Antidepressants/anti-anxiety meds to help me cope

I hate to admit that I am not coping at all well now with my reflux symptoms. I am still awaiting a re-referral to the Gastroenterologist and am so far at the mercy of the NHS waiting list, I am also waiting on the results of my PH/Manometry test.

The PPIs I'm taking are not helping at all with my symptoms, I am ill almost all day every day and am getting worn down and my appetite is diminishing rapidly.

A few years ago due a life event I went on an AD called Remeron (Mirtazapine), an antidepressant, for several months, they helped and when things changed I came off them. As a result I am thinking of asking my doctor to put me on Remeron again. It certainly helps with appetite and sleep. My fear is that if I am eventually referred for surgery it will interfere adversely with the anaesthetic and other pain meds. I also fear that it may make my reflux worse.

I don't know what to do and would be so grateful to hear from anyone who is taking antidepressants or has had to take them or something else to cope with their Gerd or Lpr. Or someone who has taken them pre and post surgery.

If you could share your experience or thoughts on this it would really help me. Thank you.

Post Edited (Noelle3) : 11/10/2013 12:13:57 PM (GMT-7)

Remeron made me rather lethargic and hungry. Didn't notice it making my gerd worse on a low dose. I wouldn't be surprised if it made your gerd worse on a higher dose though. Anxiety meds would probably help all of us.

Hi lobstahguy, yes, I did get a dry mouth. I only took it at a low dose and found it a very mild antidepressant with none of the nasty side effects of some of the others. No, I won't be taking benzodiazepenes.

Hi TheSIXness, thank you for that feedback. I would only take it at a low dose.

I have found this illness to be a real rollercoaster, really anxiety provoking. I've never felt so up and down in my life before.

Thank you both for responding, I really appreciate it.

I was on and continue to be on an antidepressant when I had major surgery back in 2012.  No problem with the anesthesia and antidepressant together. This is a good question for your Dr.

Thank you all for sharing so openly and honestly.

StephanieJean, I agree that benzodiazepine type medications can help immensely in some instances. Doctors here in the UK are loathe to prescribe them as some patients have been poorly monitored and so became addicted. This is a shame as I believe they are now underused.

Bill and Kitt, thank you for telling me that you had no problems with AD use pre and post surgery.