Question:
Has anyone gone on anti-depressants after surgery and had problems with nausea?

If so, what did you do about it. I was told that some people experience this at first and it shouldn't last past a week but I am having a difficult time with the nausea, even vomitting. Please help!    — Jane H. (posted on July 16, 1999)

July 18, 1999
I switched from wellbutrin to zoloff after my surgery and I have been experiencing nausea and diarrhea. Were you told that the anti-depressant is what is causing this?
   — Christine N.

August 30, 1999
I haven't had the surgery...still hoping to though. But I have recently went of anti-depressants..zoloft to be exact. I have been off of it for almost a month, and still experiencing nausea and "flu" like symptoms. Most bothersome is the "shocky" feeling I get from even moving my eyes. I'd ask your doctor about withdrawel..and perhaps starting up either a new anti-depressant or even an herbal one such as St Johns Wort. Good luck and hope you feel better soon:)
   — Lee E.

August 30, 1999
Hi Jane, I am pre-op, but I have some experience with anti-depressant meds. I took Prozac for about two years, and did have nausea and headaches for several days at first, but they went away. After my first baby was born, I went back on Prozac for post-partum depression, and this time the nausea was so bad I was vomiting daily and could hardly eat anything. I think the difference was that with the post-partum depression, I also had a high level of anxiety. Perhaps the anxiety made my stomach more sensitive to the side-effects of the drug. My doctor didn't believe that the prozac was causing the vomiting, but when I switched to another anti-depressant drug, the problem resolved within a few days. Ask your doctor about trying another drug, or possibly taking something to reduce anxiety if you have that problem. Hope this helps,
   — Lynn K.

September 23, 1999
Dear Jane, I had a hell of a time after surgery! My Doc changed some of my meds to liquids, but that was horrid. I had a liquid form of depakote that would make me vomit, give me the shakes, and I would have to lie down. It's not very pleasant to taste any of these even when ground very fine and mixed w/orange juice. Sorry I don't have any great ideas for you, just wanted to share. Good Luck!
   — cathy H.

May 15, 2005
I didn't realize at the time that I was going through depression. I was 1.5 after my wls and I ended up needing to get a total knee replacement. Well, that really sent me over the edge. My husband was getting more and more concerned so I finally went to my PCP and he started me out on Prozac and I am currently on Effexor. There are many different types of meds, but I strongly encourage you to fine a great therapist, like mine. It is helpful to know why you got where you are and can help you get through.
   — Rhonda C.