Re: Sertraline and Restless Legs Syndrome
Originally Posted by
ShiveringWhippet
I am thinking of trying a different SSRI (Fluvoxamine?) or perhaps Vanlafaxine.
You're thinking of switching because of the restless legs (RL)?
Because of the way fluvoxamine is metabolized it can interact with many medications so maybe not the best med if you have other health issues. I'd avoid venlafaxine. Because of its short half-life it can be difficult to discontinue and is sometimes a rough ride at the beginning too. It has no real advantage over other SSRIs (despite the claims it is not a true SNRI). It is as likely to trigger RL as sertraline.
Lack of sleep seriously affects my depression and anxiety, so I need to get this sorted. I've had a good run since the New Year but I am starting to feel the lack of sleep now.
Some of the over-the-counter herbal supplements can be effective, if not see your GP as SSRI induced insomnia is quite common. Skip mirtazapine if it's offered as it will likely exacerbate the RL issue. Immediate-release trazodone (Desyrel) is the med of choice for SSRI induced insomnia in many countries, but I believe it can be hard to get a prescription for it in the UK, however, there's no harm in asking (it may also help with the sexual dysfunction). It is unlikely to worsen the RL, nor is the old sedating TCA doxepin, however, I'm not sure if it's still available in the UK.
Just as well I am incredibly young, and even more incredibly innocent, or I could be having an attack of the vapours about now!
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The opinions expressed above are based on my observations and, where applicable, interpretation of cited data and are general in nature. Consult your physician before acting on anything stated.