I thought my doc would be supportive...

[Im Almost There]

I have been reading on My Way Out since the beginning of the year. I have read RJ's book, take supplements, exercise, etc. I decided that I was ready to try topa, but I didn't want to order it online. I went to see my doctor, and she was completely unsupportive wrt the topa. I know it is an off label use. I am dissapointed as going to the doctor to tell her something like that was very difficult for me. Has this happened to anyone else here?

Thanks...

[juniperbelle]

Not yet, but I plan to ask my doc in May. I'm fearing the same difficulty and may consider buying it online just to try it. I'll let you know what the doc says. Belle

[Cinders]

My doc was also unsupportive at first, however she had me send the website address, and any other info about it and she finally agreed.

Unfortunately, I was allergic to topa!!

However, I know others have gone to a brand new doctor and asked for topa as maintenance for their migraines. Say they have been taking it for years.

Most docs know topa and what it is for.

There are always ways!!

Good luck to both of you.

Love,
Cindi
XXIV

[Im Almost There]

Thanks for the replies. Sometimes it is good just to know someone else is out there. I've been thinking about my appointment all day and I feel like my doctor just didn't want to get into anything personal with me. I sat there crying...It is sooooo hard to admit that I need help, and she just kept typing away on her laptop. ARG! Oh well, I like the suggestion about asking for topa as a migraine medication. I had thought about doing that first, but the truth is always the best policy...right?

[Thankful]

Im Almost There ~ That's awful what happened. Did she tell you why she doesn't like Topa? And did she offer you an alternative or just ignore the situation? Please don't let one bad apple spoil the bunch. If you feel you need a Drs care for this by all means seek the help. Maybe you just need to switch Drs.

Let us know how you make out. We are here for you.

Love, Me

[lukalee]

I agree. If your doctor is not willing to work with you, it might be time to look for a new one.

[Im Almost There]

Thanks Thankful and Lukalee

I'm trying to stay optimistic. I am at the point where I will continue until I figure it out. I'll let you know what happens.

[moonlight]

Well,
My doctor turned me down also, as he said fighting a drug ( alcohol) with a drug is not the best way. I am also very afraid of the side affects, so thought I would try the supplemets and hypnosis cd's. I already exercize at least 4 days a week, but used to reward it with champange afterwards. Now, it will be the supplements. Hope this can work without topomax for a while????

[KateH1]

Just to give a different prospective on doc's prescribing drugs for "off label use". This is very tricky for them and, can, in fact, put their careers and medical licence in jeopardy. This is because of the possiblility of adverse reactions. All of the class action suits brought about by patients against drug companies, also impact the doctors. If a doc prescribes a drug, to a patient for "off label" usage. They leave themselves wide open to be involved in a law suit. Sad, but true. I say, blame the greedy lawyers and not the doctors!

[juniperbelle]

I had a pdoc who never looked at me, just typed on his laptop, and then proscribed Depakote, saying I was bipolar. Well, I've seldom had a manic moment in my life; my highs are merely quiet joys. I left him for my current doc, who is compassionate and caring. I won't even leave her if she denies to prescribe topa, but I may investigate it on my own anyway. You aren't alone by any means! There are lots of us just like you. Love.