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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Neatfreak on December 19, 2003, at 21:38:57
In reply to Re: Lexapro has been very good for me, posted by piscesmoon7 on February 4, 2003, at 15:45:48
I have been on Lesapro for 8 days with no noticeable effects pro or con
Posted by Bali on December 20, 2003, at 9:03:46
In reply to Re: side effects of Lex, posted by Anjul on December 19, 2003, at 12:09:34
Anjul, Have you tried the otc drug, Diphenhydramine? It is found in Benadryl or store forms of the same. Very inexpensive! It is also the ingredient in Tylenol P.M.. I take the liquid allergy medicine form and buy it at Publix because they have their store brand, Publix ALLERGY MEDICINE in a pink and white box. It is SO much cheaper than Tylenol P.M. and does not have the added pain relief that you may not need at bedtime. If you decide to take it, take the maximum dosage for adults (4 tsp.), and that will equal the amount found in the Tylenol P.M. medicine.
I've tried Trazadone and found that diphenhydramine works better for me and I feel less drugged/more refreshed in the morning. At times I've also added Melatonin, found in most supplement aisles of grocery stores, if after taking the diphenhydramine I wake up in the night or am not asleep 45 minutes after taking it. I really hope this helps!! It has been a life saver for me. Bali
Posted by Derrille on December 20, 2003, at 10:16:28
In reply to Once more into the breech my friends..., posted by tiredman on December 19, 2003, at 14:05:04
Oldhand,
I have just begun on Lexapro, but I know as a psychotherapist that antidepressants are not designed for long-term use, only short-term use while a person is in therapy. I used Prozac and Buspar 15 years ago as I was a victim of repeated trauma as a child and adolescent and the repercussions hit me much later in life. I was only on these medications for 1 1/2 years and was in therapy twice a week for six months, then once a week for a year. I encourage you as one who has had to undergo extensive recovery for trauma, please seek to get into a support group and professional weekly therapy.
Posted by Mariposa on December 20, 2003, at 11:16:39
In reply to Re: anyone get these side effects, posted by Derrille on December 19, 2003, at 20:53:45
> Someone recently reported that their neck itched after getting on Lexapro. I want to find out more. I started Lexapro two months ago and for the last month, the back of my neck has constantly itched and even woken me up at night...is there a connection...is this an unreported side-effect?
I had an itchy rash on my back and tops of my arms, but it went away by 4th week.~~~8|8
Posted by Neatfreak on December 21, 2003, at 7:15:20
In reply to Re: Lexapro has been very good for me, posted by Neatfreak on December 19, 2003, at 21:38:57
10th day on Lexapro, got more sleep last night than than the total for the last 6 days. First time I have felt normal for weeks
Posted by ocdforyears on December 21, 2003, at 12:49:48
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
Hey gang,
man, do I feel for the people on this board (including myself); the anxiety here is palpable, and the desire for relief as well.
I felt a lift in depression after one week at 5 mg of lex (I felt too stimulated to go higher). Now it's been about twelve days and I still feel stimulated. So far, no change in my ocd or anxiety levels; if anything, they may be a tad increased. This is only the second ssri I've tried (zoloft really sent me for a loop and I couldn't stay on it). I know every med, and every person, is different. I also know the stimulating effects can wear off. But I'm questioning whether this is the right med for me. I was making progress, slow progress, in conventional therapy. I do have some cognitive tools, though I want more (been reading Brain Lock and Stop Obsessing, both have helpful points).
But my heart seems to beat a little harder, I feel overly alert, and even a bit more anxious than before I started the lex. And again, I'm only on 5 mg. I'll call my psych and let her know all this. She mentioned paxil when I told her I found zoloft too stimulating; but then I hear paxil can make you gain weight...tough to say.
What are there now, seven or eight of these meds? That's a lot of meds to try.
I enjoy feeling less depressed, but I don't like the stimulation. And I know ocd takes longer to respond to these meds than depression anyway.
Well, here's best wishes to all those of you still searching, and congratulations to you (you really are lucky) if lex is really helping you.
I do think, still, that though meds and cognitive work are ncessary to heal from my ocd, that the deep core is emotional. But that stuff heals so slowly, and I think ocd requires some cognitive work because it's a thought disorder.
Well, best of luck. I'll keep posting here as long as I'm trying lex. I haven't thrown the towel in on it yet.
Posted by Anna G on December 21, 2003, at 13:43:53
In reply to Re: Lexapro has been very good for me, posted by Neatfreak on December 19, 2003, at 21:38:57
It was suggested by my neorologist that I take Lexapro for headaches and migraine issues. I am afraid of the side effects if any. What do ya think?
Posted by nicky847 on December 21, 2003, at 13:58:23
In reply to mixed results so far, posted by ocdforyears on December 21, 2003, at 12:49:48
The fact that your depression feels improved after such a short time is a great sign! The increased anxiety the first couple of weeks is very common..and it should subside in time..usually week 2 and 3 are the peak of that S/E...good luck and hang in there sounds like you may respond well to the med!
> Hey gang,
>
> man, do I feel for the people on this board (including myself); the anxiety here is palpable, and the desire for relief as well.
>
> I felt a lift in depression after one week at 5 mg of lex (I felt too stimulated to go higher). Now it's been about twelve days and I still feel stimulated. So far, no change in my ocd or anxiety levels; if anything, they may be a tad increased. This is only the second ssri I've tried (zoloft really sent me for a loop and I couldn't stay on it). I know every med, and every person, is different. I also know the stimulating effects can wear off. But I'm questioning whether this is the right med for me. I was making progress, slow progress, in conventional therapy. I do have some cognitive tools, though I want more (been reading Brain Lock and Stop Obsessing, both have helpful points).
>
> But my heart seems to beat a little harder, I feel overly alert, and even a bit more anxious than before I started the lex. And again, I'm only on 5 mg. I'll call my psych and let her know all this. She mentioned paxil when I told her I found zoloft too stimulating; but then I hear paxil can make you gain weight...tough to say.
>
> What are there now, seven or eight of these meds? That's a lot of meds to try.
>
> I enjoy feeling less depressed, but I don't like the stimulation. And I know ocd takes longer to respond to these meds than depression anyway.
>
> Well, here's best wishes to all those of you still searching, and congratulations to you (you really are lucky) if lex is really helping you.
>
> I do think, still, that though meds and cognitive work are ncessary to heal from my ocd, that the deep core is emotional. But that stuff heals so slowly, and I think ocd requires some cognitive work because it's a thought disorder.
>
> Well, best of luck. I'll keep posting here as long as I'm trying lex. I haven't thrown the towel in on it yet.
>
>
Posted by BobYuma on December 21, 2003, at 19:05:20
In reply to mixed results so far, posted by ocdforyears on December 21, 2003, at 12:49:48
> > > I felt a lift in depression after one week at 5 mg of lex (I felt too stimulated to go higher) .... This is only the second ssri I've tried (zoloft really sent me for a loop and I couldn't stay on it). I know every med, and every person, is different. I also know the stimulating effects can wear off. But I'm questioning whether this is the right med for me .....
my heart seems to beat a little harder, I feel overly alert, and even a bit more anxious than before I started the lex ..... I enjoy feeling less depressed, but I don't like the stimulation.
> > > > > > >Hello there, ocdforyears.
Just wanted to comment on your statments about the over-stimulation with the Lexapro.
I'm into my third week on Lexapro now, and you're right, the stimulation is a real drag. But my depression has really lifted so to me it's worth it. I can tell you a few things that I've discovered about the stimulation.
Mine gets pretty bad at times, in fact, it feels almost like a panic attack starting. It usually starts in the afternoon and continues into the late evening. I've noticed that caffeine really makes it a lot worse, in fact, it seems like the stimulation doubles at the very least with caffeine. Also, sweets do the very same thing as the caffeine does, so I try to stay away from both.
My doc gave me some lorazepam when I was having the panic and anxiety attacks, and it helps with the over-stimulation if it gets too bad.
Hope this helps a bit.
Take care and remember, there's always a brighter day to look forward to.
Sincerely, BobYuma
Posted by Mrs C. on December 21, 2003, at 20:59:14
In reply to Re: Lexapro has been very good for me, posted by Anna G on December 21, 2003, at 13:43:53
> It was suggested by my neorologist that I take Lexapro for headaches and migraine issues. I am afraid of the side effects if any. What do ya think?
My husband was prescribed zoloft for the very same reason. I know it is a different med, but it really has worked wonders for him. Cluster headaches and migraines are gone! And he is a much happier person. He was tired for about 3 weeks but now has no se's from zoloft. If lex doesn't work for you maybe try it. Good luck.
Posted by Oldhand on December 21, 2003, at 22:07:22
In reply to Re: Lexapro has been very good for me, posted by Anna G on December 21, 2003, at 13:43:53
Anna,
I am beginning my second year on Lexapro for depression.
I also get migraines but have had only one while taking Lexapro and that night I drank some cheap wine (too much).
If you have read up on the side effects you might try the medication for your headaches and migraines. Some people have no side effects at all, many only have slight ones. I would guess that the sample of folks represented here leans in the direction of seeking support for nearly intolerable and/or prolonged discomfort.
Your doc may give you such a small dose that it may help with migraines and have no side effects at all or if you do they will be slight and be gone quickly.
I wish you the best, and a migraine free New Year.
Shelley
Posted by Trisha Longhair on December 22, 2003, at 0:36:38
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
>I am concerned because after a recent increase, I attempted suicide. I am trying to figure it all out. I stopped Lexapro 6 weeks ago and I am feeling much better now..I was on a lower dose for almost a year..
[Posted by ggrrl on June 11, 2002, at 1:19:51]
>
> > Seems like there are a lot of people on here who have talked about Lexapro's improved side-effects, specifically that it has less tiredness and sexual side effects than Celexa. Some have said that it has the same side effects as Celexa. However most people are quoting from press releases - does anyone here know from experience (theirs or others')?
>
>
Posted by jane47 on December 22, 2003, at 6:16:53
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by Trisha Longhair on December 22, 2003, at 0:36:38
> >I am concerned because after a recent increase, I attempted suicide. I am trying to figure it all out. I stopped Lexapro 6 weeks ago and I am feeling much better now..I was on a lower dose for almost a year..
>
> [Posted by ggrrl on June 11, 2002, at 1:19:51]
> >
> > > Seems like there are a lot of people on here who have talked about Lexapro's improved side-effects, specifically that it has less tiredness and sexual side effects than Celexa. Some have said that it has the same side effects as Celexa. However most people are quoting from press releases - does anyone here know from experience (theirs or others')?
> >
> > I took celexa 4 years ago. The sexual side effects and tiredness were much worse than lex. I have been on lex for 9 weeks now and those side effects are gone. For me this is a much better drug. Hope it works well for you.
....Jane47
>
>
Posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 9:23:06
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by Trisha Longhair on December 22, 2003, at 0:36:38
Trisha, I'm sad to hear about your suicide attempt, that's got to be hard after being on Lex for a year. Why did you increase your dosage and what did you go up to? I know these meds can "poop-out" after a while. Is it your thought that increasing the dosage was not an alternative if you felt your depression coming back? Did you change to another med? Just curious, as I've only been on Lex 2 months now (10 mg) and am not sympton-free, but much much better!
Examples of success for me are: I only blow up at my husband and kids about once per week, vs. once a day, I actually try and put on make-up/do my hair before work now (& other self-care things I've neglected), I've started getting back in touch with friends I've been out of touch with for several years. I have more emotional and physical energy to handle things that come my way. I don't cry for no reason on an almost daily basis! I don't have anxiety attacks on the way home from work anymore. I'm more productive and am an actual participant in my work world, instead of being in a daze and barely getting by.
Best wishes for success to everyone trying these meds and hang in there thru the s/e's - they usually go away in a month or so and I think most have found they've been worth the wait!
~ Lynne
Posted by Gator on December 22, 2003, at 9:39:03
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 9:23:06
Merry Christmas everyone,
I don't post very often, but I read every day. I had a very terrible situation happen in my life 2 weeks ago and without Lex I would have never had the strength to get through it. I have been on 10mg for 3 months now. Without the support of my Mom, my best friend,Lex and reading this board daily I would have slipped into the dark hole of depresion again. The situation is getting better and I am seeing the light and feeling better. It is going to be a hard Christmas but I will be smiling!
Thanks to all and have a happy and peaceful Holiday!
Gator
Posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 10:03:53
In reply to Thank goodness for Lexapro!, posted by Gator on December 22, 2003, at 9:39:03
Here's a hug for you {{{{Gator}}}}}, glad you can see the light! Peace to you and Merry Christmas!
~ Lynne
Posted by BobYuma on December 22, 2003, at 10:26:12
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 9:23:06
>>> Best wishes for success to everyone trying these meds and hang in there thru the s/e's - they usually go away in a month or so and I think most have found they've been worth the wait!
> > ~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Hi, Lynne.
I'm really glad to hear that you're doing so well with Lexapro.
You said that you've been on Lex for two months, and most SE's have gone away. My question is, did you have the side effect of clenching your jaws and teeth, and if so, has that side effect completely gone away yet?
I'm four days into my third week with Lex, and this is probably my biggest problem at this time, because it seems to be getting worse. I woke up about four times last night with my jaws hurting from clenching my jaws and teeth together. The jaws are actually sore this morning. I hope this SE goes away soon, I hate it.
Thanks, take care and good luck to you. May you have a Happy and Merry Christmas.
BobYuma
Posted by Neatfreak on December 22, 2003, at 10:40:33
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by BobYuma on December 22, 2003, at 10:26:12
11th day on Lexapro poor sleep returned along with the mood shift, slight headache, and slight diarrhea not sure any of this is due to Lexapro.
Posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 10:41:25
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by BobYuma on December 22, 2003, at 10:26:12
Hi Bob,
Yes! I did have the clenching. I think I was so disturbed by it because it was unexpected, as was the itchy neck! My p-doc said it couldn't have been related to the Lex cuz there was nothing he read that indicated this. I told him I've got pretty good anecdotal proof that it happens to many people! Until you asked, I hadn't noticed that it went away :-). I'm going to guess I haven't had it since about week 5 or 6. A lot of my s/e's disappeared at that time. I wonder if you took something to relax you and help you sleep if it would diminish the clenching and/or it wouldn't wake you up?I like reading your posts, thanks for being a part of this. Best wishes and peace to you!
~ Lynne
Posted by Kim B. on December 22, 2003, at 10:47:37
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 10:41:25
Hi Lynne and Bob,
I have only been on Lex for 1 week and I also have the clenching in my jaw. It is probably the worst s/e that I have right now besides the insomnia. Any ways to help that?
Thanks and Have a Merry ChristmasHi Bob,
> Yes! I did have the clenching. I think I was so disturbed by it because it was unexpected, as was the itchy neck! My p-doc said it couldn't have been related to the Lex cuz there was nothing he read that indicated this. I told him I've got pretty good anecdotal proof that it happens to many people! Until you asked, I hadn't noticed that it went away :-). I'm going to guess I haven't had it since about week 5 or 6. A lot of my s/e's disappeared at that time. I wonder if you took something to relax you and help you sleep if it would diminish the clenching and/or it wouldn't wake you up?
>
> I like reading your posts, thanks for being a part of this. Best wishes and peace to you!
> ~ Lynne
Posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 10:49:17
In reply to Lexapro?, posted by Neatfreak on December 22, 2003, at 10:40:33
Flu? Hope not for your sake :-)
Keep in mind, it make take a couple of months for your body to completely adjust. I had a crummy first week, then a great week (mood & s/e's), then week 3 some s/e's, etc., until everything seemed to dissipate by week 5 or 6 and I started feeling more balanced and in control. If you're a female, the s/e's could change as your cycle changes as well. My cycle is very dictatiorial!!
Hang in there . . . rest, drink plenty of fluids and all that, just in case!!
~ Lynne
Posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 10:55:14
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by Kim B. on December 22, 2003, at 10:47:37
Hi Kim - I just tried to become more cognizant of it and forced myself to relax when I caught myself doing it. But, I think it's involuntary for some reason and maybe it's something you just have to ride out. This sounds weird, but I would blow my cheeks out & expel my breath slowly to relax my jaws! Are you taking anything for the insomnia? Maybe that will help with the clenching if it happens at night. If not, melatonin worked great for me - 3mg at bed time and I was able to fall asleep. 3 more mg around 3am and I was able to sleep til 7am!
Hang in there, I'm pretty certain no one has reported the clenching past 2 months. Have a good holiday!
~ Lynne
Posted by Gator on December 22, 2003, at 15:14:10
In reply to Re: Thank goodness for Lexapro!, posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 10:03:53
Lynne,
Thanks for the hug! Here's one back to ya.
{{{{Lynne}}}}
Thanks again.
Gator
Posted by Neatfreak on December 22, 2003, at 16:02:04
In reply to Re: Lexapro?, posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 10:49:17
> Flu? Hope not for your sake :-)
>
> Keep in mind, it make take a couple of months for your body to completely adjust. I had a crummy first week, then a great week (mood & s/e's), then week 3 some s/e's, etc., until everything seemed to dissipate by week 5 or 6 and I started feeling more balanced and in control. If you're a female, the s/e's could change as your cycle changes as well. My cycle is very dictatiorial!!
>
> Hang in there . . . rest, drink plenty of fluids and all that, just in case!!
> ~ LynneNot a female but thanks for the history, perhaps I should not expect results this soon.
Thanks
Posted by BobYuma on December 22, 2003, at 16:09:58
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by LynneDa on December 22, 2003, at 10:41:25
> Hi Bob,
> Yes! I did have the clenching. I think I was so disturbed by it because it was unexpected, as was the itchy neck! My p-doc said it couldn't have been related to the Lex cuz there was nothing he read that indicated this. I told him I've got pretty good anecdotal proof that it happens to many people! Until you asked, I hadn't noticed that it went away :-). I'm going to guess I haven't had it since about week 5 or 6. A lot of my s/e's disappeared at that time. I wonder if you took something to relax you and help you sleep if it would diminish the clenching and/or it wouldn't wake you up?
I like reading your posts, thanks for being a part of this. Best wishes and peace to you!
> ~ Lynne>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hey, hey Lynne:
Thanks for the compliment [about reading my post]. I like reading yours too ... Mutual Admiration Society ... <wink>
About taking something before bedtime to help with relaxation and sleep: Yes Ma'am, I started taking a sleeping pill and one Lorazepam each night at bedtime. I guess they help me sleep, but they didn't keep me from waking up when I started clenching my jaws, nor did they keep me from doing it. But at least I can go back to sleep when I wake up in the night, I'm such a sleep hound. Anyway, I think I might try the Melatonin.
For anyone who's reading this and is having the same problem with "clenching": I'm still going to a massage therapist once a week, and she always works on the jaw. She can actually tell that they've "tightened" up, and she can massage the tension out. It's great, everyone should try a massage for tension and relaxation. I'm thinking about asking her to marry me, then I'd have my very own personal massage therapist right in my own home ... hmmm... wonder if she can cook too.Thanks as always for your intelligent input, Lynne. Have yourself a great week.
Bob
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