Psychotropic meds and pituitary tumor

[jjb]

I am wondering if you are aware of studies or information that would contraindicate the use of psychotropic drugs (such as benzodiazepines or SSRIs or SNRIs) when one has a non-functioning pituitary macroadenoma.  Could introducing such drugs impact tumor growth or cause other problems relating to the tumor?  I have not used these medications in the past, but am experiencing some anxiety and related concerns and would like to have the option, but do not want to do anything that could exacerbate the tumor.  Right now I am in the monitoring phase to see how fast the tumor is growing and when it may impact my vision (currently, it is 1.1 but it is near the optic nerve area).  Thanks in advance for your time and assistance!

[momtaylor]

I was diagnosed with a pituitary adenoma in Oct 2000. I had had this pressured, squeezing headache for a solid month before I broke down and went to see a dr. I had NO insurance at the time and between my hubby and I, we made to much money to get state aid, consequently it was impossible to find a neurosurgeon to see me.
Early in Jan 2001, my primary dr called the state offices and informed them that it was imperative that I get medical assistance due to the fact the tumor was growing and it had enveloped my optic nerves. He told them that without insurance I couldn't get treatment and without treatment I would be dead within 6 months.
Talk about scared to death. Here I was, blind in both eyes (I could see something if it were placed 2 inches in front of me) by now and walking hunched over and tottering from side/side as my balance was off also. My hands wouldn't grasp things right so I was virtually reduced to sitting in a chair all day, doing nothing, at the age of 42. Lo and behold I got the aid and finally found a surgeon.
They did the transvenudial (sp?) surgery on a Wed morning and I was able to see things clearly when I woke that afternoon. I was up and moving about on Friday. On Monday they sent me home. This surgery is less invasive and the recovery time isn't long. They of course told me to watch out for a few things, like no lifting, etc, the usual after surgery stuff but by 3 weeks after the surgery I was allowed to go back to horseback riding.

lol, My point is that the surgery isn't as scary as it sounds and your life will improve afterwards due to the lack of headache and mobility and sight that you gain back afterwards.
They didn't ever give me any of the psychtropic drugs and I puilled thru just great. Hoping this long winded info will help you. Prayers being said for you.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-PW]

These medications act on the neuro-messenger signals in the brain to do with neurons and their supporting cells. The cells in a pituitary tumor are not neurons, and are a completely different type of cell, therefore these drugs do not affect the tumor.

Good luck