Posted by JohnL on July 2, 1999, at 16:58:43
In reply to Pindolol???, posted by Steve on July 2, 1999, at 16:00:33
> I've never heard of this drug. Is it new? What is it's primary purpose (usage)?
I put a couple posts on this page about Pindolol. Others have posted too. Interesting stuff, check 'em out. It is not new. It is used to treat high blood pressure. However, it is used in smaller doses that does not affect blood pressure but does display the potential to accelerate and potentiate antidepressants. It's hard to explain, but in crude fashion it blocks a receptor in the brain that senses serotonin levels. The brain is tricked into opening the valve on serotonin production. It is the only hypertensive drug that has this unique characteristic. It is reported to work best with serotonin-type drugs like SSRIs. In Dr Bob's Pharmacology Tips one doctor said it produced a wonderful response in a patient taking Wellbutrin. Like everything else though, it might work and it might not. Only a personal trial will tell. It must be catching on though, because even my smalltown family doctor has been writing prescriptions for it to augment antidepressants. It has minimal if any effect on blood pressure at the low doses used. Side effects very mild, if any. Response rapid. I can tell after just three days. An extra benefit for me, it nearly eliminates my tinnitus (ringing in the ear). Way too early to rejoice, but I have to admit I'm quite encouraged, more so than ever in the last 2 years on a zillion different drugs. It should almost be standard practice to prescribe it to anyone getting started on an SSRI because it can bring relief in days rather than weeks or months. That is so important. I couldn't imagine being a doctor and not using it to bring my patients the fastest possible relief with such minimal risks and minimal side effects (if any). It would be cruel not to try. Best of all, it's cheap. Anyway, back up and check out the posts. A site at NYU gives interesting info, as does Dr Bob's Tips, or a word search on Pindolol. Best to you. JohnL.
poster:JohnL
thread:8160
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19990628/msgs/8164.html