AboutMichael Dean Expertise Can answer
General information on tobacco addiction, and resources for quitting.
Information on current cancer research and the health effects of tobacco.
The risk of smoking for lung cancer and other cancers, as well as SIDS, heart disease, and vision loss.
The best place to start is 1-800-QUIT-NOW
Cannot answer
Specific medical questions
Experience Cancer Researcher for over 20 years
Author of the book "Empty Cribs-The impact of smoking on child health" www.artsciencepub.com.
Author of over 200 scientific articles on cancer, genetics and human disease.
Multiple interviews in print, TV and radio media.
Organizations American Association for Cancer Research
American Association of Human Genetics
Publications Scientific journals (Science, Nature, NE Journal Medicine, etc.)
Scientific American, Discovery Medicine, Nature Reviews in Cancer
Education/Credentials PhD. in Biochemistry from Boston University School of Medicine
Awards and Honors Young Investigator award-American Association of Cancer Research
Expert: Michael Dean Date: 10/12/2007 Subject: Smoking Cessation/Depression
Question Took Chantix for 30 days, quit smoking on the 8th day with very little difficulty. 2 days after the last dose, I started to feel vaguely depressed. This worsened over the next 30 days to where I could hardly concentrate, was crying often and lost interest in all my previous activities. After a month, I contacted the dr. who prescribed Lexapro 10mg. 5 days into the Lexapro, I had a major anxiety attack when I was confined to the bed all day. I thought it was a Lwxapro reaction, but after reading all the pharmacological info, I realized it most likely wasn't. Dr. gave me Clonazepam 5mg. I am taking 1 at night(because I didn't sleep at all for 40 hours during and after the attack) and have taken 1/2 tab midday for 2 days.A brief history--I am 60 years old, perfect health, great life, no money or any other worries. 5'7", 120 lbs,have a wonderful husband. I am a recovering alcoholic, for 19 years. Had a major depression in 1965, my freshman year of college, with no drugs whatsoever prescribed, just pshchotherapy. I have no appetite, my BP has gone from
118/68 average to 180/89 average. I have taken 7 doses of Lexapro and feel I must treat the depression, while being very careful with the addictive effects of .the Clonazepam.
My physician is young, a small beach town. Are we on the right track? It is so disheartening to face retirement with this "is life worth living" attitude--I had smoked 2 packs a day for 40 years. I'd appreciate any input you can give--and thanks so much for your generous donation of time, Cheryl
Answer Dear Cheryl,
I am sorry to hear about your depression. I am not a psychiatrist or psychologist, so I can be of only limited help.
Depression does occur in some smokers after quitting. It usually goes away in a few weeks to months.
You should call 1-800-QUIT-Now and find out about resources in your state. Some states provide free therapy and telephone quitlines, and these are useful.
I would suggest trying your current medications for a week or so. Many drugs take a week or two for your body to build up levels and to really see if they work.
If that fails, talk to your doctor about prescribing Zyban. Zyban (bupropion) was originally developed as an anti-anxiety drug For reasons that are not real clear, it helps in reducing anxiety and withdrawal symptoms.
I'd suggest you read "The EasyWay to Quit Smoking" by Allen Carr. He explains how smoking has no positive benefit in your life and the many advantages of quitting. The book has been a best seller in Europe for many years, and you might find it useful.
Let me know how this goes,
Good luck,
Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com
