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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by orlando on November 28, 2003, at 11:03:44
In reply to Re: Has anyone stopped taking Celexa/Lexapro? SE? » orlando, posted by Wildflower on November 26, 2003, at 8:02:07
Thanks - that's exactly what I decided to do. I am currently on 10mg (1/2 of what I was taking) and the dizziness went away immediately. I'll drop to 5mg and go from there. Thanks for replying.
Posted by tiredman on November 28, 2003, at 20:47:56
In reply to re: Lexapro sexual side effects, posted by Bill435 on November 26, 2003, at 12:28:36
I've had major agitation/anxiety problems after taking Lexapro. I started at 2.5mg. and am up to 15 mg. now. My problem started as a trauma which lead to insomnia. I take lorazapam, trazadone and perhenazine (sp?) just to get a nights sleep.
Don't know about the sexual side effects. I've been married for 20 years :)
Posted by ddev99 on November 29, 2003, at 0:00:30
In reply to Re: Lexapro clinical data, posted by maxamillion on November 6, 2003, at 20:50:44
Hello everyone. First-time poster, long-time reader. Thank you all for providing "real life" reports on trying to manage depression and anxiety, two evils that have haunted me for close to 50 years now.
I have been taking SAMe since April, '03, when I lost my health insurance. I had been on Effexor XR and the usual SSRI trials for about 10 years prior to that. Never had more than a partial response from any prescribed AD, but still was scared to death to go without. The SAMe was awesome, at first. I felt better than I had for the previous 10 years! And no side-effects! Just felt clean and bright!
I've gradually gone from 400mg SAMe to 1400mg to maintain a decent mood. Seems my depression eventually adjusts to whatever I throw at it. It's getting too expensive to stay on SAMe and I'm just about at the suggested limit, anyway.
My new plan: I ordered Lexapro on-line without a 'scrip. Have been starting slowly: 5mg every other day. My hope is to find a balance between an affordable amount of SAMe and as little Lex as I can get away with. Just began this protocal on Monday. Would be happy to keep anyone who's interested informed on my progress and would love to hear any and all thoughts on this plan of mine. Thanks again for all the valuable info you provide.
Posted by Mariposa on November 29, 2003, at 19:02:13
In reply to Re: Lexapro side-effects - CSWIFE pls read, posted by Okpolosi on May 24, 2003, at 11:43:46
> > I have been reading posts here for a month or so and decided I should share my Lex experiences, too. What I have read has been so helpfull and thank you all for sharing.
> > I'm in week 5 on 5mg and I take it late morning, around 10:00AM. Female 47, diagnosed with PMDD and depression, have never taken any meds before. Just haven't felt like my usual self for a couple of years it seems. Thought I was peri-menopausal, but Dr says it's PMDD. Was having terrible fights w/husband and fits of rage at work, while having to deal with customers, NOT good! Recently lost Mother-in-Law, we were pretty close, and both me and husband were hit pretty hard. Inherited a big house that needs a lot of work.
> > Week 1 - Nausea for a few hours after taking, mild diahrea, REALLY bad Headaches in the evening. Felt tired and foggy headed in the afternoon. Noticed some mild anxiety. No trouble sleeping. Towards end of week started feeling like I was getting the flu. Noticed my teeth hurt and realized I was clenching. Didn't want to eat at all, no appetite.
> > Week 2 - People at work have the flu, I called in sick all week, really felt terrible and don't know for sure if it was Lex or flu, had no fever, but had headaches, congestion, runny nose, chills, diahrea, slept A LOT, day and night. Eat like a pig but actually lost a pound or two, realy crave carbs ( Potatoe chips, Chex mix, etc. ). Occasional anxiety. Got an itchy rash all over my back and top of my arms. Head feels "big" and spacey. Have to tell self not to clench teeth.
> > Week 3 - "Flu" symptoms going away, feel very tired, no energy, short of breath if I do anything. Head still feels funny - spacey. Sweaty armpits on some days, blurry vision, a few mild night sweats, but in general no trouble sleeping. Still have mild diahrea. Had one day of bad lower back pain. Anxiety seems to occur less often. Gained back the pounds I lost.
> > Week 4 - Feel better physically, not mentally - still very angry and irritable, period is coming. A little trouble sleeping, want to blame husband for keeping me awake. Sweaty pits seem to have gone away, head doesn't feel funny any more, still have mild diahrea (not really a problem, just different than usual). Energy returning, able to do a lot more at work without feeling out of breath. Still clenching some but not as bad.
> > Week 5 - Actually haven't finished week 5, only half way through. Got a customer complaint at work because I was such a BITCH! Supposed to be having period but hasn't actually started yet. Snapped at husband for no reason. Blurry vision improved slightly. Still don't want to get out of bed in the morning. Am starting to wonder if I should take 7.5mg or even 10 as I don't feel "better", but then figure I should still give it another week or 2, not sure I have given Lex long enough to help.
> > I will update, and again want to thank everyone for your input, it helps to know you are not alone!!!
>
> This is one of my old posts. Save you some trouble, hope it helps!~~~8|8
Posted by C.Burton on November 29, 2003, at 20:31:58
In reply to I'm leaning towards no on Lexapro, posted by Bill435 on November 27, 2003, at 14:27:41
Well, my husband has been on Lexapro for almost a week now and this is all new for us anyway. So, he takes it once a day and within 2 hours after taking it, his irritability goes away(main part of his depression is anger). He takes it at night so I can tell he is better until the next afternoon and then he starts getting his symptoms again. Also, he has had trouble falling asleep and reaching climax during sex. Has anyone else had these experiences? Will they go away?
Posted by nemo kitty on November 29, 2003, at 20:56:20
In reply to Re: Lexapro side-effects - FLU!, posted by Mariposa on November 29, 2003, at 19:02:13
hi
just read your "old" post~did you ever get your period?? I am 2 weeks late (not pregnant) and on about week 5. My vision is still blurry and I am very tired in the mornings. All I do is eat crap now too. I don't know what to do. Are you on it still? Do you like it? thanks!
Posted by Mariposa on November 29, 2003, at 22:27:38
In reply to Re: Lexapro side-effects - FLU!, posted by nemo kitty on November 29, 2003, at 20:56:20
> hi
> just read your "old" post~
>
> did you ever get your period?? I am 2 weeks late (not pregnant) and on about week 5. My vision is still blurry and I am very tired in the mornings. All I do is eat crap now too. I don't know what to do. Are you on it still? Do you like it? thanks!I skipped a couple, but now back to normal cycle. Still taking Lex 20mg, and for the most part it's working. Few days are downers but nothing like they used to be. Tiredness also got better after a WHILE.
Posted by Erin1679 on November 30, 2003, at 0:47:12
In reply to Re: I'm leaning towards no on Lexapro, posted by C.Burton on November 29, 2003, at 20:31:58
I've been taking Lexapro for a little over two months because of my anxiety and constant worry.
Just a question...when you take the pill...what exactly does it do? Does it take a while for it to build up in your system or something? Or is it like asprin or something that wears off. Is it doing something to my brain? (If anyone knows a website where I can educate myself on this, please let me know)
I am taking 10mg, and I dont know if it is doing anything. Is it because I am not suffering from depression? I thought that I was supposed to feel better than I ever felt, but I still have the same stress, I'm still snappy at times, and I still worry about the same irrational things. (sorry...just started rambling)
Posted by jane47 on November 30, 2003, at 7:06:05
In reply to Questions, posted by Erin1679 on November 30, 2003, at 0:47:12
Lexapro increases the serotonin levels in your brain. Serotonin effects mood. I too am on 10 mg of lexapro. It's been 5 weeks. I was put on this by my doc because of anxiety and constant worrying. It has helped me tremendously. It does take a while to feel the full effects. (between 4-6 weeks). Like any drug there are side effects. They vary from person to person. These postings really help you learn about the effects of meds from a laymans perspective. Talk to your doctor. Get as much info as you can so you can make informed decisions. If it is not helping you might need more or it may not be the drug of choice for you. Good luck
...Jane
Posted by ddev99 on November 30, 2003, at 13:12:13
In reply to Questions, posted by Erin1679 on November 30, 2003, at 0:47:12
> I've been taking Lexapro for a little over two months because of my anxiety and constant worry.
> Just a question...when you take the pill...what exactly does it do? Does it take a while for it to build up in your system or something? Or is it like asprin or something that wears off. Is it doing something to my brain? (If anyone knows a website where I can educate myself on this, please let me know)
> I am taking 10mg, and I dont know if it is doing anything. Is it because I am not suffering from depression? I thought that I was supposed to feel better than I ever felt, but I still have the same stress, I'm still snappy at times, and I still worry about the same irrational things. (sorry...just started rambling)Hello, Erin... here is a link that may answer some of your questions about Lexapro. Keep in mind, this is THE Lexapro site, and so will paint the rosiest picture it can. Still good for addressing your basic questions, though. My thought is, if you haven't noticed improvement after 8 weeks, this may not be the drug you need.--ddev
http://www.lexapro.com/about_lexapro/faqs.asp
Posted by Erin1679 on November 30, 2003, at 13:40:35
In reply to Re: Questions » Erin1679, posted by ddev99 on November 30, 2003, at 13:12:13
My thought is, if you haven't noticed improvement after 8 weeks, this may not be the drug you need.--ddev
> http://www.lexapro.com/about_lexapro/faqs.asp
>I've been thinking the same thing, thank you for your reply. I am going to make an appointment with the doctor. Maybe I need a higher dosage, or something totally different.
As I said before, I am not suffering from depression. I just get very stressed out and worry about things that others would think is trivial. I am also getting married next October, and I am a 24 year old Special Ed teacher, teaching Preschool Autistic children ages 3-5 (which is physically, mentally and emotionally stressful in itself)
I just figured that extra serotonin would be beneficial to anyone, and that I should feel a difference.....my fiance notices a small difference, and I must admit I do too....but after 2 months I thought I'd be at the "peak" already......
I'll talk to my doc, and let you all know what I've decided. Thanks again :)
Posted by Bill435 on November 30, 2003, at 19:46:15
In reply to Re: I'm leaning towards no on Lexapro, posted by C.Burton on November 29, 2003, at 20:31:58
Have your husband try skipping a dose prior to sex. This may not be a medically approved option, however it has worked for me, with no effect on depression.
Posted by LynneLaf on November 30, 2003, at 21:01:02
In reply to Re: I'm leaning towards no on Lexapro, posted by Bill435 on November 30, 2003, at 19:46:15
Quick question for anyone. I have been on Lex for 1 week, for the last 2 days I have had a terrible headache in my neck and up to my sinuses. I have a lot of sinus issues to begin with so I can't tell if this is a side effect or my sinuses acting up. Anyone have headaches? I have noticed a little difference in my mood, I am more able to control my temper a little longer with dealing with my children who are 3 and 5 and my husband. I am really tired though, I could sleep all the time and I have no energy for anything. Thanks for listening to me bable. Have a good night.
Posted by Mariposa on November 30, 2003, at 21:22:30
In reply to Re: Lexapro side-effects - FLU!, posted by Mariposa on November 29, 2003, at 19:02:13
> > > Week 1 - Nausea for a few hours after taking, mild diahrea, REALLY bad Headaches in the evening. Felt tired and foggy headed in the afternoon. Noticed some mild anxiety. No trouble sleeping. Towards end of week started feeling like I was getting the flu. Noticed my teeth hurt and realized I was clenching. Didn't want to eat at all, no appetite.
> > This is one of my old posts. ~~~8|8
>
Posted by Karalyn on December 1, 2003, at 1:29:29
In reply to Side Effects, posted by LynneLaf on November 30, 2003, at 21:01:02
I had headaches too. i still do a little. im on the second week. I also think I have a cold now that i got a few days ago. i wondered if it was the med at first but now that my throat and everything is acting like its a full fledged cold thats what i think i have. i think you could call your doctor about this too though. he or she would be able to help you knowing your history of sinus issues.
> Quick question for anyone. I have been on Lex for 1 week, for the last 2 days I have had a terrible headache in my neck and up to my sinuses. I have a lot of sinus issues to begin with so I can't tell if this is a side effect or my sinuses acting up. Anyone have headaches? I have noticed a little difference in my mood, I am more able to control my temper a little longer with dealing with my children who are 3 and 5 and my husband. I am really tired though, I could sleep all the time and I have no energy for anything. Thanks for listening to me bable. Have a good night.
Posted by LynneLaf on December 1, 2003, at 7:25:53
In reply to Re: Side Effects, posted by Karalyn on December 1, 2003, at 1:29:29
Thanks for the advice. I have no headache really today, just I am very tired and foggy. I know this is from the meds. I am looking foward to being a little clearer as the weeks go on.
Posted by brian19876 on December 1, 2003, at 10:22:02
In reply to Re: Side Effects, posted by LynneLaf on December 1, 2003, at 7:25:53
ive been on lexapo for 16 days now i am sick in the stomach, tired all the time and its hard to achive a climax will this pass in time
Posted by melley on December 1, 2003, at 16:36:15
In reply to I'm leaning towards no on Lexapro, posted by Bill435 on November 27, 2003, at 14:27:41
I can't imagine how you could have a caffeiney feeling on lexapro! I took 10mg and was practically asleep all the time; now I take 5 mg and it is virtually side effect free. I took wellbutrin but had a bad reaction to it. Was on effexor for a year (nightmare drug). Lexapro is great. Just calms me down with no side effects. And on only 5mg. I am all for it. And think it can't hurt to try something because it might be just the right thing.> For several years I have been taking Wellbutrin 150mg and Celexa 20mg. That has been OK, except for the sexual side effect which I found a way to work around (see earlier post). My doctor suggested changing the Celexa to Lexapro 10mg. So far, (about a week) I'm not convinced. Some headache and a case of nerves, like the way too much caffiene feeling. So, unless things change, it will be back to Celexa for me.
> Bill
> PS - Happy Thanksgiving - tomorrow I turn 62, and exactly half those years have been spent taking, off and on, some kind of depresion medication.
Posted by Mrs C. on December 1, 2003, at 20:45:57
In reply to Side Effects, posted by LynneLaf on November 30, 2003, at 21:01:02
> Quick question for anyone. I have been on Lex for 1 week, for the last 2 days I have had a terrible headache in my neck and up to my sinuses. I have a lot of sinus issues to begin with so I can't tell if this is a side effect or my sinuses acting up. Anyone have headaches? I have noticed a little difference in my mood, I am more able to control my temper a little longer with dealing with my children who are 3 and 5 and my husband. I am really tired though, I could sleep all the time and I have no energy for anything. Thanks for listening to me bable. Have a good night.
Hi, I really haven't had headaches as a side effect on Lex but I
have read that Lex can cause headaches. Good Luck to you.
Posted by COOP on December 1, 2003, at 23:03:38
In reply to Re: Side Effects, posted by brian19876 on December 1, 2003, at 10:22:02
> ive been on lexapo for 16 days now i am sick in the stomach, tired all the time and its hard to achive a climax will this pass in time
I had all your SE. Felt worse with the drug.
In the middle of my 5th week felt great like waking up from a nightmare. Most of the SE are gone and I can control my feelings and reason now.
The best
Posted by MissPBY on December 1, 2003, at 23:14:00
In reply to Re: Side Effects, posted by Mrs C. on December 1, 2003, at 20:45:57
Hi, I've been on Lex for 3 months and I get the same kind of headaches. I didn't have them before so I do think they are because of the Lex.
> Quick question for anyone. I have been on Lex for 1 week, for the last 2 days I have had a terrible headache in my neck and up to my sinuses. I have a lot of sinus issues to begin with so I can't tell if this is a side effect or my sinuses acting up. Anyone have headaches? I have noticed a little difference in my mood, I am more able to control my temper a little longer with dealing with my children who are 3 and 5 and my husband. I am really tired though, I could sleep all the time and I have no energy for anything. Thanks for listening to me bable. Have a good night.
>
> Hi, I really haven't had headaches as a side effect on Lex but I
> have read that Lex can cause headaches. Good Luck to you.
Posted by Bill435 on December 1, 2003, at 23:22:09
In reply to Re: Side Effects, posted by COOP on December 1, 2003, at 23:03:38
If anybody wants another source for evaluations of Lexapro effectiveness, check out this website. The respondents here provide an actual rating based upon their experience. However, I was not able to find how these ratings compare with other AD medications.
Bill
Posted by Bill435 on December 1, 2003, at 23:32:01
In reply to Another website on Lexapro, posted by Bill435 on December 1, 2003, at 23:22:09
Followup on previous post -
Went back and looked again - yes the website does provide a long list of medications and other therapy, with number ratings. Lexapro is rated just under Celexa - and just above aroma therapy! (I'm serious.)
Bill
Posted by C.Burton on December 2, 2003, at 16:21:43
In reply to Re: I'm leaning towards no on Lexapro, posted by Bill435 on November 30, 2003, at 19:46:15
Thanks for the responses! I really appreciate anyone's help. I am starting to get very downhearted about this whole medicine thing already and it has only been a week for my husband. I don't see how all of you have dealt with these issues for so long. I commend you all. My question is does anyone know of a better med for my husband's depression. He just has been on the Lexapro for a week but all of his "depression" symptoms(sleeping too much and hostility)have not seemed to abated at all. Actually, he is sleeping more if anything!! It is so hard to get him motivated. If he is not working on a particular day then he just eats and sleeps all day!!
Someone help
Posted by Annette2 on December 2, 2003, at 16:59:14
In reply to Another website on Lexapro, posted by Bill435 on December 1, 2003, at 23:22:09
Hi Bill, Thanks for the link. I have read about 5 pages of patient comments/ratings about Lexapro. A few people here and there seem to be helped by it, but almost everyone is sleepy and gaining weight.
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