Prozac?

[pixiegurl]

So, I FINALLY told a doctor today that I have CSP!! I was worried that she wouldn't think it was a 'REAL' problem, (which it obvious is for me/us otherwize I wouldn't of forced myself into the extremely uncomfortable situation of having to bring the subject up in the first place) I was very relieved to hear she does know of CSP and refers to it as an OCD. Anyway, getting to my question for anyone who has any input...

She perscribed me prozac...(already, in just my consultation appointment) I have only read as much as I can find here and on other picking websites, which is how I came to realize this problem even had a real name. I have read everyone's pro's and con's with all the different med's (over 20 different kinds!!!) I didn't come accross much in the way of prozac. I am scared that I got the doctor that just perscibes prozac to everyone, for everything. I really need to do some research on the drug because I have a bad impression from all the talk a few years back, how it is so over perscribed. I was/am under the impression that prozac is for depression, and at no point in my doctors appointment did I say I was depressed... I mean yah, sure it gets me down when I've caused so much self inflicted damage to my face and body!! But isn't that the wrong order to heal in? I expressed an interest in trying to solve my CSP problem with cognitive therepy, but apparently it takes at least a year to see a specialist. To me that would be the better plan in hopes of actually conquering this behavioural habit, instead of having to go through pill after pill, for the rest of my life??? Not too mention bringing on all these different possible side effects. I guess you could say I'm leary of taking drugs to solve a problem that I think needs to be worked through in a different manor, I just don't know what that other way is? So many questions... I guess since this was the first time I have seen this doctor I don't really trust her, even though she is a doctor and she should know best right? I feel like I trust all of your opinions more so because we all share this horrible problem, so any advice you can give me on your experience with prozac(positive or negative) or any other drug/therepy which has been helpful to you would be extremely appreciated. I've seen that what works for some may not work for others but I'm wondering... Do I go fill this prozac perscription tomorrow or find a another doctor??

[Iceman]

Find another doctor. Prozac is way old school and there are so many newer, more sophisticated drugs for CSP. Celexa & Lexapro are 2 of the top SSRI's and there are other effective ones as well. Since you're already leery of taking drugs in the 1st place, something like Lexapro would be good b/c it has mild to no side effects and only a small dose of 10-20mg daily is required. Also the cognitive behavioral therapy is a great idea. I've read that can be one of the most successful avenues for conquering CSP. Haven't tried it myself but from what i read it's a very good option. Who says it takes a year to see a therapist? If you want to see one, then find someone who specializes in OCD disorders or Trichotillomania (compulsive hair pulling) as they would be the most dialed in to what you need. There is so much info. on the web also. Here is a great link to get you started. www.self-injury-abuse-trauma-directory.info/Completed%20Files/Skin-picking-Links_&_Books.htm
Take care

[Pixiegurl]

Thank you Iceman for your response, I kinda thought prozac sounded a little old school as well. Besides all the side effects I've come accross have got me scared to death about taking prozac! (they say the withdrawl when you suddenly go off, can even bring on suicide!) No thanks! My goal is to get through this picky problem!

So as you advised, I think I'll look more into the Lexapro. So far, all the posts I've come accross which have mentioned lexapro have been positive ones. Have you yourself tried it??

This may sound like a silly question but, what does the acronym SSRI stand for?? I keep seeing it but don't know what it stands for, can someone quickly fill me in?

Thanks again for your input! That was the first time I've ever posted on any support board (I've only ever looked in from the outside) Now I can really see/feel first hand how the inner support really does help!! I guess it's all a step forward in the healing proccess!

Good luck to your own healing proccess!! We will get through it, and beyond!

[Iceman]

Yes i just switched from Celexa to Lexapro last month. They are both from the same Pharm. company with Lexapro being the newer, improved form of Celexa. I liked Celexa but have read reports that Lexapro has been proven to help even more with skin picking so i decided to make the switch.

SSRI's means Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors which means these drugs stop the brain from reabsorbing Serotonin too quickly and allow the Serotonin to be more plentiful for brain functions. It's a complicated, medical function but basically SSRI's are trying to regulate the Serotonin in the brain to a more normal, balanced state. Let me know if you have any other q's and check out that link for lots of info.
Take it easy