QUOTE: "And I dont have a gp who will even listen to me, let alone know the answers to any questions!"

A lot of excellent information can be obtained by speaking with a pharmacist. At least where I live (BC Canada), you can call ahead to a pharmacy, make an appointment to meet with a pharmacist and then sit down with them in private to discuss medications, side effects, interactions etc.

I have done this on a few occasions to address concerns regarding taking new medications that might have side effects on a seemingly unrelated medical condition. In one instance, the newly prescribed medication was in fact contra-indicated due to the potential of liver failure; but a substitute without that side effect was recommended and worked out just fine.

It might be worth a try to see a pharmacist to address you concerns. They might even be able to suggest something that works well without the side effects that concern you.

With love, Erika