[Tammy Cronrath]

Hi,
I have dealt with anxiety and depression for years, but have done very well for 15 or more years. I take a low does old anti depressant (nortriptylene 35 mg) and do well. A few years ago I developed some androgen type problems; seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea and hairloss. My endocrinologist had me on a drug that helped called spironolactone. However, last spring it became uneffective and the androgens symptoms came back. He started me on a drug called androcur (cyperone acetate) and it has worked well. It is a very strong progestin. It appears depression can be a side effect to a small percentage of treatment. I have noticed since starting it and then also upping the dosage, that I am so irritable (my depression is the agitated kind). Even my teenage sons have noticed a difference. I don't want to stop this drug as it has helped me and don't want to loose anymore hair. Has anyone heard of this drug? Any experiences with it?

Thanx

Tammy

[sabby]

Hi Tammy,

I can't help you with the kinds of drugs and/or experiences but wondered if you can change the doseage of the nortriptylene to help with the agitation of the depression? If not, maybe adding another kind of AD to the mix may help?

I hope you find a solution soon. Take care!

sabby

[Fresia]

I have not had experience with that specific med but am on other treatments that affect my depression and moods. It is an on-going issue: start one then it affects the others that am already on or one gets increased then decreases the affects of another. This is especially true of any treatments I have had through the endocrinologist as many for me are hormonal based; they affect my AD's and anti-psych meds that they then need to be adjusted. It is just a balancing act but by adjusting them when this happens, they do level out and keep me stable.

Consider talking to your pdoc or GP, whomever prescribes your AD, about what is going on. It is not uncommon for other meds to influence your other treatments. I have not wanted to raise the AD meds in the past either but if it keeps me balanced, symptom free, and safe, it is worth it to me.

I hope you find a balance soon and that you don't have to give up one for the other.