Quote:
Originally Posted by r010159
Where did you hear this? I have read that if caught early enough there should be no problem. That is why it is a good idea to report any rash to your doctor ASAP. And this is why many doctors discontinue the medication at the first signs of a rash. I have also read if titrated up slowly enough, there is something like a one out of 10,000 chance of getting the rash. My doctor tells me this has never happened in the history of his practice. He has been in practice for over 30 years. On one job, he has an active case load of hundreds of patients. Then there is his private practice.
Please do not let your expectation bias (irrational fears) interpret what you read about this drug. You would be unnecessarily limiting your options. Get the information directly from a professional, like you own doctor.  |
It's true the slow titration significantly decreases risk (so does being post-adolescent), so it is about 1 in 10,000. To someone without health phobias it would seem to be worth the risk, but unfortunately that is not me. It is true that once you show signs of the rash - if it's SJS and not a much more common mild allergy - there is nothing you can do but let it run its course and treat the symptoms. Even if you stop the meds right away it's still going to do it's thing, which is unpredictable. I am definitely NOT trying to make a case against lamictal based on this - I realize I am being totally irrational - but the rash fear is reason enough for me to avoid it, only because it triggers major anxiety (when I took Zyrtec for the 1st time I did it the parking lot of an emergency room "just in case" - that gives you an idea!)
Perhaps if they tranquilize me with something first and then feed me the lamictal
I managed to schedule an app. next week with a difference psychiatrist who is rumored to be much more understanding and open-minded...hopefully she will have some ideas, but I really appreciate everyone's comments!