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Post-menopause and Antidepressants

Posted , 2 users are following.

Cass63
Cass63

Hello Ladies,

I was wondering if any of the postmenopause ladies in this group take any kind of antidepressants and if so do they help? I have been told during postmenopause is when most ladies turn to antidepressants. The only one that could be prescribed for me is Zoloft because of the heart medication I take. I have really tried hard not to go this route but the anxiety has gotten uncontrollable. I have no quality of life with this anxiety. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

2 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • stella21064
    stella21064 Cass63

    Posted

    I'm on a very, very low dose of Amitriptyline (5 mg) which I take around 7 pm. I usually do terribly on antidepressants (I turn almost manic) but this is an old-school anti-d and I promised my family I would stay on it for a month because of my lack of appetite and extreme weight loss. I've lost about 50 lbs over the last year.

    It's supposed to give you an appetite but to be honest I don't notice much difference. The only time I (sometimes) feel like eating is throughout the night or after a good nap - that is, if I can take a nap. But it's always been that way since this started. On my bad days, I live on crackers. And I drink lots of water no matter what. I just bought some Pedialyte Chocolate Grow & Gain in the hopes of putting on some weight. Menopause and the fear of not sleeping have stolen my appetite away.

    I'm on Day 23 of the antidepressant.

    I feel no different.

    My benzo is what helps me the most and always has.

    I've never found antidepressants to help with anxiety, but that's just me.

    Good luck to you and God Bless xx

    • Cass63
      Cass63 stella21064

      Posted

      I have just started the Zoloft. I have tried my hardest to avoid this decision, but the anxiety is controlling my life. I have battled it for years, but this past December it amped up to a whole new level, one I can no longer control. The panic attacks come out of nowhere and I never know when they will come upon me. I am fearful to leave my house but have them at home as well. I have been on this journey since 2009 and I can honestly say postmenopause by far has been the worst for me. So much of what you are going through and experiencing I am too. It is so hard and it is even harder for my family to understand.

      I am praying the medication will make a difference. I pray you can find something that will help you. I will keep you in my prayers.

      GOD Bless

    • Cass63
      Cass63 stella21064

      Posted

      Hello Stella,

      Hope you are doing better. I am the same, the anti depressent did not help with me so I stopped taking them. What benzo do you take? I have taken alprazolam in the past and it helped but it has stopped working. I have been prescribed clonazopam as needed. Do you have to take your benzo regular to work or as needed basis? This is such a scary time.

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