Expert: S. John Johnson, PharmD, CGP - 1/20/2004

Question
I'm afraid that I have made a terrible mistake. I am a 51 year old woman whose son is 26.  On Dec. 31st, I gave my son my OWN prescriptions for Prozac 20 mg. daily and Adderall 10 mg twice a day because he was seriously depressed and would not see a doctor.  I have been under psychiatric care for depression for over 10 years and had extra medication for myself.  I gave him the list of warnings, etc. for each medication.  I had not heard from him since Sunday, Jan. 11th until this morning when he called me from jail.  He has never even had a traffic ticket or been arrested in his life and is a college graduate.  He apparently got drunk and tried to rob someone.  This behavior is so out of character for him that I just had to ask an expert if the drugs I gave him could have contributed?  Any input, advice or direction you could give me would be most appreciated.  Thank you for taking the time to read this.  Carolanne

Answer
Tough question....  sorry to say, but yes i would say that yes, it probably COULD have contributed.   The adderall is basically speed and can make people aggresive.  The prozac can enhance the alcohol.  I know my answer will probably make you feel even worse but I felt like you should know the truth.  But don't be too hard on yourself.  You were trying to help and you had good intentions.