@Harley
I am sorry about
your ordeal. When I was diagnosed with colitis I tried Lialda first because I was scarred of the other options. My gastro wanted me straight on biologics, but I was too scared. Because I am allergic to aspirin, there was concern about
a reaction to mesalamine since they are similar. I went to the allergist who tested me by giving 1/4 of a pill and waiting half an hour, then 1/2 a pill and another 1/2 hour. Then finally I took a whole pill and waited another 1/2 hour. Based on that approach I assume the allergic reaction would take place within half hour. Note they had to cut the pill and destroy the coating, which could cause faster absorption compared to the whole pill. Also they were looking for an allergic reaction only and not for any benefit Lialda may have, so those pills were wasted as far as treatment goes.
Funny you mentioned dizziness. I too felt dizzy with Lialda for the first week or so. I also remember headaches and bloating. They went away after a week or so. Then I was in remission for a year when all of a sudden my creatinine went up. Unfortunately I developed a rare kidney toxicity and had to stop Lialda.
Anxiety can really take control of you. As others suggested I recommend you do all you can to treat it ASAP. Because controlling anxiety is a long process I recommend you take a multi prong approach. If you are
open to medication, talk to your doctor but don't expect a miracle right away. If you can afford therapy, you should go for it. I am a firm believer on the self help approach. By that I mean you empower yourself to handle the attacks when they come so you don't depend on medication. Try relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation. Massage and acupuncture might help too. How do you feel about
exercising, that is very effective for depression which is not that dissimilar to anxiety.
For your immediate problem, to take or not to take the pill. My advice is if you decide to take it, do it in the presence of someone you trust. Ideally you have a family member or a close friend that you can tell all the fears you have associated with taking mesalamine. Just telling all your fears to another person who is understanding will help tremendously. Ask them to stay with you for awhile after you take the pill. Hopefully your anxiety won't be as bad. Good luck.
Post Edited (Flaming Heart) : 9/27/2015 9:58:04 AM (GMT-6)