Will SNRI Medications Like Effexor Affect Urine Drug Tests?
SNRI urine screening Hello Doctor, I recently started a new job, and the company requires a urine drug screening to check for any drug reactions. I have been taking Lofepramine, which was prescribed by my psychiatrist for a long time. I would like to know if this SNRI could cau...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: There will be no reaction, please rest assured. Dr. Wu En-Liang.[Read More] Will SNRI Medications Like Effexor Affect Urine Drug Tests?
Managing Panic Disorder: Why Am I Still Struggling with Breathing?
Still feeling unwell despite taking medication? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with panic disorder several years ago and took medication for about six months before I started to feel better. Since then, I've been taking it intermittently. Before going out, driving, or when I ...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online friend: It seems that the main medication currently is Lede, which takes about 2 to 4 weeks to take effect. It is recommended to continue taking the medication as prescribed by your doctor during this time. The side effects of these medications are manageable, so th...[Read More] Managing Panic Disorder: Why Am I Still Struggling with Breathing?
Understanding Medication Withdrawal and Dosage Adjustments in Psychiatry
Drug withdrawal and dosage issues? Hello Doctor, I experienced significant weight loss and insomnia due to gastrointestinal issues last December. I have been using "Alprazolam 0.5mg" before bedtime to help with sleep for over three months now. Currently, I am relying on...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online user: 1. Is "Zanax 0.25mg" equivalent to half the dose of "Alprazolam 0.5mg" (both are Alprazolam)? I need to be certain about this before proceeding with the tapering process. I'm concerned that the potency of the medication may vary betwee...[Read More] Understanding Medication Withdrawal and Dosage Adjustments in Psychiatry
Understanding OCD: Is It Just a Personality Quirk or a Deeper Issue?
Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD)? Doctor, I apologize for the interruption, but I would like to ask for your advice. I am 29 years old, and I have been experiencing some concerns s...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: After reading your description, I understand the suffering you are experiencing in your life, which may indeed be due to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I recommend seeking treatment at a mental health facility. Dr. Wu Enliang.[Read More] Understanding OCD: Is It Just a Personality Quirk or a Deeper Issue?
Finding the Right Psychiatrist in Taipei for English-Speaking Patients
Inquiry about bringing medical records from other locations for consultation? Hello, if I carry my personal medical history (psychiatry) in English while traveling, and my Mandarin speaking and listening skills are average, which psychiatric department in Taipei or which doctor w...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: The English reading ability of physicians in Taiwan is generally not an issue. Regarding confidentiality, according to the Medical Act, physicians are required to maintain confidentiality; otherwise, they will be in violation of the law. As for recommending a phys...[Read More] Finding the Right Psychiatrist in Taipei for English-Speaking Patients
Imaginary Friends or Dissociative Identity? Understanding Your Experience
Imaginary friends or dissociative identity disorder? Hello, I have had imaginary friends for as long as I can remember (I am now 25 years old). Some leave, while new ones appear, and some even dislike me. We have conversations in my mind (or I talk to myself when alone). I know t...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: It is indeed possible that there are other personalities. If they do not affect your daily life, it may be best to coexist peacefully with them. However, if they cause significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical treatment. Dr. Wu Enliang[Read More] Imaginary Friends or Dissociative Identity? Understanding Your Experience
Navigating Forced Treatment for Mental Health: A Mother's Dilemma
Involuntary treatment in psychiatry? Hello, doctor. I am a single mother, and my son has developed a habit of taking sleeping pills. I was not aware of this until recently; he has been taking 10 mg of Zolpidem. About three to four months ago, he lost his job, and I later found ou...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: Thank you for your hard work. I suggest you first contact the local community mental health center or health station for assistance. Call and inform the mental health caseworker about your son's situation; a public health nurse will come to assess him. In som...[Read More] Navigating Forced Treatment for Mental Health: A Mother's Dilemma
Understanding Extrapyramidal Symptoms: Is It Withdrawal from Rifampin?
Extrapyramidal syndrome I have mild symptoms that are suspected to be extrapyramidal syndrome, mainly characterized by upward eye movement, protruding tongue, and restlessness. Initially, I experienced slight symptoms (upward eye movement) and took Rifaximin. After discussing thi...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online user: If the eyes are constantly looking upward, the tongue is protruding, and there is restlessness, it may still be a case of extrapyramidal syndrome. Ropinirole can be effective for restlessness, but it has limited effects on other symptoms. Dr. Wu Enliang.[Read More] Understanding Extrapyramidal Symptoms: Is It Withdrawal from Rifampin?
Managing Anxiety and Medication: Understanding the Risks of Xanax Use
The use of Zanaflex? I visited a cardiologist due to discomfort in my heart and was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse and autonomic nervous system dysfunction. I often experience rapid heart rates, and the doctor mentioned that my stress levels are too high. Subsequently, the ...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: Indeed, Xanax is a short-term solution and not a cure, and it is not advisable to take it daily for an extended period. Academic pressure can be quite distressing, but it is something we must face. I wonder if the counseling teacher has taught any relaxation techn...[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Medication: Understanding the Risks of Xanax Use
Overcoming Anxiety: Understanding Obsessive Thoughts and Their Impact
Obsessive thinking, anxiety, association? Hello, doctor. I apologize for the length of my message, and I appreciate your time. I have always known that I have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), but I have never seen a doctor about it. It started in elementary school and has flu...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online user: If it is truly distressing and affecting your daily life, I still recommend seeking medical attention for medication or psychological therapy! Dr. Wu En-Liang[Read More] Overcoming Anxiety: Understanding Obsessive Thoughts and Their Impact
Managing Withdrawal Symptoms from Sleep Medications in Psychiatry
Medication issues Doctor, I'm sorry to ask, but what should I do if I'm experiencing withdrawal symptoms from sleeping pills? 😭 Will I have to take sleeping pills for the rest of my life? 😭 Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: You may consider using medications that are less likely to cause dependence as a substitute, and enhance sleep hygiene, such as increasing physical activity. Ultimately, success is achievable. Dr. Wu Enliang[Read More] Managing Withdrawal Symptoms from Sleep Medications in Psychiatry
Guidelines for Safely Discontinuing Yongkang Medication
Details on the discontinuation of Yongkang medication? Hello, doctor. Previously, you mentioned that it is not difficult to discontinue Yongkangxu. Could you provide more specific details on the discontinuation process? I have attempted to stop the medication several times, but I...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: You can try taking half a pill for a week. If you feel fine, you can stop the medication afterward. Dr. Wu En-Liang.[Read More] Guidelines for Safely Discontinuing Yongkang Medication
Struggling with Focus and Communication: Understanding Mental Health Challenges
Inability to concentrate with a sense of distortion? Since kindergarten, I have been slower to react than my peers and have difficulty concentrating. When communicating with others, I take some time to think about how to respond. People have pointed out that sometimes what I say ...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online user: It is recommended to visit a psychiatric outpatient clinic for differential diagnosis to determine whether the issue is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or anxiety and depression. Appropriate treatment can then be administered based on the diagn...[Read More] Struggling with Focus and Communication: Understanding Mental Health Challenges
The Role of BDNF in ADHD: Enhancing Brain Function and Understanding
ADHD-related issues Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an active protein found in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). BDNF is the most abundant neurotrophic factor in the brain, where it regulates the growth and survival of neurons, prom...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: This excerpt from the textbook explains the mechanism of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in neurons, and it does not mention that it makes the brain smarter or improves comprehension. However, I believe that when this mechanism is dysregulated, cogn...[Read More] The Role of BDNF in ADHD: Enhancing Brain Function and Understanding
Understanding the Impact of Prednisolone on Mental Health Disorders
Steroids and Mental Illness Hello, Doctor. Recently, I sought treatment from an otolaryngologist due to a persistent cough following a cold that did not improve despite using various cough suppressants and expectorants (with normal X-ray and auscultation results). The doctor pres...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online user: Taking such a low dose of steroids for a short period will not have any significant impact on your mood, so you can take them with peace of mind. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Dr. Wu En-Liang[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Prednisolone on Mental Health Disorders
Understanding Sleep Paralysis and Dreaming: Causes and Solutions
Dream within a dream, making a sound halfway through sleep? I have been experiencing issues with dreaming within dreams, where I feel like I have woken up but struggle to open my eyes, only able to see a faint light. I also find it difficult to stretch out my hand to open my eyes...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: Generally, this kind of situation is temporary and may be related to recent anxiety or depression. However, if it occurs repeatedly, it is important to rule out specific sleep disorders, such as REM sleep behavior disorder or narcolepsy, which would require a medi...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Paralysis and Dreaming: Causes and Solutions
Building Confidence Amidst Negative Self-Perception: A Guide
It is difficult to have confidence? Hello Doctor: My relatives often describe me in negative ways, such as saying I've become old and unattractive, that I'll be lonely for life, that I won't get married, that I'm incompetent, overweight, lazy, and ugly. They f...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online friend: It's better to have less contact with relatives who often bring negative energy! As for your feelings of pain and thoughts of wanting to end your life, I am more concerned about the possibility of depression. I recommend calling the 1925 mental health h...[Read More] Building Confidence Amidst Negative Self-Perception: A Guide
Understanding Sexual Side Effects of Vick's Medication for Bipolar Disorder
The side effects of taking Wellbutrin (bupropion) for bipolar disorder? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if taking Wellbutrin for bipolar disorder can cause sexual dysfunction. Previously, when I was seeing a doctor at a mental health clinic, I was prescribed Bupropion, which I...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: Bibofen and Wicker are just different brands of the same active ingredient and generally do not cause sexual dysfunction. There are many reasons for sexual dysfunction, so it is advisable to discuss this with your physician. If it is a side effect of the medicatio...[Read More] Understanding Sexual Side Effects of Vick's Medication for Bipolar Disorder
Does Depression or Antidepressants Affect IQ Levels?
Does depression lead to a decrease in IQ? Hello doctor, since I developed atypical depression, I used to be able to memorize a passage in half an hour without forgetting it. However, now I can't memorize it even after a whole day, and I forget it immediately the next day. Co...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: Depression generally does not lead to a decrease in IQ, but during episodes of depression and anxiety, it can cause difficulties in concentrating, which may affect academic performance. It is advisable to seek proper treatment! Dr. Wu Enliang[Read More] Does Depression or Antidepressants Affect IQ Levels?
Coping with Paranoia: Non-Medication Strategies for Relief
Paranoid delusions? Doctor, I have some symptoms of paranoia. I constantly feel worried about various things, such as whether the packages I receive from online shopping are poisoned, if my drinks have been tampered with, and I feel like some people on the street might want to ha...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: This situation may not necessarily be a case of paranoid delusions; it could also be due to other conditions. It is advisable to seek medical attention for a differential diagnosis as soon as possible to determine the best treatment approach (which may not n...[Read More] Coping with Paranoia: Non-Medication Strategies for Relief