 |
 |
Lanier - << After having a tremor for 4 1/2 years I decided to try taking a med prescribed by my doctor. He thought that Artane was the most approiate drug for my symptoms, that being a left side tremor. You don't mention if you're taking any Sinemet. If not, is there a reason you haven't tried it yet? Or one of the agonists, such as Mirapex or Requip? >So I started taking Artane as prescribed, 2mg a day for a week, then 3mg , then 5mg then 6, then 8mg per day. each dose continued for a week. Now I am sleeping well and don't have a headache anymore and feel pretty good. But at this level (8mg's per day), I am beginning to feel light-headed, or dizzy, and I feel that I am about to lose my balance from time to time. And this is scaring me. I don't want to start falling down. >And as far as reducing the tremor, I don't think it is any less than before. The drug at this level is very little or no help. He has me going on up to 12mg's per day. But because of the dizziness etc, I am thinking about leveling off or even reducing the dose back to say maybe 6mgs per day to see what happens. Do I really need to go all the way up to 12mg a day to see if I start getting some relief from the tremor. Should I nto be getting some relief at 8mg's? I am now at the end of six weeks talking the Artane. Are you seeing a movement disorder specialist? If not, I'd strongly recommend it. Meanwhile, I'd suggest telling your current doc about your symptoms and letting him know you'd like to reduce the amount of Artane. Over time, Artane can cause memory problems and other cognitive deficits. Also, ask if it's time to start Sinemet or an agonist. You can start with a low dose and gradually build up, if necessary, until you get some relief. Margie Swindler cg for Dick, 55/18