Hi Tami, nope I started on Dex and was on that for about 11-12 years. From .75mg down to .25mg. Then when I tried Cortef for a study I realized I had been suffering from depression all those years, irritability and irrational fears, and panic attacks that weren't severe like thinking I was having a heart attack or anything...but an overwhelming sense of fear that brought on dreadful thought patterns that caused me insomnia.
Anyway since being on Cortef I have been so much more mellow. But I have gained weight. Which on the Dex didn't seem to be much of a problem. The only time I really gained weight was when I was on Dex and Amytriptyline for migraines....I really blossomed. Althought right now my face is not swollen like it was at that time I am almost as big, weight-wise, with more muscle this time because I do work out.
I do feel much better though mentally and that is very important to me. But I don't think I have as much energy and I know I am retaining fluid. I dropped my dose down just a little for a few days and the last 2 mornings my hands were not asleep. They tingle a little but nothing like it was.
On the generic hydro the fluid disapeared but it was not working for me.
I wish I didn't have to take anything at all. But Pred might be in the future for me. Since Cortef does have some salt retaining properties (mineralcorticoid) it also causes me to gain weight I guess. So it's like choosing to be fat and happy, not skinny and miserable. Some people take Cortef and don't have a problem at all with the weight. I don't know of many nonclassics adults that are taking Cortef.
I've almost wanted to go back on Dex, but I don't want to start waking up hating the world again.....
