Depression Medications and ITP

I had my spleen removed 3 years ago due to ITP. I have done very well and my platelets continue to be great. I was diagnosed with h pylori about a month and a half ago. I completed the medication therapy for it and I have a follow up with my physician in a couple of weeks. I have had some bouts with depression and mental fogginess for several months now. I realize this could be related to the h pylori. However, I am at a point that I feel some type of depression medication is definitely needed. I am curious if anyone else has had a similiar situation as mine and is currently on any depression meds. I don't want to take a chance on decreasing my platelets but I definitely need something. I did try Wellbutrin a many years ago when I went through a divorce and I will say it did not help. It actually caused me to feel more aggitated. Any feedback is appreciated!

Do you still have a hematologist? If so can whatever doctor you are seeing about the depression get in contact with your hematologist and they discuss what med would be best?

Jill:

Many of us have taken depression meds with no platelet problems. Keep in mind that any drug, even an antibiotic or OTC, can cause a drop in platelets. This experience is different for everyone, ie, what might cause a drop for you may not for me and vice versa.

As has already been mentioned, "blood disorders" (a very wooly phrase, and I suspect used as a cover-all) are a possible side effect of pretty much any drug. Of the major anti-depressants, the SSRIs (which include arugs such as prozac/fluoxetine) lists ecchymoses/bruising as a rare side effect and the tricyclics similarly list blood disorders (not specifically low platelets) as a rare side effect. As Sandi has said, many people take antidepressants with no ill effects (or at least with no effect on their platelets) whatsoever.

I would erely cautionL please dmo not use St John's Wort (which some people use for mild depression) alongside other antidepressants (in fact, if you ever plan to use St John's Wort AT ALL, please speak to your doctor, as it can alter the plasma concentrations of many other medications).

Hi,

I have depression and ITP and definitely need to do something about the depression now..
Have tried anti-depressants in the past but would rather not go on them again if possible! I have recently been recommended to take 'EMPower' for depression by a friend. I know several people who 'swear' by it! (Although they are not ITP sufferers). Have a look at the website www.truehope.com , which is the home page for the manufacturers of this supplement - it sounds fantastic.

Am going to check this EMPower out with my haematologist to see if it's ok to take. If it is I'm going to give it a good try!

Wish you all the best! Will let you know if I have any success with EMPower... maybe it could help you too

Gilly

ps. I have often thought that ITP & fatigue & depression are linked - have had all 3 for all my life and I'm 31! It was great to read that the PDSA list depression in their ITP booklet, I feel they explain it very well. I appreciate that very much!

ps. sorry, I forgot that you actually have great counts and that your issue was perhaps more with the H.pylori? But anyhow, maybe the EMPower could help you with your depression - its worth a look.

I just feel that I have taken SO many awful (re.side effects) medications for ITP and depression that I would like to give this one a go - especially as it is using vitamins etc.

All the best!
You're not alone!