I just wanted to agree with Vikees point, that every medication has a big list of potential side effects, including the over the counter ones, which a lot of people don't realise. Prescription drugs always list potential interactons with other medications which are often theoretical, because naturally they are erring on the side of caution. For example, it is common to see anti-depressants and anti-psychotics listed as having interactions, yet I see (as a nurse) many people take these medicines together with no major problems. Same with mood-stabilisers and anti-depressants. When you have a number of serious conditions you do feel like you're swallowing a hundred pills a day - if it's any consolation over the years I've seen a couple of people who take 15 different medications a day! (Not that this is what I would call sensible prescribing, but it does happen). As all medications have their side-effects, a Dr is expected to weigh up the potential benefits whenever they prescribe, keeping the other meds. in mind. If you do have troublesome side-effects, tell your Dr. If you need more info, ask your pharmacist. They know even more about the interactions than the Drs usually, and I find them so helpful. The most serious side-effect you may need to watch for, having bipolar disorder, would be anti-depressant induced mania. However, it is such a low dose that this probably a low risk, unless you are taking another anti-depressant already. I assume you see a psychiatrist, who will monitor that potential.I guess the bottom line is that if something has the potential to help you, are you prepared to take the chance of having some side-effects (that may be short lived) or may require stopping a drug, to get a better quality of life? A big question I know, but that's what it comes down to. Just a note for Vikee - it is unusual for Drs to prescribe two anti-depressants at once, particularly a tri-cyclic with an SSRI. Do you see a General Practitioner or a Psychiatrist for that? I guess you must be doing OK on it or you wouldn't have sent that post! (Please note I am not trying to provide specific advice, as that would be inappropriate, but talking in a general sense)
