Posted by Cam W. on January 9, 2001, at 8:55:05
In reply to Serzone Info Needed, posted by Learning on January 9, 2001, at 0:44:58
Learning - Unfortunately (fortunately?) everyone has different biochemical make-ups. Even within the same family, meds will work differently for each person (even in identical twins, but usually they react more similar than most others).
We still don't have a complete picture of what makes us work (or any of those neat Dr.McCoy scanner things). So, we can only guess if a drug will work in a certain person. In most cases, the first med tried for depression will work, but as many on this board will attest (including myself), this is not always the case.
It has been my experience that Serzone (nefazodone) works well in a subgroup of people with depression. I have seen more luck with the TCAs and SSRIs, but, as you mention, several of their long-term side effects really bite. Serzone does seem to have a much less propensity of causing sexual dysfuntion, but I have seen people gain weight with the drug. Whether this is due to an increased appetite from a resolution of the depression, I am not sure. With Paxil, the weight gain occurs in many people, partially because of carbohydrate cravings. You can minimize the weight gain with the SSRIs by (very) diligently watching what you eat and exercising regularily.
Zoloft seems to cause less weight gain (on average) than Paxil (seeming the worst offender of the SSRIs), but sexual dysfunction occurs with this med, as well.
Remember, with side effects, you are playing the odds. Not everyone gains weight, nor has sexual problems, but some people aren't willing to gamble. The important thing is that you give any antidepressant a 6 to 8 week trial before giving up on it.
Good luck - Cam
poster:Cam W.
thread:51236
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20001231/msgs/51243.html