Time for a change?
Question
I've been taking Prozac for about three months to treat my OCD and feelings of anxiety. The thing is, although it helps with the OCD I still feel anxious at times.
My doctor wants me to start taking Citalopram instead but I don't know the differences between the two medications and whether this will mean that I'll eventually have to go back onto Prozac and start all over again. Can you help shed some light?
Answer
It's great to hear Prozac has helped to relieve some of your Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)symptoms but it must be frustrating to still feel anxious at times. It's logical your doctor (GP) has suggested changing medications, but it is equally understandable you have the concerns you describe.
As you may know, OCD has two elements: obsessions and compulsions. It is based around obsessive thought patterns and rituals, in conjunction with compulsions to carry out physical rituals. It can be exhausting trying to cope with them on a regular basis, especially if they have a significant impact on your everyday life. It is understandable that you should be left feeling anxious.
Prozac and Citalopram are both known as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants. They are commonly prescribed to treat OCD, in addition to depression and anxiety conditions which generally coincide with OCD. It can take up to 12 weeks on a high dosage of these medications for significant benefits to be noticed. Unfortunately, as with all medications, there can be side effects, and anxiety can be one of them.
It sounds like you were experiencing anxiety before you began the Prozac treatment. It is possible the Prozac could have exacerbated this underlying issue, which is why it is worth trying an alternative SSRI such as Citalopram. Please be assured, it is common for prescriptions to be changed like this, to ensure your medication meets your individual needs.
For more information you can call United Kingdom Psychiatric Pharmacy Group (UKPPG) Psychiatric Medication helpline on 020 7919 2999. Drug information pharmacists run the helpline and they will be able to explain in detail the differences between Prozac and Citalopram and the way in which they work.
You may like to bear in mind that medication can be combined with psychological or behavioural therapies such as psychotherapy or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). These therapies can provide substantial benefits to the way in which OCD and anxiety can be managed. Your GP will be able to refer you accordingly, but if you would like to seek a therapist independently the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists (BABCP) have a very comprehensive website, including a search engine to locate local therapists.
Starting 'over again' from scratch is something you may like to discuss further with your GP. Together, you can explore all the options available to you. Discussing all of your symptoms and experiences with your GP may be useful, as you could, together, monitor your OCD. There are more 'natural' methods of treatment available, from supplements to ease your feelings of anxiety, such as flower remedies, to alternative therapies such as Reiki and Homeopathy. Looking after yourself by eating well and exercising can also help ease anxiety.
Sometimes it helps to hear about other people's experiences and you may like to visit the OCD Action Forum. The website also contains details of support groups, another option you might like to consider. No More Panic also have a message board and a helpline, available on 0808 808 0545.
Feeling anxious can be very tiring and isolating. Some people find it helpful to talk about their situation and feelings to family or friends. But if you don't feel comfortable with this idea, sometimes it can be easier to talk to someone that you do not know. If you would like to talk through your situation you can call SANELINE in complete confidence on 0845 767 8000. They provide information and emotional support to anyone affected by a mental health issue.
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Question answered by SANE
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