DIDN'T ANSWER PROZAC AND OTHER QUESTIONS

DR. I am going back to one on one therapy. I had to find someone outside Kaiser.
I was hoping you would answer my questions about Prozac that I asked; also the thyroid issues.  these are very important.  Shouldn't the Prozac be working after 9 weeks on 20mg. without the side effects and daily emotional problems, crying, thoughts etc?  Can Thyroid meds help WITH OR WITHOUT the Prozac?

I have been let down by Kaiser; my husband is very upset with the way I have been treated also.  This has been a trying time.

Please answer these other questions I asked yesterday.  I know therapy will be benificial; but these Dr's have me on these meds too and I need to know about them.  I am desperate for answers from someone who has knowledge and understanding for what I am going through.  This is a devastating illness and as you must know, motivation is not a top priority with people with depression and anxiety; It takes all the courage I can muster just to sit down and write to you; PLEASE HELP GIVE ME SOME INSIGHT ABOUT THESE MEDICATIONS.  Maybe I am not responding like I did when I was in my 40's.  Maybe I needed them then and not so much now.  I DON'T KNOW/ I AM NOT A PROFESSIONAL; PLEASE, PLEASE GIVE ME THE BENIFIT OF YOUR EXPERTISE. I WOULD BE VERY GRATEFUL


thank you

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

I think I have answered you, but let me give it another try. Your dose of prozac is still quite low and can be increased if not effective.  The dose you are now on may not be enough now even though it was in the past because of the intensity of your feelings. The more intense, the more medication is necessary.

On the other hand, people can be helped without any medication if they are with the right doctor.  It sounds like you have started that, so I would put more hope in that then medications alone, even though medications can help in the short run.

I am not sure re the thyroid issue.  If you are out of balance, for sure you should take care of that. But if your thyroid level is normal, I wouldn't recommend making any changes.