Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Support Group

On Friday, I had an appointment with my endocrinologist.

About a month ago, he prescribed Ortho Tri Clycin for my PCOS. After consulting with my psychiatrist, I learned that birth control lowers the effectiveness of anticonvulsants such as Lamictal (which I am currently taking and have been taking for 3 years). So I never filled the prescription. I discussed this with my endocrinologist today and he alternatively prescribed Decadron (dexamethasone).

After looking up the possible side effects of Decadron, I think it's a REALLY REALLY REALLY bad idea!

Decadron can cause gastric or duodenal ulcers which would be horrible for my gastritis. It can cause loss of calcium, water retention, edema, heart failure, muscle weakness, dizziness, and potassium loss which definitely isn't good because I already have osteopenia, potassium deficiencies, orthostatic hypotension, irregular EKG's, and problems with edema. Increased urination is another possible side effect which is just annoying. Decadron can also cause allergic skin rashes such as acne, dermatitis, and dry scaly skin which I already have. It also is known to cause increased appetite yielding to significant weight gain which in essence, would potentially trigger an increase in eating disordered behaviors. Psychologically, Decadron can cause personality changes, irritability, and euphoria which means it could trigger a manic episode since I'm bipolar.

So yeah. I'm not going to fill the prescription until I get a second opinion. I don't think my endocrinologist is fully aware of all of my physical problems. I need to be more assertive with him. I did question him about weight gain and he said that since I would be taking a small dose, I shouldn't be that effected. I know this isn't necessarily true because I've been on low dosages of medicine in the past and have suffered serious side effects. My next scheduled appointment isn't until October. A LOT can happen in 3 months. I could gain a lot of weight. Most likely, I will schedule another appointment with him and see if he can figure out some medication that wouldn't interfere with my preexisting medical conditions.

Has anyone taken dexamethasone?
If so, did you experience any of the side effects I mentioned?

What are other options to treat PCOS are there besides birth control and dexamethasone???
Posted on 07/19/09, 11:07 pm