[Lady_Blue]

I have found something that I wanted to share. I've been on this forum for more than a few 24's.....I don't usually post here, but have in the past. While I take Effexor, and have for years, I usually toss the "pt. drug info sheets" that come w/ it, as I always read these when I'm taking any new medicine. Just yesterday, I picked up my new script, and don't know why, but actually read the drug info sheet with it. I was shocked to see a warning about a possibility of something I was not familar with: serotonin syndrome. This CAN be LETHAL if left UNTREATED.

The paper informed me that certain drugs taken with ANY SSRI's/SNRI's CAN trigger this syndrome. They include; but are not limited to: Cymbalta, Prozac, Lithium, Tramadol (Ultram), ANY SSRI's, SNRI's, and the list goes on....also; too much of ANY ONE OF THESE can result in serotonin syndrome.

Below is a link from Mayo clinic explaining symptoms, treatment, diagnosis, etc. Please research these things yourself. There's a wealth of info online about this syndrome. I am not a Dr. I AM; however; very proactive in my own healthcare, mental as well as physical healthcare. We must educate ourselves, and make the best decision about our treatment individually & with our healthcare provider. Apparently, this is now something the drug companies are now legally required to put on these labels.

Below, click on & read more in the underlined words. You can find more, and do your own research. If this has been discussed here, please accept mt apologies....

Serotonin syndrome: Signs and symptoms - MayoClinic.com

It just so happens my timing was perfect! I see my Dr. tomorrow, and plan to discuss this w/ him. I am also an opiate addict...accidentally, which doesn't matter either way...I AM an addict. I suffer from chronic pain. I was taking narcotic pain pills (Norco) & got addicted....didn't KNOW until I tried to stop taking them. I also must tell you that I was ABUSING them as well...(taking more than prescribed dosage).....Consequently, I was put on Ultram (generic name tramadol) which had NO warning about this at all on that label.....Fortunately, I don't take that anymore...Supposedly Ultram is non narcotic AND not addictive. That's not correct, as I know I've seen several poosts where people DID become addicted to the Ultram as well....

I just wanted to share. Everyone, take GOOD care!

Always, Lady_Blue