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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 6 of 6. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Rainee on March 28, 2003, at 21:04:37
I have to try something else in addition to my lexapro. I'm scared of geodon because of the heart thing. I was gonna take a little bit of it but it is a capsule so I can't break it.
I just don't know what to do.. I tried lamictal despite the rash warning.. I wonder what the chances are I would have the heart thing with geodon? How do you cope?
Posted by utopizen on March 28, 2003, at 21:51:07
In reply to How does someone overcome thier fear of taking med, posted by Rainee on March 28, 2003, at 21:04:37
but whenever they try to test it out in patients, there seems to be a compliance problem for some reason.
=)
But seriously... I wouldn't be concerned with anything your doctor wasn't concerned to bring up with you.
Posted by djmmm on March 28, 2003, at 22:14:01
In reply to How does someone overcome thier fear of taking med, posted by Rainee on March 28, 2003, at 21:04:37
Honestly, I wouldn't worry...unless you have a history of low concentrations of potassium in the blood (hypokalemia).
You could get an ECG, which would determine a baseline QTC level. QT refers to the interval between two points (Q and T) on the ECG. A prolonged QT interval indicates that there may be an irregular heart contraction (tachycardia). If all is well, You will have no problem with geodon...If you are still worried, taking a beta-blocker like Inderal will most likely prevent any possible problem, as well will an increase in postassium intake.
For what it's worth.. in a clinical study of Geodon, 0.06% of the tested population had an altered QT
Posted by stjames on March 29, 2003, at 16:32:49
In reply to How does someone overcome thier fear of taking med, posted by Rainee on March 28, 2003, at 21:04:37
why are you conserned about somethig that happens 0.06% of the time ?
Posted by mopey on March 31, 2003, at 22:24:13
In reply to Re: How does someone overcome thier fear of taking med, posted by stjames on March 29, 2003, at 16:32:49
> why are you conserned about somethig that happens 0.06% of the time ?
People who suffer from acute anxiety do worry about things that other people rationalize as being farfetched or unlikely.
I, for instance, find myself imagining the worst-case scenario for many everyday routines involving my family.
I know taking meds is often important, but the other part of my brain knows that I'll be the one who suffers that horrendous side effect.
It may not make sense on paper, or even when I'm feeling more rational, but when you're in that moment it's very real and frightening.
Posted by Mama Bear on April 1, 2003, at 23:04:26
In reply to Re: How does someone overcome thier fear of taking med, posted by stjames on March 29, 2003, at 16:32:49
I think that you are justified in fearing medications. There is alot of guess works when it comes to psychiatry. Some of these drugs can and do come with permanent side effects. Do your research then you will be informed and educated on psychiatric medications. You owe yourself that much. If you have a fear go with your first instincts. Read Your drug could be your Problem by Dr. Peter Breggin. Mama Bear
This is the end of the thread.
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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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