But I feel there’s light at the end of the tunnel now xx
Good idea to start it in the holidays x
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Hi Nas, I have been given sertraline by my GP but have been reluctant to start as I am having "mop up" chemo now for post bowel cancer tumour removal in July.
My anxiety is off the scale after a horrible year losing my Mum and then the diagnosis/surgery....and am feeling shaky, heart pounding and so tired and nauseous, so still not sure what to do?
Constant fight or flight all the time, it's exhausting. Already on Atenolol 25mg for anxiety and am on transdermal HRT and Utrogestan.
Think I need another chat with my GP??
Hope everyone in the same position gets the help soon xx
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Hi Julia,
I’m sorry to hear of your cancer diagnosis, I do hope you are recovering well from surgery etc? I had breast cancer many years ago and also had chemo afterwards. It’s a roller coaster journey for sure xx
You are dealing with a lot right now and It’s bound to take its toll on your body and brain. What HRT are you on ? Maybe it needs tweaking?
The sertraline may help to take the edge off things a bit?
Chemo is exhausting, you must be kind to yourself.
All the best
Nas x
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If your GP is aware of your chemical mix then why not try the Sertraline? Why suffer ? If it doesn't t help after 3-4 weeks you can stop.
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Thank you, I took a sertraline yesterday and felt so ill/weird all day and night with bad dreams, so sick, shaky, the runs, can't eat (which I have to to take the chemo tablets) so am not taking any more! My body isn't coping well with the chemo never mind chucking something else at it! Glad you are on the other side of it now Nas, what a journey. I am nearly 15 weeks post op so getting there with that side of things.
Erkkk it's all an absolute nightmare :'(
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Apparently you can take Martazapine with venlafaxine, I’ve seen it a lot through my research, but best to ask your dr.
That awful fight or flight feeling is just so exhausting, it’s just horrible to be suffering from it so much.
I really hope you get sorted soon Nas, xx
Venlafaxine and Mirtazapine combination has a nickname, it is so well-known: California Rocket Fuel :)
Didn't want to sound flippant, I've been on and off meds myself for 10 years or so, and hope everyone on here gets some peace of mind, by whatever means.
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Cherry, do you think venlaflaxine and mirtazapine are a lethal combination? I haven’t taken anything yet, still too scared!
Suzy, hows it going? X
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Nas, bless you, why not take a mirtazapine tonight, you might find you get the best night sleep in a long long time. And tomorrow you might just find your anxiety is a little less. You have half term now so it's an ideal time for you. Any drowsy start up effects can then happen over the next ten days or so. It just about has the least start up effects, I can vouch for that. Imagine if you were put on pills for any other condition that you had to take. You would just take them and put up with the initial side effects. It's the same for ADs. X
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Thanks Gnatty,
I know, I need a good kick up the backside, trying to soldier on, but really, I just want to sleep and feel rested the next day.
Okay, tonight’s the night I take the mirtazapine!
The fight or flight feeling Gnatty, is that low oestrogen still? Feels like body is on alert all the time. Driving on fast bendy lanes, oh god they are hell! I need to take something!
Xxx
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Cherry, do you think venlaflaxine and mirtazapine are a lethal combination? I haven’t taken anything yet, still too scared!
Suzy, hows it going? X
Hey Nas, I have not taken either of them, to me,, it sounds like a lot! It's intended when single-drug options fail.
I've had citalopram (only one I could really tolerate), sertraline (made me bizarrely angry and sweaty, hair started falling out), escitalopram (wiped out a month with brain fog, exhaustion and chills) and last but not least, fluoxetine, mostly to get me off the citalopram as the half-life is a month, so it's kind of self-tapering. Fluoxetine was exhausting, I don't know how my mother-in law takes it every day, and stays awake.
For me I can no longer function on ssris as would be unable to work due to exhaustion and brain fog. The citalopram was my go-to, but it simply stopped working.
I've known lots of people say they are taking venlafaxine, my son does well on it. It's an SNRI, so slightly different. I'm too scared to take any more psych meds based on the above but one size does not fit all, and some people do really well on them.
I did meet someone very overweight who had been a size 12 before mirtazapine. But again, lots of people put on weight on citalopram and I never did, nor do the many happy mirtazapine users. It's meant to be brilliant for sleep.
If I had my time over again I would simply leave the job that overwhelmed me rather than taking the citalopram, but you may feel great on them. Whatever you decide I hope it goes well💐
Suzy, I'm glad it's started to work. 🎉
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I think Nas yes it could well be low oestrogen but the mirtazapine should give you some respite from those awful feelings. As you may know I take oestrogel and testosterone too, but I feel it was the mirtazapine that very quickly started to work on the anxiety which was off the scale. Hopefully a few months down the line I shall only need the HRT but at the moment I am just enjoying life again and don't want to rock the boat. I can't tell you what a sheer relief it is to feel well again. At the time I didn't believe I was going to get better.
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Cherry, do you think venlaflaxine and mirtazapine are a lethal combination? I haven’t taken anything yet, still too scared!
Suzy, hows it going? X
I’m doing so much better thanks Nas. The difference is huge. My anxiety before was through the roof… I honestly felt like I was having a nervous breakdown. I feel more or less like me again. I still get a bit tired from the venlafaxine, but hopefully as the days go on I will get used to it more.
With out a doubt, it was the best thing I did to get myself out of the hole.
How are you feeling? X
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Well Gnatty, I took 15mg of mirtazapine last night, around 10pm.
Totally zonked out! Feeling a bit drowsy this am though, which won’t be good for when I’m back at work. Should I take it earlier do you think? Or does it knock you out from the point of taking it?
Gnatty,is mirtazapine primarily anti anxiety medication then? What dose of oestrogel do you take? Seriously, how does low Oestrogen make us feel so anxious ? Yesterday, I had to take a different route home because I can’t cope with the fast bendy road with no white lines to keep me straight. It sends me into a complete sweaty mess! What’s that about??
Cherry, you are right in that sometimes we have to remove ourselves from the situations which overwhelm us. For me, working 5 days is essentially too much when I’m not sleeping well. I’m permanently tired and this in turn exacerbates the anxiety, but trying to optimize this blooming HRT seems high on impossible right now.
If I end up putting on weight, the mirtazapine will have to stop.
Do you take anything at all now Cherry? How do you feel in yourself?
Suzy, it’s great to hear you are feeling more upbeat, goes to show that taking the venalflaxine was the right decision for you.
It must be a relief to feel less anxious.. well done for your perseverance and riding the nasty side effects storm
I hope you continue to go from strength to strength 🌸🌸🌸🌸
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Hi Nas, certainly you could try taking it an hour earlier. I would also hope that by next Monday the morning drowsiness will have started to ease up. I found after a coffee or two I was good to go. I think Mirtazapine is used for depression as well as anxiety. You should notice your anxiety gradually improve. I think my panic type attacks resolved quickly and then the general anxiety slowly got better and better. Noticed a big difference end of week two, then again between week four and six and then again about week ten to the point where I feel in a really good place. Had forgotten what enthusiasm feels like!
Well done for taking your first dose last night. See it as you now being on the first step towards recovery.
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Just another thought, well advice really I suppose. There's a saying I think along the lines of If you go looking for trouble you'll surely find it. I think this is very helpful when starting new medication. If you read all the side effects and read all the scary stuff online I reckon anyone can just about talk themselves into getting them! I think there was a big study on people taking statins where they were told they might get muscle aches and it was then just as reported if not more in the placebo group. Think it's called the nonebo effect. Or something like it. So yes, try and keep busy so you are not doing too much over thinking. This may help. X
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Okay Gnatty, will try to continue. I do feel that if my oestrogen was at an okay level, I may not feel so panicky and anxious. But, I’m struggling to get it right and I can’t continue feeling panic stricken before driving these roads. I do feel tired now, but hey ho.
Gnatty, what Hrt dose do you take?
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Cherry, you are right in that sometimes we have to remove ourselves from the situations which overwhelm us. For me, working 5 days is essentially too much when I’m not sleeping well. I’m permanently tired and this in turn exacerbates the anxiety, but trying to optimize this blooming HRT seems high on impossible right now.
If I end up putting on weight, the mirtazapine will have to stop.
Nas, it must have been wonderful to sleep properly when you haven't been - I remember this being amazing to me when I first went on them, as I hadn't slept properly in years - it was the waking at 4/5am thing we all love so much ::) But after 10 years, citalopram causes me to waken every sleep cycle, and be more anxious than undrugged. :'( My longtime drug has betrayed me (although I was always drugged-feeling on even a tiny dose!)
I took 20 mg fluoxetine for 3 days in Sept, then every 4 or 5 days took 1 or 2mg Fluoxetine from a capsule, to reflect the half-life. At the moment I'm having my own version of Stoptober, i.e. taking nothing. It's been difficult, to put it mildly. But then being clear-headed is bliss. I am not working at the moment, which makes it tolerable. What I'll do when I get a job is another question. But then if I took them I'd be too tired to work. I've absolutely no idea what I'd try next - perhaps Venlafaxine, but if I couldn't manage on the others I don't rate my chances on that! St John's Wort perhaps, or Ashwaghanda?
Fingers crossed that the drowsiness goes for you, and the weight thing doesn't happen. Lots of people are fine on it. The flight-or-fight thing is indeed horrible, especially when it keeps happening. One thing I did find, about these drugs, that was great, is that life suddenly seems far less serious, somehow. In a good way. :)
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I would start it earlier, if necessary going to bed B4 . The effects of doziness does go eventually. If it doesn't, take the medication on alternate nights for a week?
I much prefer the wooziness most mornings than the deep depression :-\. It does go by mid-morning, more difficult if 1 is having to go to work.
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Hi Nas I take 5 pumps of oestrogel and also testim, I make the tube last ten days. But I have no ovaries so don't need progesterone.
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Maybe it will be easier to get the oestrogen right once everything has calmed down.
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Thanks Gnatty
5 pumps of gel? You would have thought the anxiety would gave shifted on that? It’s brutal this anxiety isn’t it?
I cannot believe I’m having trouble driving still, even on HRT. Some days I can barely remember what to do!
How long have you been on the mirtazapine for?
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Cherry, I sincerely hope my outlook on life mellow somewhat over time. At present I feel my nerves have been shot to pieces!!
Ashwangandha. Now I’ve heard good things about that. It’s meant to curb anxiety and high cortisol levels, so could be worth a shot? You have to buy decent quality as with all these products I guess!
If I didn’t work, I’d have a good old experiment with these drugs and products. But having to be functioning by 8am every day, it’s just not practical to be feeling woozy/sick etc etc
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Hi Nas,
Do you get anxious about driving only or are you anxious at different times of day?
I’m asking because I’ve got rid of anxiety apart from when I have to deal with two clients who are hard work. When they call the office I can feel the anxiety at a lower level but it’s still there.
Well done on getting a good night’s sleep!
Victoria.x
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Hi Victoria,
I guess its low level anxiety bubbling through the day. However, driving makes it worse. Fast bendy roads that go on for miles with no white lines. Just awful!
Are you on Hrt? X
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Hi, yes I’m on Oestrogel, Utrogestan and Testogel. I’m only on month 3 so still finding my feet.
Anxiety was my worst symptom, I get low level anxiety spurts at work sometimes but it’s a million times better than it was. I nearly resigned, the meds worked thankfully.
Victoria.x
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Hi Victoria,
I guess its low level anxiety bubbling through the day. However, driving makes it worse. Fast bendy roads that go on for miles with no white lines. Just awful!
Are you on Hrt? X
The chap I live with has become anxious about driving. He used to be so fearless, he'd drive in quite snowy conditions, which I really find scary. He won't go on the motorway now, poor guy.
Is your anxiety re driving something that happened after the Covid restrictions, Nas, because his seems to be.
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Hi Cherry ,
Sorry your chap has developed driving anxiety, what a shame for him 😥
Could he do short trips on the Motorway and get off at the first junction etc, just to read build confidence? Or take some motorway driving lessons?
Mine hit right at the time of menopause unfortunately. December 2018, all was good with the world. January 2019, I could barely drive! Symptoms just kept on coming and driving got hit the hardest 🥺
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Hi Cherry ,
Sorry your chap has developed driving anxiety, what a shame for him 😥
Could he do short trips on the Motorway and get off at the first junction etc, just to read build confidence? Or take some motorway driving lessons?
Mine hit right at the time of menopause unfortunately. December 2018, all was good with the world. January 2019, I could barely drive! Symptoms just kept on coming and driving got hit the hardest 🥺
Actually a short bit of motorway is an excellent suggestion, thanks Nas. Will delicately suggest it.
Good job you are also on hrt for the anxiety since it's hormonal even if it's not enough by itself. So many women seem to swear by it. To think they would all have had to manage without it once apon a time does not bear imagining :o
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CherrySG - could he have a few driving lessons? Traffic moves so quickly these days :-\. Keep away from Smart Motorways, 'cos they ain't!
I have never driven on a motorway and hate travelling on them. I immediately want the loo ::)
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CherrySG - could he have a few driving lessons? Traffic moves so quickly these days :-\. Keep away from Smart Motorways, 'cos they ain't!
I have never driven on a motorway and hate travelling on them. I immediately want the loo ::)
I'm not keen on the motorway either, CLKD, I try to avoid them. I'm not sure male pride would stand up to driving lessons! Smart motorways - are those the ones where it's hard not to get done for speeding? ???
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Nope those are the motorways without a hard shoulder >:(
MayB offer him driving lessons for birthday/C.mas. He may think along those lines and not like to talk about it. "I hear that those who have taken the Advanced Driving Course pay less for car insurance, is that something that we should consider? If so, mayB some reminded lessons to see whether we would qualify?"
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[/quote]
I'm not keen on the motorway either, CLKD, I try to avoid them. I'm not sure male pride would stand up to driving lessons! Smart motorways - are those the ones where it's hard not to get done for speeding? ???
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;D ;D ;D You’re very right there!
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Nope those are the motorways without a hard shoulder >:(
MayB offer him driving lessons for birthday/C.mas. He may think along those lines and not like to talk about it. "I hear that those who have taken the Advanced Driving Course pay less for car insurance, is that something that we should consider? If so, mayB some reminded lessons to see whether we would qualify?"
His mum took the Advanced Driving Course. Much good it did her, too. I honestly thought we were all going to die when she overtook on a blind bend in the fog :o
VictoryV - I thought they were the ones where the limit keeps changing - now it's 50, then it's 60 - aargh! No idea what you do without a hard shoulder if your clutch goes.
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Hi Cherry, they are like that here, forever changing from 60 to 50 and then back again. I think it’s been proven that Smart motorways are more dangerous but due to commercial reasons they are carrying on regardless!
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No motorway driving for me ladies. I can barely manage fast county lanes these days, without thinking I’m going to die!! 🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
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It's very interesting this fear of driving/ motorways. This happened to me I think about ten years ago and couldn't understand why I was being so 'pathetic' . Now I look back and realise that was probably for me start of perimenopause. Anxiety manifesting itself as fear of driving.
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Fast motorways don't have hard shoulders = people dying.
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I think fast country lanes with no markings and bends are far more frightening, I’d rather deal with the M1.
Nas, did you get sleep last night? How are you feeling today?
V.x
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Victoria, seriously these fast bendy roads put the fear of god into me these days. The one to my sons school, oh my days, no lines, ditches on either side, sharp bends and tractors hurtling along in the middle of the road =😫😫 I just can’t do it any more and end up taking the long route!
Gnatty, I do recall this driving anxiety starting up a good 5/6 years ago too.
It was subtle but noticeable. I would um and ah re:going to Morrison’s ( no bendy road) or sainsbury ( very bendy road) and on occasions I would opt for Morrison’s. It did pass, but returned with a vengeance 3 years ago!
Sleep was very restless last night. I didn’t take my mirtazapine as I had to be up early to have a blood test. I wish I had taken it now, as quite tired and got lots to do.
My Oestrogen has been tested, as has my thyroid. I dont think my 0 levels are going to be great ( having been on the patch consistently for over 3 months) so I’ve got to decide which regime to try next. I’ve got femeston Conti tablets prescribed by my specialist. I’m scared of taking them though, in case I bleed or get a tummy ache!
I just wish menopause would go away now.
How is everyone else doing ?
Suzy, I think of you lots and hope the V is working well still?
Xxxx🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺
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Hi Nas, if you need to be up early just take it earlier in the evening. I know you know this but try and be consistent to give it it's best chance of making a difference. X
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I will try Gnatty, I’m hopeless at consistency ( as you can tell!)
Tonight I’m back on track ! X
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Hi Nas, about driving and taking the longer route, I think that’s the best way for you right now. Take the path that is kindest to ourselves. We are struggling with enough.
Today I’ve had to take the easiest option on a mobile phone as I’ve delayed upgrading it and it’s now got half a screen, doesn’t hold charge and the speaker is packing up. I hate buying phones but gave in and bought an iPhone which is 3 times what a Samsung would cost. I can’t take on the stress of converting my phone data from Apple to Android so chose the easiest and more expensive option. This choice has left me feeling old and ‘past it’ as tech stuff doesn’t usually bother me but I need simple/no stress/ kindness etc.
Where’s a teenager when you need one? ;D
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;D. ? helping me with my new phone ? ;D
Oh give me a pen, paper, envelope and stamp :D
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Victoria, you are right. I will just have to drive ‘my way’for now. I can’t do much more than that.
I am totally with you on the tech stuff! I also need a new phone and know that whatever I get, will cost me at least 3 times more than
what I pay now! Sometimes we just need to take the easy option eh? I’ve got two teens here, both adding fuel to my driving disaster by wanting lifts!! 🤦♀️🤦♀️
Gnatty, do you think if i re start the mirtazapine I can get to a better place anxiety wise? I just have to get the driving back on track and not feel a bag of nerves each time a tractor comes in the opposite direction. I can’t believe this anxiety has shot my brain to pieces like this??
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Hi Nas, if you don't try it I guess you'll never know. I can only tell you that for me it was a game changer. Why don't you make the decision to stick with it for a few weeks? Your doctor that prescribed it must think it will help. The only thing that's certain is if you take it some nights and not others you'll surely end up in a worse place as your body won't know which way is up! It's a bit like starting HRT and endlessly fiddling with the dose, you never learn what suits. Consistency and patience is key. I know this as I made all those mistakes previously. Tell a trusted person your decision and ask them to encourage you/ give you reassurance. As you said yourself this is an ideal time for you, during half term.
At the end of the day Nas, how bad is your anxiety, are you coping or do you need help? My anxiety as I have said was through the roof and I would have taken anything to make it go away.
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Nas, how about taking the Mirtazipine for the rest of half term break and at least get 7 days of sleep under your belt? Practise taking it at earlier times and having a strong coffee ready for if you feel groggy in the morning. Getting sleep consistently is only going to help and you can make the decision of whether you want to stay on it with a rested head.
Gnatty’ s right, it’s not going to work without consistency and you’ll know a bit more in 7 days and the half term opportunity is perfect!
If my anxiety returns I’m going to be looking at AD’s as my life was over; I couldn’t cope with anxiety simmering away.
X
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Nas,
I would recommend taking the martazepine and sticking with it. Like gantry says, it won’t do you any good chopping and changing it as it’s not designed to be taken as a one off. It needs time to build up and stabilise in your system.
Honestly, I think it will be the best thing you can do for yourself xx
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You are all right of course.
Consistently is absolutely key.
Gnatty, I guess the anxiety is bubbling away most days. I’m very jumpy and on edge. But also feel quite overwhelmed with life ( stuff to do with the house, driving issues, needing a better paid job etc etc )
Some days are better than other for sure, but my HRT isn’t stable yet ( not absorbing my patch).
Victoria, I hear you re the anxiety. It isn’t good and it needs tackling head on, especially if I’m to look for other jobs.
Suzy, I hope you are right and things look a bit brighter soon. I never wanted to cave in and take medication but not got much choice. If mirtazapine doesn’t do anything, then I will try the next!
Xxxx
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It’s not caving in Nas, don’t think of it like that… it’s giving you some calm and breathing space whilst your hormones sort themselves out.
I’ve got everything crossed for you that it brings you relief xx
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Morning all,
Well the mirtazapine gave me THE most horrid vivid dreams!
Quite disturbing in fact. I wasn’t sure I was even asleep.
Oh dear >:(
Do I continue ?
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Morning Nas,
I’m getting them too! Really graphic stuff, my front teeth were snapped off in night before’ s dream!
I’d keep going. Do you feel shattered like you’ve had no sleep? I thought dreaming was a sign of deep sleep but I’m not sure ???
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Victoria, the dreams were horrific.
Graphic is a an understatement!
We are talking about being attacked by killer bees and the second I won’t even mention as too awful.
I feel quite disturbed now. Not to mention shattered.
:(
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Hi,
I think it’ll pass. I just read this on National Institute of Neurological Disorders:
Dreaming
Everyone dreams. You spend about 2 hours each night dreaming but may not remember most of your dreams. Its exact purpose isn’t known, but dreaming may help you process your emotions. Events from the day often invade your thoughts during sleep, and people suffering from stress or anxiety are more likely to have frightening dreams. Dreams can be experienced in all stages of sleep but usually are most vivid in REM sleep. Some people dream in color, while others only recall dreams in black and white.
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I don’t remember dreaming in almost 3 decades of insomnia but since sleeping I do. I definitely think getting sleep has helped my anxiety.
Can you go back to bed for an hour’s rest?
V.x
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Yes the dreams were very odd indeed.
On a plus, I don’t feel as drunk as I did the other day.
Does your Hrt sort your anxiety then Victoria? I wish mine did.
Just started femeston conti Hrt tablet today. God alone knows what lies ahead with that!
Time to get some jobs done o guess.... xxxxx
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Me again!
Apparently venlafaxine is now a first line of treatment for BC survivors ( according to the Bms)
That means if mirtazapine doesn’t work, they could then offer me this ( I am a Bc survivor taking HRT )
Interesting.
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Isn't that though because it reduces hot flushes for women who don't take HRT? I know that Sertraline and Citalopram is often prescribed for the same reason.
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Yes Gnatty, that is correct.
But anti depressants aren’t going to address other symptoms ( I’m guessing) such as joint pain for example?
I’m a member of a menopause FB group and there’s a lady who was referred to a menopause clinic, to be told that she must prove that Hrt is required, by trialling 3 different anti depressants.
Hrt is not the first line of treatment for BC survivors. I could find myself in a position whereby anti depressants are the ONLY drug I can take, under guidance from the BMS.
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I was on citalopram, now on venlafaxine… I still get hot flushes!
I would highly recommend the venlafaxine. It has made me feel like my old self, and I was in such a state after stopping HRT. So… even though it was hormones causing my anxiety, the venlafaxine has worked perfectly.
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I was on citalopram, now on venlafaxine… I still get hot flushes!
I would highly recommend the venlafaxine. It has made me feel like my old self, and I was in such a state after stopping HRT. So… even though it was hormones causing my anxiety, the venlafaxine has worked perfectly.
Oh, I'm really glad it's working for you!
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Nas… did you take the martazepine? X
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Nas… did you take the martazepine? X
I'm also wondering how Nas is doing. Maybe she is off living her life and having a great time - hope so.
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Hey everyone !
How are you all getting on?
Well, I didn’t take the mirtazapine for too long as I find the Amitriptyline I take for nerve pain doesn’t do too bad a job of helping me sleep. My anxiety is a little less, but I don’t know if that’s down to the Amitriptyline, cbd oil I take or the Hrt..
I don’t feel 100%, but my difficult teenage son is largely contributing to that!!
It’s a difficult journey to navigate for sure and I won’t hesitate to turn to the mirtazapine again if I take a nose dive !
Xxxxx
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Oh, you do sound like you are doing a bit better. Glad the amitriptyline is doing the job. Of course it does depend on what's happening in our lives, and teenagers can be a handful ::)
Aa for me, I'm desperately giving citalopram another try, in the hope that it will work better now that I've been off the HRT for a while. Only day 4, but am less crackers already. ;)
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:) hey Cherry,
Let’s hope the citalopram does the trick then. What dose do you take? What Hrt were you on before? X
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I'm taking 10mg at the moment, Nas. The HRT was gel, mostly with Provera, also Utrogestan (shudder). Have also tried patches.
I can sleep on citalopram now, which I always could until combining it with HRT, whereupon I'd wake up every 2 or three hours. The drugged feeling never entirely wears off, but next to the original problem, it's a relief. Was too tired to function on both together. 😴
I'm glad you can sleep too, makes all the difference, doesn't it?
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Oh my god, back to square one again!
10mg of amitriptyline no longer works for the insomnia.
20 mg doesn’t work either.
Do I try 30 mg??
Anxiety is wretched all over again.
I cannot drive a car properly!
My Oestrogen levels are 465 on the 75 patch.
The 100 makes me feel ill. Testosterone levels appear reasonable.
What the hell do i do?
Why can’t I drive any longer?
Seriously, roads with no white lines are a big no no ! I’m all over the place.
My thyroid is well controlled.
B12 and vitamin D are good.
I am at a loss! 😢😢😢😢
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What about trying the mirtazapine again?
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I’m going to have to try the mirtazapine again Gnatty, what choice is there?
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I think the last time you didn't really give it long enough to do it's work properly. Try and keep going with it and hopefully you will notice a good difference.
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Urrggh Gnatty please help...
I’ve developed a carpel tunnel type pain in my arm and hand.
Had it for around a month.
Been seen and told it will go eventually.
I’ve got amitriptyline for the pain.
No sleep last night.
I’m scared of this mirtazapine for some reason.
Nerve pain, menopause anxiety and insomnia. What a mess! 😢😢😢
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Carpal tunnel syndrome is common in pregnancy. It may not 'go eventually'! CTS sometimes requires surgical release. It will depend which fingers are affected as to which nerves are involved. I can't remember which : usually the outer 2 fingers mean 1 nerve route, the other 3 a different nerve.
There are 'Futuro' (trade name) splints to wear at night which can ease symptoms. I believe they can be bought from pharamacists. Don't be fobbed off if symptoms fail to resolve!
If you don't want to take the 'mirtazapine'. :-\ ........ then stop worrying about it. Stick with the regime you are on currently.
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Nas I am so sorry you are struggling. Try and explain why you are frightened of mirtazapine. I reckon if you had taken it last night you would have had a good night's sleep. The world is a different place when we have slept. When we are sleep deprived we are unable to make sensible decisions. I reckon at this moment the way you are feeling it's your best option - your GP must think it will help you. Whatever you decide please don't keep chopping and changing. If you choose to try the mirtazapine write a note to yourself that you will give it a decent length of time. See what your GP says, he might say try it for 6 weeks and then take a view. It's difficult for me to tell you what to do as I am not your doctor. I can only share my own experience!
Regarding your hrt. You said you tolerate 75 but not 100 patch. What happened when you tried 100 and did you give it long enough to settle??
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Hi! 75 to 100 is quite a hike. Some find that taking the extra twice a week with a gap is helpful. It really is Trial and Error which makes finding a regime which suits hard work.
Your GP wouldn't have given you a drug if it wasn't appropriate. A friend finds that one useful. Another uses 'sertraline' with success. Both had fears about it but like myself years ago, really had no choices.
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I don't know what is happening any longer.
Bloods show a decent level of O with the 75 patch after three months, but the anxiety and insomnia remain as strong as ever.
Gnatty, I tried the 100 a year ago for 3 months, It didn't do anything, other than make me more anxious and jittery.
I wonder if I should give it another go?
You are right about the mirtazapine. I just don't like to take these prescription drugs. I fear the side effects and just don't want to be dependent, but as you say, there isn't much choice right now!
I don't know if I need more or less Oestrogen in my body. Would the additional O curb the anxiety... would it not.. who knows.
CLKD.. I am going back to the GP re the arm, as the pain is unbearable at night, regardless of whether it will go or not.
I have a spint which does zero. It is not carpel tunnel, but similar in the elbow area, but travels to the wrist and forearm.
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Nas,
I’m so sorry to read about your anxiety and pain. It’s just so overwhelming isn’t it.
Please rethink the martazepine. You obviously need extra help right now. Take them properly though, or they won’t work. You can always taper off them in a few months if you are better.
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Pain like you describe can be due to problems in the cervical spine; behind the elbow; or at wrist level. Do check your posture when sitting for long periods as well as your foot wear. Old worn down heels/soles or too high heels can cause problems from the feet upwards ::).
There are easy tests that the GP can do to find out if it's carpal tunnel etc.. They may not have been trained thus these days though. Let us know how you get on?
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Well tonight is the night I start mirtazapine properly.
Last night was hell on earth. Body was shaking, heart racing and just awake all night long. Clearly the 75 isn’t enough Oestrogen for me and I need more. With that, I’ve slapped on 100 patch and will leave it there. By tomorrow the period pain will have kicked in and bleeding will start by the weekend. That’s how it goes when I try to increase.
Speaking to the carpel tunnel consultant tomorrow hopefully re my arm pain.
Seriously, did I survive breast cancer, to spend my days trying to feel well? I felt better whilst on chemo!
Thanks all. Really appreciate your input and support x
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That's an orthopeadic consultant Nas? Let us know how you get on. Hopefully he/she will do the proper test to determine the nerve route involved.
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How are you getting on Nas? X
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Not great Suzy 😕
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Did U see someone about the ? carpal tunnel syndrome ?
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I’ve got a phone appointment mid December re: the arm. It comes and goes. Just about manageable I would say. Not what I need right now though.
My body just isn’t right.
As I predicted, period pains and bleeding by Friday, with the patch increase. Emailed gynecologist as will need a biopsy now to check womb lining I expect.
Thought I would switch to sandrena gel as the patch isn’t cutting all the symptoms. Now riddled with headache and irritability. Feeling hot too.
Christ, what is one meant to do during this f #####g menopause? It’s just hell on earth!
Still haven’t taken mirtazapine as I’ve been taking amitriptyline for the nerve pain. Don’t know if I can take both together?
If I’ve got a thickened womb lining from this damm HRT, god alone knows what is next!
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It can take a while B4 HRT kicks in and the body levels out. Sometimes the body simply doesn't. Trial and Error can be so tiring!
A 'phone appt.? Have a note of how the arm feels and if symptoms are worse in the night. So that nothing you want to explain is missed ;-).
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My fear Is that my body simply isn’t going to level out with Hrt, yet im going to suffer symptoms along the way!
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And can't fear be a controller >:(. I had a phobia from age 3 :-\. 24/7. No respite.
When I want a cure I want it yesterday . HRT don't kick in suddenly as the body has to 'uptake' the medication first.
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Sorry you’re struggling so much Nas. Maybe you could up the dose of amitriptaline ? It will help the anxiety.
Good luck with the drs call.
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Well, day one of no HRT andI have felt fine today!
I can hold a conversation, energy, not anxious.. just normal.
I guess it won't last and the symptoms will be back soon enough. Truth is, I don't want HRT. I hate it.
Localised ostrogen for the lower portions - fine.
Systemic HRT for the rest of me..no thanks (unless I have to)
Oh dear, well we shall see what the next few months brings.
I am requesting an increase in the amitriptyline for anxiety and sleep (my two main symptoms).
Mirtazapine is on stand by if things get bad.
For now, a day at a time :-)