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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by sapphira on November 22, 2003, at 22:29:15
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? » sapphira, posted by Journeyman on November 22, 2003, at 21:28:09
hi, nice to "meet" you :-)
i noticed my mood change after the first full week. at first i felt 'dopey' and i hated that but then i started to feel just "calm" and not at all emotional or angry. i was really having problems with anger and 'flying off the handle' really easily. everyone ticked me off. that too has subsided, i find i'm able to 'blow things off more easily'. as for stability, for the most part yes, i'd say i'm pretty stable. i still get anxiety pangs when something worries me (i'm a worrier anyway) or upsets me. but i'm usually on a pretty even keel. that's one of the reasons why i'm content to stay at the 5mg. i do not feel a need right now to go to 10mg and go through all the unpleasant s/es again. the nausea is still there, though not as bad and my appetite is just so-so. i've lost weight but that doesn't upset me as i had gained during the depression.
if i can be of any help to you just let me know. everyone here is really nice and very helpful.
sapphira
Posted by sapphira on November 22, 2003, at 22:34:08
In reply to Seems to be losing it's effect, posted by lonewolf91$ on November 22, 2003, at 22:21:46
how much are you taking??
is there anything different going on in your life right now that could be bringing you down?
i know someone who is taking lex and her mom just died. she is feeling really bad (naturally so) and thought she needed to increase her lex. i told her that what she was feeling was 'normal' for the circumstances and probably not related to the lex.
sapphira
Posted by lonewolf91$ on November 22, 2003, at 22:39:20
In reply to Re: Seems to be losing it's effect, posted by sapphira on November 22, 2003, at 22:34:08
> how much are you taking??
>
> is there anything different going on in your life right now that could be bringing you down?
>
> i know someone who is taking lex and her mom just died. she is feeling really bad (naturally so) and thought she needed to increase her lex. i told her that what she was feeling was 'normal' for the circumstances and probably not related to the lex.
>
> sapphira
>
> I'm taking 10mg. The worst SE that I have is fatigue, by early evening I'm ready for a nap. Things havn't changed much in my life. The bill's get bigger while my paycheck stays the same, you know, what else is new :)
Posted by RRCarlo on November 23, 2003, at 11:09:08
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite » Scribbler, posted by Arrianna on October 17, 2003, at 23:30:52
This group never ceases to amaze me with its answers to my questions. (Even before I asked them.) This is my third day on Lexapro and I'm not hungry. That's unsual for me. I log on and, voila!, the answer to my concerns are waiting for me. Thank you all!
Posted by sfmom on November 23, 2003, at 12:29:41
In reply to how's everyone doing??, posted by sapphira on November 22, 2003, at 18:53:29
Hi Sapphira, I'm glad that the lex seems to be working for you. I'm up to 20mg and although my anxiety is better, the depression is really, really bad. So I'm just waiting out the next three weeks to see how I am after that miraculous six weeks. My doc also extended my disabity until Jan 5 (instead of Dec 1) so that is a big pressure lifted, I just don't know how I'm going to pay the mortgage! I'm still suffering from some stomach problems and have no appetite to speak of but I've started trying to exercise a couple times a week and it's really helped me feel better. I have to say though, the weight loss has been a nice side effect. I never thought I'd be a size 6 again! Of course I know it's not healthy and I'll gain weight as soon as I start eating normally again but with so much dragging me down, it's nice to have some good things too. Take care of yourself and keep us posted!
Posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 14:13:02
In reply to Seems to be losing it's effect, posted by lonewolf91$ on November 22, 2003, at 22:21:46
> I've been on lex for four months now. At first I felt a lot better, happier, more energetic. Now I seem to be slipping back into my old feelings of worthlessness and lack of ethusiasm. I guess it goes to show you real happiness can not be found in a pill.
Have you told your doc? I started @5mg, went to 10mg at week 5, and around the end of 4th month I felt as you do. My doc upped dose to 20mg and still doing well at that dose. It's possible that an increase might help you also, so consult w/doc.
Best of luck!~~~8|8
Posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 14:20:01
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? » sapphira, posted by sfmom on November 23, 2003, at 12:29:41
> Hi Sapphira, I'm glad that the lex seems to be working for you. I'm up to 20mg and although my anxiety is better, the depression is really, really bad. So I'm just waiting out the next three weeks to see how I am after that miraculous six weeks. My doc also extended my disabity until Jan 5 (instead of Dec 1) so that is a big pressure lifted, I just don't know how I'm going to pay the mortgage! I'm still suffering from some stomach problems and have no appetite to speak of but I've started trying to exercise a couple times a week and it's really helped me feel better. I have to say though, the weight loss has been a nice side effect. I never thought I'd be a size 6 again! Of course I know it's not healthy and I'll gain weight as soon as I start eating normally again but with so much dragging me down, it's nice to have some good things too. Take care of yourself and keep us posted!
You may not regain the weight, keep fingers crossed!!! I lost weight in the first few months, went from a size 10 to a 6, and have not gained it back. Have returned to old eating habits. Had a physical and everything checks out ok. Positive thoughts!! I also had trouble w/depression not easing at first, but now seem to have a handle on it most days.
Hang in there and hopefully the best is yet to come!~~~8|8
Posted by Bob67/68 on November 23, 2003, at 17:34:30
In reply to First day, posted by Journeyman on November 22, 2003, at 1:19:46
I am just now on the 4th day of 10mg Lexapro daily dose, as a result of my "world" crashing down due to lots of converging stresses. I am especially interested in hearing from males 55-62 that are also Viet Nam vets with experiences with PTSD. Also se's in this age group. All help/input/info will be appreciated. Thanks for any replies.
Posted by lonewolf91$ on November 23, 2003, at 18:32:45
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? » sapphira, posted by sfmom on November 23, 2003, at 12:29:41
I have noticed an increase in blood pressure since I'v been on lex. On the other hand I have gained ten lbs at the same time. I'm on prenzide for my presure and everything was under contol. Though i'm not experiencing any headachs but I am more tired. So I don't know if all this is se's or I just have been eating too much :).
Posted by Mrs C. on November 23, 2003, at 21:09:04
In reply to Re: Twitching, posted by Dr. Jill on November 20, 2003, at 8:49:50
> After 9 weeks!!! Oh gosh, I really hope the side effects go away soon. I have not even reached the 3 week point and I am really having a hard time. However, I am (was) hopeful that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Now, I do not know. UGH! Jill
>
> > > Does anyone ever experience any twitching in their legs and fingers. I feel like my body is jumping a lot sometimes when I am sitting still.
> > > I also hope I get my appetite back before Thanksgiving! LOL
> >
> > Erin, I cant say I get the twitching fingers, but the "jumpy" feeling, the clenched teeth, the feeling of "cant sit still" is definately still there after 9 weeks. As for the appetite, I like some of the others here have to force myself to eat too. Other times, I am actually hungry. I hope we ALL can enjoy the Holiday season and may we all feel better sooooooooooon!!!! *SSSSSSSS*
>
> Hi, I have been on lex 10 mgs for 3 weeks now. I too have experienced the twitching in my legs, especially at night when I am trying to relax! I also have that feeling of shaking when I am not shaking. I call it the "jitters" . It feels like I am cold and shivering but Im not. My jaw also feels funny. Weird! Also my s/e's went away after 10 days and have now returned. Has that ever happened to anyone? When do they go away for good. I have also been reading that it is really hard to go off lex and I am scared. How long do people usually need to stay on lex? I am on it for anxiety and obsessive thoughts over medical problems that dont exist. But now I have these s/e's to worry about instead! UGH!
Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:18:29
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? Richard, posted by sapphira on November 22, 2003, at 22:29:15
Thank you for your reply. I'm trying to learn as much as I can by reading through the postings and since you'd mentioned some fairly quick physical & emotional effects, I just wanted to find out a little more.
I'm surprised at how quickly the s/es have sprung up. I've had mild nausea most of the day today and the drythroat seems to happen in the evening, which seems odd to me since I'm taking the medication in the morning. My mind has been very clear, no dopey effect, and I've been more upbeat and energized than I've been in weeks, but I suspect the latter have been from euphoria that I'm trying something new that might help and I feel good that I'm trying to do something else to take care of myself.
Today my appetite hasn't been as strong as it has been. (I'd gained 15 pounds in the previous 10 weeks).
I'm also trying to get my sleeping schedule back to some semblance of normalcy, after several weeks of 3-5 hours of sleep.
It's interesting to see how differently people experience the drug: weight gain/weight loss; insomnia / drowsiness; etc.
Thanks again for your reply. It's good to know that people look out for each other.
Richard
Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:24:40
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by RRCarlo on November 23, 2003, at 11:09:08
Hi,
And welcome to the neighborhood. My third day too, so I'm interested to see how this will go.
Good luck.
Richard
Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:33:05
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? » sapphira, posted by sfmom on November 23, 2003, at 12:29:41
Dear SFMom:
I'm so glad to hear you received another month's extension on the disability. And congratulations on doing the exercise. Look how different things are for you today than they were when you posted only a few days ago. We live only one day at a time and you're making progress. Keep at it because you deserve it. We all do.
Richard
Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:35:43
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? » sfmom, posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 14:20:01
Hi Mariposa:
Great signature. How long have you been on Lex?
Richard
Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:40:28
In reply to Re: First day, posted by Bob67/68 on November 23, 2003, at 17:34:30
I'm 40 and no experience with (military) combat, but I wish you luck with your own journey and hope you find peace.
Richard
Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:43:56
In reply to blood pressure increase, posted by lonewolf91$ on November 23, 2003, at 18:32:45
My doctor specifically asked whether I had high blood pressure before he was willing to prescribe Lex. Sounds as though there may be a pattern.
Posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 21:45:58
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? » Mariposa, posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:35:43
> Hi Mariposa:
>
> Great signature. How long have you been on Lex?
>
> RichardStarted @5mg end of Feb., went to 10mg wk 5, went to 20mg in Sept.
Signature - My *attempted* Butterfly....This is CORNY but.....sybmolizes my NEW Lexapro form - busted out of chrysalis of PMDD and depression and insomnia = that was OKPOLOSI!
~~~8|8
Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:50:38
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing??, posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 21:45:58
I really like it - wonderful symbolism and clever.
Are the dosage increases due to the lower amounts no longer being effective or is your doctor's plan to keep increasing them anyway as as your body adjusts to the medication?
Richard
Posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 22:00:41
In reply to Mariposa, posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:50:38
> I really like it - wonderful symbolism and clever.
>
> Are the dosage increases due to the lower amounts no longer being effective or is your doctor's plan to keep increasing them anyway as as your body adjusts to the medication?
>
> RichardFormer, not latter, I'm sorry to say!! My fear is that I will experience the dreaded poop-out effect.
I was pxd Lex by gyn doc, he refused to let me increase over 10mg, said that was the max he would give me. So went through the mill ( counselor, pdoc, insurance hassel) and pdoc upped dose to 20mg. He said he might consider raising beyond that if needed, and that he had paitents taking 30 and 40mg. So far 20 is still working.~~~8|8
Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 22:14:02
In reply to Re: Mariposa » Journeyman, posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 22:00:41
Given what I've just read about PMDD I'm not surprised you got started on AD medication. Did you have depression before you felt (or recognized) the PMDD symptoms? I'm asking because I'm wondering what your pdoc's plan is. Mine wants me to try it for a year to see if I can 'break the cycle' of depression that comes and goes.
Richard
Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 22:23:34
In reply to Re: Mariposa » Journeyman, posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 22:00:41
Am checking out for the night - back tomorrow night. In the meantime, perhaps I'll have some inspiration about a clever signature. Thanks for your replies.
Richard
Posted by Mariposa on November 24, 2003, at 0:16:04
In reply to Re: Mariposa » Mariposa, posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 22:14:02
> Given what I've just read about PMDD I'm not surprised you got started on AD medication. Did you have depression before you felt (or recognized) the PMDD symptoms? I'm asking because I'm wondering what your pdoc's plan is. Mine wants me to try it for a year to see if I can 'break the cycle' of depression that comes and goes.
>
> RichardI suppose I have been depressed for quite a while and just did not realize it. I thought I was just tired, or getting old. Also have been an insomniac most of adult life, and didn't think THAT could cause depression either.
About 2 years ago I started feeling different physically and mentally and just thought I was peri-menopausal, even though I was 46. Saw gyn doc and was dx w/PMDD. We didn't discuss length of treatment, something to talk about next time I see him for once yearly visit. I suppose I will continue on it, have had good results .....so far.~~~8|8
Posted by Gator on November 24, 2003, at 9:12:40
In reply to how's everyone doing??, posted by sapphira on November 22, 2003, at 18:53:29
Hey everybody,
I think that this holiday season is going to the best I have had in a very long time. I had Thanksgiving with some family from out of town on Sat. and almost everyone noticed a positive change in me. I was able to relax and have a very good time. I have been taking 10mg of Lex for 7 weeks now and I am feeling good. I have struggled with depression since I was a kid but was never treated. I wonder now how my life could have been better if I would have been treated before I was over 30. But, I can't look back just look forward to each tommorow!!
Thanks to everybody who gives support to anyone who needs it!!
Gator
Posted by sfmom on November 24, 2003, at 15:24:54
In reply to Re: First day, posted by Bob67/68 on November 23, 2003, at 17:34:30
> I am just now on the 4th day of 10mg Lexapro daily dose, as a result of my "world" crashing down due to lots of converging stresses. I am especially interested in hearing from males 55-62 that are also Viet Nam vets with experiences with PTSD. Also se's in this age group. All help/input/info will be appreciated. Thanks for any replies.
Hi and welcome. I am neither a vet nor in the above age group but am being treated for PTSD. Obviously, meds by themselves aren't going to make it "go away" and it always seems to rear its ugly head just when you thought you got it under control. I honestly don't know that it will ever be gone, but I've gotten better at finding help for myself and knowing when to ask for it. As for treatment, EMDR has been extremely helpful for me. I also have a therapist who specializes in PTSD and is wonderful. Hopefully, in conjunction with the meds, I'll be able to get through this one, which has been the worst so far.
I have seen first-hand the effects Viet Nam has had on people. The first time I saw my father cry, we were driving down the freeway and some helicopters went over us and he just froze, told me to get out of the car (safely on the shoulder) and just cried. He's now 50 (he went over when he was just 17) and still has nightmares.
Most importantly, you are not alone. We are here to help you in any way possible, and there are so many people who have shared your experiences in Viet Nam and have lived through the same horrors. Good luck.
Posted by sfmom on November 24, 2003, at 15:28:33
In reply to Keep at it » sfmom, posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:33:05
> Dear SFMom:
>
> I'm so glad to hear you received another month's extension on the disability. And congratulations on doing the exercise. Look how different things are for you today than they were when you posted only a few days ago. We live only one day at a time and you're making progress. Keep at it because you deserve it. We all do.
>
> RichardWhat a sweetheart you are. Thank you for pointing out the good things for me!
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