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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Jayslace on January 26, 2004, at 18:15:35
In reply to Re: Need info - pleeeaaassseee, posted by vandy on January 26, 2004, at 17:37:09
LOL Vandy, now you really have me laughing!"Shucks, Ruthie! 'T'warn't nothin'!" Just saying that fits right in with my supper. Beans and cornbread! LOL
Thanks for the smiles and laughs!
Ruthie
Posted by LynneDa on January 26, 2004, at 18:17:28
In reply to Re: Lexapro - Expectations [Shelly], posted by hazelc on January 26, 2004, at 18:01:49
Hi! I'm glad to hear Lex had such a positive impact on your mood and happiness level!
I've only been on Lex for 4 months (2 months at 10 mg & 2 months at 20 mg). My dx is PMDD & mild depression. It has helped the depression, anxiety, etc. I too have very vivid and sometimes bizarre dreams, have gained weight and am still pretty sleepy (drugged) feeling, altho my mental fog is finally lifting.
My sleep patterns are still not normal, though, and I wake frequently so I remember my dreams more easily. Maybe they've always been this bizarre (LOL)!
I lost some weight at the beginning due to nausea, but I gained that back plus 10! I guess now that I'm happier I eat normally (didn't eat much for years due to nervous energy)and I now cook more regularly for my family. Ergo - 10 lbs!
I think anything that messes with your chemicals, brain functioning, blood, etc., can affect your metabolism in some way. For some of us it's on the lose side and others like me it's been gain :-(!
So, you're certainly not alone!!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>I have been on Lexapro for over a year now. I started on 10 mg and still was having anxiety and panic attacks due to a loved ones death so my doctor increased it to 20 mg. Anyways since I have been on the medication I have gained 20 pounds and am having bizarre dreams and am very tired. Anyone else experiencing these side effects? The good news it has really helped with my depression and grief. I am smiling again and enjoying life. Any help or info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
>
Posted by Danab on January 26, 2004, at 19:39:19
In reply to Hey Lex users, posted by sexylexy on January 26, 2004, at 17:56:34
Hi everyone,
Just wanted to update all the people here who are questioning side effects. I posted here the first night I took Lexapro and was totally freaked out by everyone's side effects. It's been two weeks and the only major side effect I've had is horrible insommnia. This has always been a problem for me, but I've taken Ambien for the last 8 months or so, which helped. But since taking the Lexapro the Ambien is TOTALLY ineffective. I gave up on the Ambien for now and am now taking just Benedryl, which has helped a little. I felt a little queasy for a few days, but that seems to have passed. My period is late, which is very unusual, so that is probably related to the Lexapro as well. I have a question I'm hoping someone knows the answer to.... I've read about the weight gain and what I'm wondering is, is it caused from an increased appetite or an actual metabolic change? I am very, very concerned about this....if it actually causes a metabolic change than I will not continue taking this med. In the last 4 years I have lost a huge amount of weight (still have some to go) and do not want to risk it. Any one know the actual clinical info on this? Thanks to everyone who posts and encourages the people here. You are all so very generous of your spirit and heart.
Dana in New Orleans
Posted by Journeyman on January 26, 2004, at 20:18:11
In reply to Re: Need info - pleeeaaassseee » LynneDa, posted by Jayslace on January 26, 2004, at 15:31:55
Ruthie:
It was a delight to read your post today. What a difference from just three weeks or so ago! We're all happy for you, and this gift could not have gone to a more deserving recipient.
I'm so pleased for you and your family.
To your health,
Journeyman
Posted by Anjul on January 26, 2004, at 20:25:16
In reply to Re: Hey Lex users, posted by Danab on January 26, 2004, at 19:39:19
Dana,
I had REALLY bad insomnia on 10 mg. Now I alternate between 7.5 and 10 mg every other day. It has helped alot. I also take 1/4 of a klonopin at night . I've lost 10 lbs and have been on since October. Good luck!Anjul
Posted by Journeyman on January 26, 2004, at 20:28:39
In reply to Re: Has no one experienced this? » Journeyman, posted by LynneDa on January 26, 2004, at 15:19:33
Lynne:
A turn of phrase is good, but a change of heart is much better. Thanks from all of us for the uplifting words, empathetic thoughts, and personal experiences you share; these acts of kindness change people's lives.
On Electric Conversions...this sounds very encouraging. Probably some kind of chemical reaction that jumpstarted a favorable chain reaction. Congratulations...and wear rubber-soled shoes.Journeyman
Posted by Journeyman on January 26, 2004, at 20:44:07
In reply to Re: Has no one experienced this?, posted by Mrs C. on January 24, 2004, at 22:36:12
Dear Mrs. C:
We just wanted to set the record straight. 'Journeyman' is the collective name for our Chimpanzee Keyboarding Cooperative. There are 47 of us, all pounding away randomly at keyboards. When our combined efforts create a message that is deemed relatively comprehensible, we send it out and sign it with that particular pseudonym.
It's not as difficult as it sounds. Once we got our first book out of the way (the dictionary that's linked to this site) replying to a few e-mails was a breeze.
You've probably already figured this out, but the reason most of our posts are late at night (this one being an exception, is that with all the bananas we consume, our glycemic levels are jacked up through the tree canopy. Hence, the burning of the midnight banana oil.
We'd like to add that we all enjoy your posts. You're a wonderful presence on this site.
Keep on swinging. (A popular chimp greeting, like 'aloha.' It's not what you think!).
See you on the board.
'Journeyman'
Posted by MoodyDee on January 26, 2004, at 21:25:34
In reply to Re: Need info - pleeeaaassseee, posted by KathrynLex on January 26, 2004, at 15:44:39
Hi, I've only posted once before. Reading about your experiences has helped alot.
I've been taking Lex 10mg for four months. My prescription had run out last Wednesday so instead of getting it refilled, I tried an all natural supplement thinking that I would easily transition from the Lexapro (since I was feeling so much better) in hopes of eliminating the negative side effects. What a mistake! I've been dizzy, light-headed, irritable and weepy for the last three days. It's scary to think that my well-being is now so closely tied to a drug. On the other hand, I am now convinced that Lexapro works. I got my prescription refilled today. I'm sure it will be a few days before I start to feel better.
Has anyone else had a similar experience?
Posted by Jayslace on January 26, 2004, at 21:44:04
In reply to Re: Need info - pleeeaaassseee, posted by MoodyDee on January 26, 2004, at 21:25:34
Greetings MoodyDee,
Your feelings you're having very well could be withdrawls from not taking the Lex. I haven't done that with Lex, only with another similar drug. Just a big mistake as you found out.
Good for you for going back on Lex. I'm glad it's working for you!!!
I used to have the last name Moody. But I was never moody . LOL
Have a great night Ruthie
Posted by Jayslace on January 26, 2004, at 21:52:39
In reply to World Cleaning Championships - Sponsored by Lex » Jayslace, posted by Journeyman on January 26, 2004, at 20:18:11
Thank you very much, Journeyman!I copied this and sent it to my husband in Canada and he loved it! LOL
However, I didn't send him anything about chimpanzees, bananas, etc.
Should I? hmmm... ;-)
Heading for bed, and probably for those wacky , bizarre dreams, but, hey, at least all my laundry is done, house is clean and kids are in bed safe and sound.
Loving this board!! And all of you!!
Ruthie
Posted by simus on January 26, 2004, at 21:57:27
In reply to Re: Ladies on lex. please respond! FEELING HORRIBLE, posted by lepus on January 26, 2004, at 13:13:23
> It is just strange what is happening with my period.
I have been on Lexapro for 8 weeks now, and I haven't had a normal period in that time. I have had a continuous light flow, instead of the previous very heavy monthly period. It appears that Lexapro does mess with the hormones.
Posted by simus on January 26, 2004, at 22:19:30
In reply to Hi C » Mrs C., posted by Journeyman on January 26, 2004, at 20:44:07
> Dear Mrs. C:
>
> We just wanted to set the record straight. 'Journeyman' is the collective name for our Chimpanzee Keyboarding Cooperative. There are 47 of us, all pounding away randomly at keyboards. When our combined efforts create a message that is deemed relatively comprehensible, we send it out and sign it with that particular pseudonym.
>
> It's not as difficult as it sounds. Once we got our first book out of the way (the dictionary that's linked to this site) replying to a few e-mails was a breeze.
>
> You've probably already figured this out, but the reason most of our posts are late at night (this one being an exception, is that with all the bananas we consume, our glycemic levels are jacked up through the tree canopy. Hence, the burning of the midnight banana oil.
>
> We'd like to add that we all enjoy your posts. You're a wonderful presence on this site.
>
> Keep on swinging. (A popular chimp greeting, like 'aloha.' It's not what you think!).
>
> See you on the board.
>
> 'Journeyman'ROTFL! Thanks for the laughs Journeyman.
Posted by MoodyDee on January 26, 2004, at 22:35:47
In reply to Re: Need info - pleeeaaassseee » MoodyDee, posted by Jayslace on January 26, 2004, at 21:44:04
Thanks for your encouragement Ruthie.
P.S Moody describes how I used to feel most days!
Good night.
Posted by SandiT on January 27, 2004, at 7:21:05
In reply to Re: Lexapro update, posted by guyndenver on August 1, 2003, at 19:04:19
Hi, I am new to the site, and I have read that some of you had the same symtoms I am haveing. I was on Lexapro 10mg a day for about 6 months, because of Panic attacks/anxiety, they really helped, but I feel like my old self again and have gained weight so I decided to get off them. I went from 10mg, to 5mg for 2 weeks, then 2.5mg for a week. I took my last lex on Wed, and Thursday, I felt Dizzy and swooshy feeling, kinda like jet lag, or comming off an elavator, and feel irratable too, at first I thought it was Sinuses, but started reading and it sounds like Lexapro withdrawals. Today is Tuesday and Im still feeling it, Does anyone know how long this will last? Or what I can do to make it go away quicker? Thanks SandiT
Posted by hanging on on January 27, 2004, at 7:40:58
In reply to Lexapro Withdrawal Swooshy feeling, posted by SandiT on January 27, 2004, at 7:21:05
hi, well I was on effexor and did a similar ramp down to get off of it. Had very similar feelings as I was stopping. Didn't last too long after I finally stopped, but it did go away. I imagine it is the same for lexapro. After a year off of everything, I am back but now on lexapro. good luck!
Posted by hanging on on January 27, 2004, at 7:51:01
In reply to How long before upping the dose?, posted by bluesfan on January 26, 2004, at 11:25:57
I would be very interested to hear some info on this too... I only been on lex 10mg for about 3weeks. Over the side effects, but waiting to feel better. Hoping I don't have to increase dose, but wondering when to make that call... Feel maybe a little better, but still depressed and the mornings still are tough... please post if you get some info... hang in there!
Posted by KathrynLex on January 27, 2004, at 11:08:23
In reply to Kathrynlex, posted by sexylexy on January 26, 2004, at 18:10:08
Hi Lexy,
I'm so glad you wrote. I'm at day 39 and not feeling up to 100% either. The side effects are gone (mostly gone - although I had a rough night last night). My anxiety and a large chunk of my depression has disappeared for the most part, but I'm not *happy.* I have an appointment with my pdoc on Thursday morning, I wonder if he'll suggest upping my dose to 20 mg?
It's nice to be feeling a bit better, but I'm getting a little frustrated just feeling kinda sorta okay. I'm wondering what it will take to get back to my old self, I miss her.
K.
Posted by KathrynLex on January 27, 2004, at 11:15:29
In reply to Re: How long before upping the dose?, posted by hanging on on January 27, 2004, at 7:51:01
I've been on 10 mg for 39 days and I'm thinking I need to increase my dose. I'll discuss it with my pdoc this Thursday. My depression and anxiety have subsided quite a bit, but I still don't feel well.
Hanging On, I would give it 6 weeks before you increase. The manufacturers website (www.lexapro.com) says it can take 4-6 weeks before lex is effective. If you still aren't feeling better, talk to your pdoc. That's what I'm going to do.
K.
Posted by KathrynLex on January 27, 2004, at 11:21:23
In reply to Re: How long before upping the dose?, posted by hanging on on January 27, 2004, at 7:51:01
Hi,
Last night was one of the worst nights I've had since starting lex. Night sweats returned, felt anxious and ready to jump out of my skin, my mind was going 500 different directions, I was slightly disoriented...should this be happening after 39 days on 10 mg lex?
I do NOT want to have a night like that again. I'm wondering if anyone else has encountered similar problems after almost 6 weeks on lex? Thanks!
K.
Posted by bluesfan on January 27, 2004, at 11:26:27
In reply to Had a Rough Night, posted by KathrynLex on January 27, 2004, at 11:21:23
I'm not feeling well either and I've been on 10mg of Lexapro for 41 days now. I've been having night sweats for the past week or so, and my mind has been racing like it was in the beginning on Lex. I guess it could just be an extension of the week 5 blues.
> Hi,
>
> Last night was one of the worst nights I've had since starting lex. Night sweats returned, felt anxious and ready to jump out of my skin, my mind was going 500 different directions, I was slightly disoriented...should this be happening after 39 days on 10 mg lex?
>
> I do NOT want to have a night like that again. I'm wondering if anyone else has encountered similar problems after almost 6 weeks on lex? Thanks!
>
> K.
Posted by Bali on January 27, 2004, at 12:12:08
In reply to Had a Rough Night, posted by KathrynLex on January 27, 2004, at 11:21:23
K.--
Did you eat as usual yesterday? Sometimes with the Lex when my food/calorie intake is low for that day I have some anxiety and that "racing" feeling. ~~Bali
Posted by Bali on January 27, 2004, at 12:26:41
In reply to Had a Rough Night, posted by KathrynLex on January 27, 2004, at 11:21:23
Dear Bluesfan, Hanging on, and Kathrynlex,
Please know that I am not trying to dismiss the discomfort you are feeling by saying things like "did you eat, or have you been drinking alcohol regularly?" I am only saying that I have learned that for me, these behaviors/actions trigger some unwanted side effects and responses in my body. As I mentioned in two prior posts, I was having wine every night until I eventually came to the realization that the wine might be confounding the efficacy of the Lex. Then when I was having the nasty sweating I began drinking more water, just to see if that would help. I am now drinking a gallon (yes! a whole gallon) of water a day and the sweating is virtually gone. (Of course the peeing has quadrupled~~HA!) I'm glad I feel comfortable enough with this group to share!!! Thank you all so much for all you do for me. Major and abundant hugs!!!! {{{{{{{{{{{{{{EVERYONE}}}}}}}}}}}}}
Posted by KatieT on January 27, 2004, at 12:47:44
In reply to Re: Had a Rough Night, posted by Bali on January 27, 2004, at 12:12:08
> I just went to a pdoc for the first time today and he prescribed Lexapro. The prescription is being filled at the moment, but after reading all these stories, I have to say I am scared to take it. One of my major complaints, besides depression, is an inability to sleep at night. This has been a problem for years. Now I've been reading that Lexapro can cause insomnia...UGGGH! My doctor gave me a prescription for Xanax as well so I'm hoping that will counteract the insomnia. I'll keep reading this post and will let you all know how I am doing. I'm glad I finally got to the doctor for medication because I'm ready to jump out of my skin with anxiety and depression. I am a 39 year old woman and have had diabetes for 29 years so I'm beginning to realize, with the help of psycologist, that a lot of my problems stem from the diabetes. I just want to feel better and have to hang to the belief that happiness is out there for me. I am so thankful for cyber sites such as this one. I, too, am a "Kathryn" but decided to use a nickname since there is another Kathryn on this site.
Posted by bluesfan on January 27, 2004, at 12:59:59
In reply to Brand New Lexapro User, posted by KatieT on January 27, 2004, at 12:47:44
Welcome to the board! The great thing about Lexapro for a lot of people is the side effects tend to go away fairly quickly. I found that sleep was a problem for the first week or so, but now I sleep 8 or so hours a night without waking up. I took Xanax for the first 3 days or so to counteract the added anxiety/insomnia and it worked great. I've been taking Lexapro for 41 days now and it has helped. I know I'm not as well as I would like to be yet, but I hope to eventually get there. Hang in there, and keep checking back to this board. The people here help a lot and have great advice!
> > I just went to a pdoc for the first time today and he prescribed Lexapro. The prescription is being filled at the moment, but after reading all these stories, I have to say I am scared to take it. One of my major complaints, besides depression, is an inability to sleep at night. This has been a problem for years. Now I've been reading that Lexapro can cause insomnia...UGGGH! My doctor gave me a prescription for Xanax as well so I'm hoping that will counteract the insomnia. I'll keep reading this post and will let you all know how I am doing. I'm glad I finally got to the doctor for medication because I'm ready to jump out of my skin with anxiety and depression. I am a 39 year old woman and have had diabetes for 29 years so I'm beginning to realize, with the help of psycologist, that a lot of my problems stem from the diabetes. I just want to feel better and have to hang to the belief that happiness is out there for me. I am so thankful for cyber sites such as this one. I, too, am a "Kathryn" but decided to use a nickname since there is another Kathryn on this site.
>
Posted by KathrynLex on January 27, 2004, at 13:14:22
In reply to Brand New Lexapro User, posted by KatieT on January 27, 2004, at 12:47:44
Hi KatieT,
I can understand why you're hesitant to take lexapro, it's a difficult step to take. The side effects can be uncomfortable, but they're tolerable. Keep in mind that some people don't experience any side effects at all, and you might be one of those people.
Xanax is wonderful for insomnia. I don't think you'll have any problems sleeping after you take it.
Lexapro has been wonderful for me in terms of anxiety and depression. There are still a few bumps after 39 days on 10 mg lexapro...but not nearly as many as there were before I took it.
Also, if you're very sensitive to meds or are terribly worried about encountering side effects, you might consider starting at a very low dose. Some people start at 2.5 mg for 2 weeks, then increase to 5 mg for 2 weeks and then increase to 10 mg. Sometimes this can help your body to adjust to the new medication.
I hope lexapro helps with your anxiety and depression. Please keep us posted on how you're doing.
K.
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