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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by LynneDa on January 29, 2004, at 16:38:47
In reply to Increasing Lex Tonight, posted by KathrynLex on January 29, 2004, at 11:01:03
Kathryn - Going to 20 mg did reduce my anxiety and depression during my "bad week" of the month. I feel certain it will get rid of your last bit of panic attacks too. Good luck, I know you'll keep us posted :-)
~ Lynne
Posted by KathrynLex on January 29, 2004, at 17:07:11
In reply to What about 10mg????, posted by sexylexy on January 29, 2004, at 16:08:39
Hi Lexy,
I'm a little disappointed at having to increase my dose to 20 mg, but my pdoc explained that everyone needs a different level of medication because we all respond to the meds so differently. I asked him if it's true that lexapro is most effective at lower doses and he said it really depends on the person. Keep this in mind if you get to the end of week 9 and still aren't feeling well. (But I'm hoping you'll start getting better VERY soon.)
I also talked to my pdoc about how long I would have to be on lex. Like you I would prefer to taper off of it at some point in the future. He said that the longer I stay on it, the less likely it is that the depression/anxiety will come back. I was told that with each recurrance of depression, your chances of becomming depressed again in the future are greatly increased. That's why it's better to stay on the meds for at least a year, to ensure that the depression/anxiety won't return. (Although, that does sound a little like a sales pitch for anti-depressants doesn't it?)
I think there are a lot of people on the board who have had success at 10 mg...sometimes lower. Maybe you're body has just been adjusting slowly. (Whew! Sorry for the long winded post.)Again, I really hope you start feeling better in the next few days.
K.
Posted by Linda P. on January 29, 2004, at 17:07:37
In reply to Please answer !! please please, posted by sexylexy on January 29, 2004, at 16:35:50
Hey Kathrynlex - No. Have been on Lexapro a year, and have lost 14 of the God-knows-how-many pounds I'd gained in three years on Paxil. Have a diminished craving for carbos, have much more energy, and I really feel like my old (changed) self. So relax, and enjoy. It's better than having squirrels playing tag in your head - right?
Linda P. (*:*)
Posted by Laree on January 29, 2004, at 17:18:16
In reply to WILL I GET FAT?, posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:42:01
I have a history of eating disorders. I have been on Lexapro a few diff. times & am currently on it. Saw no (visible, at least) weight gain related to the lex that i know of. My friend is on it with no weight gain, and a friend's little sister was on it and she was skinny, no weight gain. If u were on paxil or elavil etc., then gaining weight might be more of a concern, but lex is supposed to be more weight-neutral than many anti-depressants.
> Hey Ya'll
> I just read a post that said someone had gained 25 lbs from lexapro. One thing I like about myself is that I am small and work to stay that way. I could deal with 5 lbs but like 20 is out of the question. Have you all gained weight and if so does it come off with diet and excercise?????
> Loving my size 2
> Lexy
Posted by Jayslace on January 29, 2004, at 18:16:22
In reply to Please answer !! please please, posted by sexylexy on January 29, 2004, at 16:35:50
No weight gain here, and trust me I can't afford to gain it. I gained 60lbs on the Depakote I was on, and then the Effexor didn't help either. Once off both of those, I was put on Topamax for my epilepsy, one of the side effects being, weight loss. Down 31 lbs so far. But since on Lex, I haven't gained any weight. My appetite is still down as it has been.
Good luck with it everyone!
Ruthie
Posted by Mrs C. on January 29, 2004, at 18:48:03
In reply to What about 10mg????, posted by sexylexy on January 29, 2004, at 16:08:39
Hey, I know that you know that I am doing really well on 10 mgs. I am going on 4 months now at that dosage. So far so good. The only trouble I've had was around my time of the month. I felt very anxious and started to worry about all of my old worries again. It passed. I'm fine now. Hope some others can make you feel comfortable about staying with 10 mgs. I've told myself that if symptoms return I will wait at least a week to see if they subside before I call the doc. Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs C. on January 29, 2004, at 18:49:20
In reply to Kathrynlex, posted by sexylexy on January 29, 2004, at 16:10:41
I ditto Lexy! We'll all be here for you, good luck! Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs C. on January 29, 2004, at 18:52:10
In reply to Please answer !! please please, posted by sexylexy on January 29, 2004, at 16:35:50
Lexy, I did gain about 6 pounds. I do not believe that it was from the lex though. Just me eating too much around the Holidays. I've sinced lost it all and more. Hope you aren't too concerned about this because I really don't think it will be a factor for you. You've been small all of your life and probably will continue to be. Mrs.C
Posted by Simus on January 29, 2004, at 23:09:00
In reply to Re: dosages? » Mrs C., posted by LynneDa on January 29, 2004, at 10:42:39
>I think I just got tired of doing for everyone and forgot to look out for my own needs and so was at a deficit - I had nothing left in my emotional bank account when things got tough. I guess I'm now in the process of finding balance - not feeling guilty for not carrying the rest of the world on my shoulders!
You are helping me learn a lot about myself just by reading this board. Thanks.
Posted by Simus on January 29, 2004, at 23:24:42
In reply to Re: Brand New Lexapro User, posted by Linda P. on January 29, 2004, at 11:15:54
My psychiatrist wants to add another medication, and is aggravated with me for not saying 'yes.' I am reluctant to add another medication regimen until I get some answers!
I think this was a wise decision on your part. And it does sound like the physical symptoms could be caused by a "panic" reaction to the nausea.
Posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 9:04:28
In reply to Re: dosages? » LynneDa, posted by Simus on January 29, 2004, at 23:09:00
Simus - I'm glad my thoughts are ringing some bells with you too! My husband says I think too much and complicate matters more, but I really believe you have to dig through all the sludge to get to the bottom of what's really bothering you. Sometimes healing doesn't require that your situation change drastically - just having that "a-ha" moment of identifying what's making you feel uncomfortable and out of sorts can be a helpful experience. Good luck and glad you posted!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> You are helping me learn a lot about myself just by reading this board. Thanks.
>
Posted by Linda P. on January 30, 2004, at 10:39:22
In reply to Re: dosages? » Simus, posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 9:04:28
LynneDa - Been following the exchange between you and Simus. First of all, I think it's safe to say most husbands think we wives think too much. (*:*) Secondly, sometimes there is NO "ah-ha" moment. When I had my first anxiety episode, my life was almost 100% perfect: we were building our dream home, both newly retired, three wonderful kids and their spouses, and seven gorgeous grandchildren. I have searched and searched and searched my conscience, my soul, my life events - and there were NO un-healed memories, no loose ends. NOTHING was bothering me. And wham! I got hit with this anxiety/depression/nausea thing that lasted three weeks - this was a little over four years ago - lost thirty pounds, terrified to go anywhere, and my outlook was utterly bleak. In retrospect, (maybe my "ah-ha" moment), I suspect good old female hormones. I was 56 years old at the time - well into menopause (tried all kinds of HRT, but they were utterly useless - gave up. We tend to underestimate hormones - but they are pretty powerful, as most of us know.) All my medical tests came back normal-normal-normal at the time, and that's when I started on the psychiatric route. Began with a mix of Paxil and Depakote, dropped the Depakote after a year, and then made the switch to Lexapro a year ago. I think the tendency to get busy-busy with the needs of others (spouses, family)is a sort of defense mechanism to stave off the sense of oncoming foreboding and gloom that comes hand-in-hand with anxiety/depression. It's as if, "If I run fast enough, it won't catch me." But all in all, I am convinced that what is/was wrong with me was hormone-based - and whatever it is in Paxil and then Lexapro have restored me to me, for which I'm intensely grateful.And if I have to take it for the rest of my life, so be it. It beats the alternative! Linda P.
Posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 11:13:41
In reply to Re: dosages? » LynneDa, posted by Linda P. on January 30, 2004, at 10:39:22
Linda - I totally agree with you - for some there are no issues to be resolved at all; it's purely chemical! Also I agree with the thought that if I have to be on meds the rest of my life, it's fine and so much better than the alternative!
I know I have issues to work out in my life, but whether they caused my depression, exacerbated it or were exacerbated by it I'll never know and I guess it doesn't really matter. The main thing is that I forgot how to make myself happy and to occasionally put myself first - because I was so down in my pit. Taking Lex has given me back the ability to work out the issues that I do have control over and I am grateful for that!
I will be so glad to go through menopause, maybe this will ease up? Do you think being on Lexapro will help me get through that time more easily? Thanks for writing, I really appreciate your input!
~Lynne
Posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 11:18:14
In reply to Re: Whoa! Took double dose by accident!, posted by thib on January 28, 2004, at 21:22:13
Hi! I forgot to respond and say thanks! I have Outlook on my email. It has a calendar with a reminder system. I get meeting reminders all the time. So, I put a recurring message to remind me to take my pill. So far, it's worked!
Taking the 2 wasn't so bad - I did have a higher heart rate for awhile, was a bit nauseous, wired feeling but so sleepy I thought I'd have to ask my husband to drive me home. I certainly slept better that night than I ever had before!
Thanks for everyone's replies, it's nice to feel so taken care of!
~ Lynne
Posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 11:29:00
In reply to Re: dosages?, posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 17:03:39
Hi! I realized I didn't respond directly to your post. In your situation, it could be seen as a blessing that this happened to you at a younger age than me :-). The earlier you learn the realities of the world, the better able you are to cope, sad as it is. I'm still rebelling a bit that things aren't the way I want them and I know too much!
But, my guess is, at your age you will still have a large percentage of your old self intact, once you get through this episode. Based on the way I was in my 20s (much more flexible and adaptable), you will learn to integrate your new-found knowledge and experiences and become comfortable and love that new person just as much as the old! What a journey . . . I wish you the best!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>LynneDa
> I think you raise a good point. Part of this is "I want my old self back" , "When will I be myself again" maybe your right. For 24 years I thought the world was my oyster and I was the pearl. After this experience I feel like I got knocked on my tail, do you think we ever get over this or learn to deal, cope and move to be happy with our new selves. Interesting questions, I would love feedback.
Posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 11:30:57
In reply to Increasing Lex Tonight, posted by KathrynLex on January 29, 2004, at 11:01:03
So, how're you feeling today?
~ Lynne
Posted by Linda P. on January 30, 2004, at 12:44:51
In reply to Re: dosages? » Linda P., posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 11:13:41
LynneDa - Menopause is like medication - different people react differently. My mother seemed to go through menopause for 40 years! Mine was surgical in nature - had a cystic ovary removed, and I think that was the one that was working. Had my 1st hot flash in the recovery room! Oddly, I didn't have the mood swings my mother always seemed to have, but I had dozens of hot flashes every day and my sleep pattern became so disturbed, I rarely slept the night through. I did the HRT thing for three years - gained 30 lbs.! - still had hot flashes and insomnia, so that's when I gave up! Discovered that hot flash triggers, for me, were red meat, caffeine and sugar. I struggled along with the hot flash/insomnia deal for 9 years before I "fell apart" - and the interesting thing is that since I've been on an anti-depressant, the hot flashes have all but disappeared, and I sleep like a baby! And I still don't have any mood swings. Paxil killed my sex drive - Lexapro restored it - so everyone's happy. (*:*) (Feel I should apologize for going on so - I'm a writer by profession, so there are no such things as "short answers" from me.) (*:*) Hang in there - it's an interesting ride! Linda P.
Posted by KathrynLex on January 30, 2004, at 13:21:38
In reply to Re: Increasing Lex Tonight » KathrynLex, posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 11:30:57
Hi,
I really appreciate everyones feedback to my post about increasing my dose. Last night I took 15 mg. I was so nervous that I put my bottle of Lorazepam next to my bed with a glass of water. But, I slept pretty soundly. I'm a little out of it today but not depressed or anxious...and I'm in a good mood. I hope everyone else is having a good day!
K.
Posted by bluesfan on January 30, 2004, at 13:25:08
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
Here is a message I posted earlier on the main Psycho-Babble site.
http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040127/msgs/307226.html . Can you tell me if you think my symptoms sound like OCD, or if it is just anxiety? Do you think Lexapro is the answer? Thanks for any advice you can give me!
Posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 13:54:28
In reply to Re: dosages? » LynneDa, posted by Linda P. on January 30, 2004, at 12:44:51
Linda - Thank you, it is really wonderful to hear other women's experiences. I'm only 40, but both my Mom and Grandma were definitely premenopausal by 40 or 41 and pretty well done by 50. I'm hoping the Lexapro makes it an easier transition.
I don't mind the long posts, I have the roots of a writer in me (journalism degree, but recruiter by career!), so I understand!
~ Lynne
Posted by KathrynLex on January 30, 2004, at 14:09:49
In reply to Re: dosages?, posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 13:54:28
Hi,
For those of you who have increased from 10 mg to 20 mg, did you notice a significant improvement over how you felt at 10 mg?
K.
Posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 14:17:50
In reply to Question about Increasing, posted by KathrynLex on January 30, 2004, at 14:09:49
Kathryn - The only noticeable change at 20 mg was during the 10 days before my period and, yes, I would say that has been significant. I was fine during the other weeks of the month at 10mg.
This week, I have been slightly irritated, a little "wired but tired" and sleepy - but not weepy or angry (losing my temper)and able to stay on course much better at work than at 10mg. This is my 2nd "bad week" on 20 mg. It was a little better last month and a little more better this month :-).
Hang in there, it may take a few weeks to let you know if you did the right thing. We'll be here for you!!
~ Lynne
Posted by KatieT on January 30, 2004, at 16:02:32
In reply to Re: Hey Lex users, posted by tiredman on January 27, 2004, at 13:59:09
I found out that a friend of mine is also taking Lexapro. She said that she, too, is craving chocolate and is trying her best to give in only once in a while. My doctor told me that I may gain or lose weight by a few pounds, but after 3 days on the Lex, I have no appetite at, which in a way is a good thing. The bad thing is that I'm a diabetic and have to eat.
Posted by KathrynLex on January 30, 2004, at 16:15:15
In reply to Re: Hey Lex users, posted by KatieT on January 30, 2004, at 16:02:32
Hi Katie,
I found that my appetite came back at the beginning of the third week. I hope you're doing well on lex!
K.
Posted by COOP on January 30, 2004, at 16:18:49
In reply to Question about Increasing, posted by KathrynLex on January 30, 2004, at 14:09:49
Hi
I was on 10mg and needed to go to 20mg. Too many side effects after 2 days. I broke the pill in half and increased to 15mg for 2 weeks with less se. Than went to 20mg. I found a big positive difference. I am feeling pretty good now and regained most of my confidence.
Good luck
Joe
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