Long-Term Use of SSRIs: Health Risks and Withdrawal Concerns Explained
Antidepressants Hello Doctor: Previously, I experienced symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, and poor sleep quality. The doctor diagnosed it as autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and I took Escitalopram for a year before stopping the medication. However, within les...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Due to high pressure from work and life, I am uncertain whether it is appropriate to stop taking medication. I would like to ask the doctor if long-term use of SSRIs can cause harm to health. A: No, it won't. I have seen articles stating that these medications can disrupt se...[Read More] Long-Term Use of SSRIs: Health Risks and Withdrawal Concerns Explained
Managing Anxiety and Panic: Understanding Symptoms and Treatment Options
Anxiety/Panic-related Hello Doctor, my issue began over a year ago. Initially, I frequently experienced rapid heartbeats, shortness of breath, tingling in my scalp, and anxiety, which required me to lie down for a while to recover. The situation escalated after a workout when I c...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
The issue truly escalated after a certain exercise session when I couldn't calm down, experiencing hyperventilation, dizziness, and seeing only black and white outlines, which led me to take an ambulance to the emergency room. For several days, I had these symptoms, causing ...[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Panic: Understanding Symptoms and Treatment Options
Understanding Obsessive Thoughts: Coping with Anxiety and Fear
I think I might have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) with obsessive thoughts? Hello, doctor. I often find myself worrying about many things that may or may not happen. For example, recently I've been very anxious about someone breaking into my home, and I frequently chec...
Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello Xiaorong: It seems that you are experiencing symptoms of obsessive thinking, but whether it is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) needs to be assessed in person by a physician. Since this situation has clearly affected your daily life, I recommend that you seek help from a...[Read More] Understanding Obsessive Thoughts: Coping with Anxiety and Fear
Managing Attention Issues and Depression: Medication Side Effects Explained
Memory loss, lack of concentration, depression, medication side effects? Hello, doctor. I have been dealing with depression for four years. I once stopped my medication and ended up having a mental breakdown. For the past year, I have been consistently taking my medication. Curre...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Distractibility can be a symptom or a side effect of medication. You are taking several medications, many of which can affect attention. It is recommended that you return for a follow-up appointment to discuss with your physician to clarify whether the issue is related to ...[Read More] Managing Attention Issues and Depression: Medication Side Effects Explained
Understanding Side Effects of Antipsychotic Medications: A Patient's Guide
Schizophrenia Doctor, I took Ubiquinone and Anxiolytic medication last night, and when I woke up the next morning, I felt groggy and had a headache. Are these side effects? Is this considered normal?
Dr. Cai Qijin Reply:
Hello: When starting treatment with Sertraline (Zoloft) and Aripiprazole (Abilify), a small number of individuals may experience side effects such as nausea, headache, and drowsiness. If these side effects are not severe, it is usually advisable to monitor them for a few days, as...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Antipsychotic Medications: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Psychiatric Hospitalization and Medication Effects
Psychiatric hospitalization I would like to ask when I can return to the psychiatric ward after being discharged. Also, will the medication Yongkangxu make me feel like I'm not myself, with reduced sensation in my limbs? Or is it the effect of the sleep medication? I have be...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
If you are not experiencing any symptoms, there is no need to return to the hospital. The medication Yongkangxu will not alter your consciousness or cause numbness in your limbs; this may be due to sedative or sleep medications, such as Zolpidem. Dr. Wu Enliang.[Read More] Understanding Psychiatric Hospitalization and Medication Effects
Understanding the Sexual Side Effects of Valdoxan and Lozepam
The issues related to side effects of medications associated with sexual activity, including excessive flashing and changes in mood? Hello Dr. Wu, last year a relative of mine passed away by suicide, which has led to insomnia and mild depressive symptoms. I started seeing a psych...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Valdoxan (agomelatine) rarely causes sexual dysfunction and is one of the preferred medications for major depressive disorder in patients who are concerned about sexual side effects. Lozepam (loxapine), a benzodiazepine sedative, is more likely to cause sexual dysfunction and is ...[Read More] Understanding the Sexual Side Effects of Valdoxan and Lozepam
Is My Brother's Condition Delusional Disorder or OCD?
Could you please tell me if this is a case of delusional disorder? My younger brother started having some bizarre thoughts in high school, and his academic performance plummeted. He was later diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and has been on medication for four y...
Dr. Li Guanying Reply:
From your letter, it is clear that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to concerns about your family member's delusions and hallucinations, as well as the associated mental health symptoms. 1. Schizophrenia, like chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertens...[Read More] Is My Brother's Condition Delusional Disorder or OCD?
Sleep Aid Options for Breastfeeding Moms: Safety and Recommendations
During the breastfeeding period, please advise on the use of sleeping medications? Hello Dr. Lee! I am a breastfeeding mother, and my child is currently 14 months old. Recently, my child has been waking up more frequently at night to nurse, making it increasingly difficult for me...
Dr. Li Guanying Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is clear that you are experiencing distress. However, if you are concerned about the use of sleeping medications during breastfeeding, it is advisable to have your condition evaluated by a physician. As for which medication is better between ...[Read More] Sleep Aid Options for Breastfeeding Moms: Safety and Recommendations
Can I Alternate Between Ambien and Lunesta for Sleep Issues?
Can Amberen be taken alternately with UroLift? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing sleep disorders for about 10 years, and most doctors have diagnosed me with anxiety. The sleep medication prescribed helps me fall asleep more quickly, but I usually wake up after about 4 hours ...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Both medications are benzodiazepines (BZDs) and can be taken alternately, but it's advisable to use them only for a short term to avoid the risk of dependence. Dr. Wu En-Liang.[Read More] Can I Alternate Between Ambien and Lunesta for Sleep Issues?
Managing Anxiety Medications: Tips for Panic Disorder Relief
Anxiolytic medication consultation, medication issues, panic disorder? I would like to ask the doctor, I have been prescribed medication for panic disorder and have been taking it for six months. After achieving stability, the doctor advised me to practice tapering off the medica...
Dr. Huang Zhijia Reply:
Hello: Each patient is unique, and there is no formula or SOP that can be applied to every patient. The physician who examines the patient in person is the one who understands the patient's condition best and can make the appropriate management decisions. It is recommended t...[Read More] Managing Anxiety Medications: Tips for Panic Disorder Relief
Sleep Aid Options for Breastfeeding Moms: Safety and Recommendations
During the breastfeeding period, please advise on the use of sleeping medications? Hello Dr. Lee! I am a breastfeeding mother, and my child is currently 14 months old. Recently, my child has been waking up more frequently at night to nurse, which has made it increasingly difficul...
Dr. Li Guanying Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is clear that you are experiencing distress. However, if you are concerned about the use of sleep medications during breastfeeding, it is advisable to have your condition evaluated by a physician. Regarding the combination of medications, a p...[Read More] Sleep Aid Options for Breastfeeding Moms: Safety and Recommendations
Timing Matters: Optimizing Antidepressants and Sleep Medications for Better Sleep
Antidepressants and sleeping pills: Timing of medication? Hello, doctor. Recently, I came across information online stating that if someone has difficulty falling asleep, and since antidepressants do not shorten the time to sleep as quickly as sleeping pills, one could take the a...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Recently, there has been information circulating online suggesting that for individuals experiencing difficulty falling asleep, since antidepressants do not shorten sleep onset time as quickly as sleeping pills, one could take antidepressants 30 minutes earlier than sleeping pill...[Read More] Timing Matters: Optimizing Antidepressants and Sleep Medications for Better Sleep
Managing Anxiety Medications: Side Effects and Concerns Explained
Anxiety disorder medications Hello, doctor! I was recently diagnosed with panic disorder and my doctor prescribed Lexapro 30 mg to be taken every morning. However, after taking it, I often feel disoriented and have difficulty functioning at work. Is this normal? Should I continue...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Changing to a regular dinner time in the evening will generally lead to improvements. - Dr. Wu En-Liang[Read More] Managing Anxiety Medications: Side Effects and Concerns Explained
Managing Anxiety and Panic Attacks with Heart Rhythm Disorders: A Guide
Medication consultation, drug side effects, panic, autonomic nervous system dysregulation? I would like to ask the doctor, I have a history of arrhythmia and have undergone echocardiography, a 24-hour Holter monitor, and an exercise stress test, which detected premature ventricul...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Your condition is likely related to anxiety (autonomic nervous system dysregulation). It is advisable to continue visiting a psychosomatic medicine specialist for improvement. You may use Yuli Shu as a backup medication. If you are concerned about potential side effects su...[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Panic Attacks with Heart Rhythm Disorders: A Guide
Understanding Side Effects of Antidepressants and Alternative Treatments
Side effects of antidepressants? Hello Doctor, my family member has been experiencing anxiety, restlessness, and panic, occasionally showing symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts. After consulting a psychiatrist, it was determined that there is an issue with autonomic nerv...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
1. If someone has only taken Levodopa for two days (a total of one pill), should they expect withdrawal symptoms? A: No. 2. If a patient experiences severe side effects from multiple SSRIs, does that indicate they are unsuitable for SSRIs? A: Yes. 3. If a patient is very sensitiv...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Antidepressants and Alternative Treatments
Understanding Anxiety Medications: Effects, Side Effects, and Efficacy
Because I don't like taking a lot of medication, I want to understand the effects of the drugs themselves so that I will be more willing to take them? I have issues with anxiety and I usually take Yu-Kang capsules. Sometimes I feel very sleepy, and I would like to ask if thi...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Hello, I have a problem with anxiety disorder. I usually take Yekang capsules, and sometimes I feel very sleepy. I would like to ask if this symptom of sleepiness will go away over time? A: Generally, it will. What are the more common side effects? A: The more common side effects...[Read More] Understanding Anxiety Medications: Effects, Side Effects, and Efficacy
Understanding Diarrhea and Anxiety: Insights from a Psychiatric Perspective
Bowel movement issues Hello Doctor: I have been dealing with anxiety issues, possibly stemming from taking care of my father who had esophageal cancer about 4 to 5 years ago. Since then, I have become very concerned about my own health. I have experienced diarrhea in the past, bu...
Dr. Wang Yixiang Reply:
Dear Mr. Hsiao-Kang, It seems that your main issues are diarrhea and anxiety. While the two may potentially influence each other, we prioritize treating them separately for simplicity. I recommend discussing the causes and treatment of your diarrhea with a gastroenterologist. Ad...[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Anxiety: Insights from a Psychiatric Perspective
Switching from Latuda to Rexulti: Managing Side Effects in Schizophrenia Treatment
Switching from Lurasidone 40 mg to Risperidone 1 mg, what are the related side effects? The patient started medication for schizophrenia on July 22, taking Lurasidone 40 mg for nearly a year. They sleep approximately 9 hours a day but often feel fatigued and lack interest in acti...
Dr. Huang Zhijia Reply:
Hello: If you are not the physician who issued this prescription, please consult the prescribing physician.[Read More] Switching from Latuda to Rexulti: Managing Side Effects in Schizophrenia Treatment
Managing Side Effects of Anxiolytics: A Guide for Patients and Families
Side effects of tranquilizers? Hello doctor, my family member has been experiencing anxiety, restlessness, and panic, along with frequent feelings of rapid breathing and shortness of breath. The psychiatrist initially prescribed Lorazepam 0.5 mg to be taken as needed. Since my fa...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Benzodiazepines (BZD) are sedatives that are generally recommended for short-term use or as needed. They are not considered first-line medications (other antidepressants should typically be used as first-line treatments). If medication is necessary, it is advisable to discuss it ...[Read More] Managing Side Effects of Anxiolytics: A Guide for Patients and Families