This is my first posting. I read the book and postponed starting until after spring break with my family. I met today with my doctor who at first seemed ok with the program. He had not heard of Topiramate being prescribed for treatment of acoholism, but mentioned he was familiar with recent prescriptions for weight loss.
He was concerned with side effects, particularly reduction of sodium levels. I pointed out that the program had nutritional supplements to help offset side effects. I showed him the pages of the book that addressed the dosage regimine of supplements and Topiramate. He became alarmed at the dosage levels of Topiramate peaking at 300 mg. He checked his reference and said maximum dosage suggested was 150 mg. in extreme cases. I pointed out the study in The Lancet and provided a copy to him. He stated that what I provided him was an abstract and that he needed to source the complete article in the hospital library.
He was unwilling to prescribe at the levels indicated and stated that he would be willing to refer me to a psychologist who may be more familiar and more willing to write the prescription. I mentioned that I had some concern of a medical record of referal and treatment for alcoholism as I had seen the question asked on life insurance applications. He understood my concern and stated that job applications may also ask that. I asked if he were to prescribe topo for this purpose would that also leave record of treatment for alcoholism, and he said it would as he was required to state the reason for prescribing the medication. This is a concern of mine as record of treatment may cause inability to get insurance or employment. I know medical records are confidential but waivers are common on applications allowing access to those files.
He suggested AA as it is anonymous and has a proven track record. He also stated that my desire to moderate drinking was likely unrealistic and that complete abstinence was the only reliable solution. He did agree to look further into this and consult his peers regarding this use of the medication and the dosage levels. I dont know how long this may take.
I had planned to let my wife know of my decision after meeting with the doctor. She is an RN and is concerned about how much I drink, although I consume more than she is aware of. I am disappointed and wonder if I should try the program without medication as others have, or find another doctor. I would appreciate some input.
He was concerned with side effects, particularly reduction of sodium levels. I pointed out that the program had nutritional supplements to help offset side effects. I showed him the pages of the book that addressed the dosage regimine of supplements and Topiramate. He became alarmed at the dosage levels of Topiramate peaking at 300 mg. He checked his reference and said maximum dosage suggested was 150 mg. in extreme cases. I pointed out the study in The Lancet and provided a copy to him. He stated that what I provided him was an abstract and that he needed to source the complete article in the hospital library.
He was unwilling to prescribe at the levels indicated and stated that he would be willing to refer me to a psychologist who may be more familiar and more willing to write the prescription. I mentioned that I had some concern of a medical record of referal and treatment for alcoholism as I had seen the question asked on life insurance applications. He understood my concern and stated that job applications may also ask that. I asked if he were to prescribe topo for this purpose would that also leave record of treatment for alcoholism, and he said it would as he was required to state the reason for prescribing the medication. This is a concern of mine as record of treatment may cause inability to get insurance or employment. I know medical records are confidential but waivers are common on applications allowing access to those files.
He suggested AA as it is anonymous and has a proven track record. He also stated that my desire to moderate drinking was likely unrealistic and that complete abstinence was the only reliable solution. He did agree to look further into this and consult his peers regarding this use of the medication and the dosage levels. I dont know how long this may take.
I had planned to let my wife know of my decision after meeting with the doctor. She is an RN and is concerned about how much I drink, although I consume more than she is aware of. I am disappointed and wonder if I should try the program without medication as others have, or find another doctor. I would appreciate some input.
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