Question:
I might be starting on an antidepressent preop...............

If I do will it hamper my "getting a surgical date"and what pill is the least likely to be associated with weight gain?    — Anne B. (posted on June 12, 2002)

June 12, 2002
Hello, I'm on Effexor XR and have been for several years. I've tried other types of antidpressants but I like this one the best because it has the fewest side affects. When I had my consultation with my surgeon (BTC, Wylie, TX) I asked if I should go off my medication for my depression. She asked if my depression was better - answer - yes it is (I had a specific time in my life when I went through a tough time). Long story short - She recommended that I was to stay on this medication until at least six months after my surgery because I still had some tough times ahead. She made it clear that the surgery is not a 'magic bullet" I still have a lot of hard work ahead of me and many people get depressed after the surgery because they don't feel good, don't like the "food" they have to eat at that point, etc. Just my two cents worth! Hope this helps.
   — Beth S.

June 12, 2002
Your doctor is much more qualified to answer these questions than any of us. Get a professional opinion on this. As for weight gain, most (all?) anti depressants have side effects that CAN include weight gain OR weight loss. Each one reacts differently with each person. Don't let all of the options scare you from getting appropriate treatment. Also, "depression" was used as part of my "medical necessity" claim for the surgery.
   — Karen F.

June 12, 2002
Hi, I am on 20 mg Celexa and I find it to be incredibly helpful. I do not feel hungry, tired or "drugged" which I did feel on the other drugs I've tried. Paxil, Nortriptolene, Serzone, Imipromine. The only negative i have found is the "Dead Zone" associated with the sexual aspect of my life, I am on wellbutrin SR 150 mg 2 x's daily to to try and combat this bummer of a side effect. it is OK but not 100%. I really like the effects and several of the people in my support group are also on it and they seem to agree with the results. This has given me backa more positive outlook on things and also my "fuse" is much "longer" than before( I can COPE). I hope this helps me tremendously. GOOD LUCK. PC
   — pcollin4

June 13, 2002
I just NOW found out that Zoloft is available in liquid form. My shrink said the liquid is 25% more readily absorbed than regular Zoloft. I had asked my pharmacy a few weeks ago if they had any suggestions -- they didn't tell me liquid Zoloft was available. Check with your doctor to see if any/all of your medications may be available as a liquid (read: more AVAILABLE to your body). I can tolerate pills fine, but the absorption factor was my issue. Just a thought...
   — Karen F.