Tips for dosage of Prozac-Wellbutrin

It was suggested to take the genetic testing . I did. It suggested Wellbutrin I started very low dose . Side effects were horrible. I have tried atleast 10 different rx . All horrible side effects. I feel I need something but the long term effects on liver etc are so scarry.
From seizures , heart attacks, liver damage etc. I feel it’s the American way .. problems pop a pill.

Hello @planetjane and welcome to the Depression & Anxiety support group on Mayo Connect. Medications for mental health issues can be very helpful for many people and you and your medical team has undoubtedly found a good combination for you. It's great that you have had no side effects.

Unfortunately, there is not a one-size fits all when it comes to medications, so it is best to rely on your doctors to see what might work best for your individual situation. Genetic testing, though, can often provide some answers.

Have you had genetic testing done to determine what medications might work best for you?

@planetjane I'm just checking on the dosage you mentioned for Prozac. Did you mean 40-80 mg of Prozac? I looked this up at Mayo Clinic and the dosage ranges for Prozac is generally 20-80 mg. Can you check your prescription and report back here? I know many people who have worked with their doctors to find an antidepressant and dosage that will work for them with periodic changes over time.

Hi @planetjane

By the way, I love your ID. Teresa brought up a good point about finding the right meds and the right dosage(s). I have been on Wellbutrin 300 mg for some time, and it helps. At one point, I was put on a low dose of Zoloft and experienced mania. Luckily, I figured it out and took myself off it before something really bad happen.

What I learned from this experience was that you should rationally decide what medication plan works best for you. My psychiatrist repeatedly suggested adding the Zoloft because my PHQ-9 scores were a little high; however, I was feeling pretty good though. I was reluctant but eventually agreed to do it. I now regret not listening to myself and just say no. Unfortunately, this episode also has made me a little distrustful of medication changes.

I do not want to talk you out of something that may actually help, but I think your input in this is very important. I had never heard of genetic testing. That may be something you should consider just have some knowledge about which medications might work best.

thank you!