Prescriptions and how they affect us.

[littlerayofsunshine]

This is something rarely discussed on this forum, but I am considering making a group (moderated, maybe invite only to keep out puppets) Once I figure out all the bells N whistles on this site. Medications can affect how we feel, what we think, our sexuality, or sexual ability. Most of the time we keeps these secret for our personal reasons, But I think there should be a safe place to discuss them. Some may need support or suggestion on how deal with a side effect, or would like more information which I would easily research from reputable sites or place links to these sites to do your own research. I will not be playing doctor, and no should either in the group. I have my own issues with meds ATM.

So mostly I was just curious if anyone feels they would desire such a group so I'm making this anonymous poll. I do hope to see participation in and the results will persuade me to either work on the resources for the group, or to just toss the idea out the window. No harm no foul.

[DuckiesDarling]

I'd actually like to see one given the amount of medication I'm currently on.. some to deal with side effects of the others lol

[csrakate]

Count me in!

[littlerayofsunshine]

Yeah I am currently on four scripts ATM. but just in the last 6 months if you counted them all together probably have been on 10 (rough number) and it has been a fuckin bumpy ride let me tell ya. Minus the fucking and the bumping (fucks with my sex drive)

[silberwolf1960]

Definitly add me to the invite list please. Dealing with the meds I take for PTSD and pain,it can be a real hassle at times.

[littlerayofsunshine]

Oh and as an addition. The last choice was an hilarious yes. Cause you either are on meds or need them if you get distracted by shiny things so easily :-P

[tenni]

You may or may not want to expand your group to included items from Health food stores even vitamins. There can be dangerous mixtures when certain health store meds are mixed. I use to date a doctor and one of her patients died at the age of 22 by accidentally taking a couple of over the counter health food products. (don't recall which ones but people tend to not consider them when discussing meds with doctors).

[DuckiesDarling]

You may or may not want to expand your group to included items from Health food stores even vitamins. There can be dangerous mixtures when certain health store meds are mixed. I use to date a doctor and one of her patients died at the age of 22 by accidentally taking a couple of over the counter health food products. (don't recall which ones but people tend to not consider them when discussing meds with doctors).

Especially St. John's Wort, that is usually one the doctors make sure no one is taking when they prescribe certain meds.

[littlerayofsunshine]

You may or may not want to expand your group to included items from Health food stores even vitamins. There can be dangerous mixtures when certain health store meds are mixed. I use to date a doctor and one of her patients died at the age of 22 by accidentally taking a couple of over the counter health food products. (don't recall which ones but people tend to not consider them when discussing meds with doctors).

One of the sites that I use, Will give medication interactions between meds, over the counter and scripted, and also foods that interact. That way attention could be brought to the doctor or the pharmacists.

My favorite thing to drink when I am unwell (Grapefruit juice) is a huge no no on just about every meds interaction database. So it should not be a problem to discuss or research interactions.


MAOI's are helpful, but have a lot of threats that go along with them, so many foods have to be avoided to avoid Serotonin syndrome, which could lead to possible death.

[csrakate]

Do use caution, Little Ray, when this group does come to fruition. Make sure that the participants are well aware this is not a group that is, in any way, a substitute for consulting a physician when they have a concern. It's mostly for support and for information to make more informed decisions for our health and well-being. I hate to have to bring that part to the forefront, but in today's litigious society, you have to CYA! And it's just good advice to make sure they consult a doctor if they are indeed concerned about something.

[littlerayofsunshine]

Of course Kate and Ty for reaffirming my intentions. It will be for support w/ resources to correct information, patient information on medications, with links to the FDA and also personal reviews for one to read through. It will not be used as a group to diagnose or treat in any fashion. Rest assured. No one should change/adjust or make a medical decision with our first and foremost discussing it with their primary, psych or specialist.

I am sure most commonly it will be a safe place to bitch *Damn I hate these hot flashes* *Shit I'm constipated* ect.ect. Which sometimes we all need, cause not everyone will understand.

[CelticBerserker]

This is something rarely discussed on this forum, but I am considering making a group (moderated, maybe invite only to keep out puppets) Once I figure out all the bells N whistles on this site. Medications can affect how we feel, what we think, our sexuality, or sexual ability. Most of the time we keeps these secret for our personal reasons, But I think there should be a safe place to discuss them. Some may need support or suggestion on how deal with a side effect, or would like more information which I would easily research from reputable sites or place links to these sites to do your own research. I will not be playing doctor, and no should either in the group. I have my own issues with meds ATM.

So mostly I was just curious if anyone feels they would desire such a group so I'm making this anonymous poll. I do hope to see participation in and the results will persuade me to either work on the resources for the group, or to just toss the idea out the window. No harm no foul.

I think this is an excellent idea. Stigma be damned. One of the more important things to remember is that every individual reacts differently. Just because it's not on the list of possible side effects doesn't mean it won't happen. As a person who has been on many a horsey on the med-go-round, I'm glad to see someone talking about it frankly.

[littlerayofsunshine]

I have the group up, and sent out some invites already to those that have requested either here or in an IM to me.

[void()]

Do use caution, Little Ray, when this group does come to fruition. Make sure that the participants are well aware this is not a group that is, in any way, a substitute for consulting a physician when they have a concern. It's mostly for support and for information to make more informed decisions for our health and well-being. I hate to have to bring that part to the forefront, but in today's litigious society, you have to CYA! And it's just good advice to make sure they consult a doctor if they are indeed concerned about something.

<sarcasm>I believe everything I read on the internet and web. If some guru tells me I must eat twenty biscuits a day laced with stromium, I rush out and stock up!</sarcasm>

Thank you for making this a note. Doing so reflects empathy, compassion on you as a person. Everyone must exercise prudence regarding health concerns. It would be good if discussions were phrased: This worked for me, ... consult your doctor. I think most capable of this.

[Lisa (va)]

Since no one took a negative stance, I would be very leary of such a group. Warn as you will, some will come there versus seeing their doctor. The validity of the research is always questionable as things are consistenly changing in the medical world. The best advice, in my perosnal opinion, is to talk about health issues with your health provider. Folks react differently to the same medications, at least your doctor has a record of your health issues and concerns.

Lisa

hugs n kisses

[DuckiesDarling]

Hugs, Lisa. Yes, some will but no one will be told about anything without the caveat to see your doctor. Mostly we are just commiserating about side effects at this point in time.