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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by modeljenn on February 27, 2004, at 10:54:23
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
Hi,
My doctor just gave me these samples of Lexapro 10mg and I'm on the 3rd day of taking them. I've noticed that I'm a little nauseaous and I keep yawning all day. I feel a little dizzy and I keep waking up at night with tons of thoughts going on in my head and then having anxiety attacks.
I've been depressed as long as I can remember and it's been getting worse lately. I sit around the house all day and do nothing, I don't feel motivated at all. I'm also having a hard time with my marriage right now (I feel as I don't love my husband and I've fallen in love with this guy at work but it won't work cause I'm 21 and he's 17 and I don't want to hurt anyone).
I just want to get past all this and be happy. My mom told me that taking antidepressants is bad and when I go off of them I will be real sick and start hallucinating. I was wondering if that's true? What should I do?Jenn =)
Posted by LynneDa on February 27, 2004, at 10:59:50
In reply to Re: 1st week on Lex, posted by marfaith on February 27, 2004, at 10:13:06
Hi Mary -
Just wanted to chime in here on your concerns in general. I've been on Lex about 4 months - 2 at 10 mg and now 2 at 20 mg. The improvements are a gradual thing. It may be good to keep a brief journal of your days so you can chart the changes over time. I used to grade myself daily on crying, anxiety attacks and irrational angry outbursts!Please hang in there and look for the little improvements each day. One thing to remember: depression changes you, just as all major life events do, and you may never be the same "normal" as you were in the past. Depression took off my rose-colored glasses for good & I'm still mourning that loss & trying to figure out who this new person is. But there are other positives that I've gained, I just had to look for them to realize it!
I hope this doesn't sound too preachy, because I don't know your history, but I do know how it feels at the beginning of the Lex journey! You will feel much better in just a few weeks, I can guarantee you that. You may even have moments where you forget that you were ever depressed or anxious :-).
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
If the Zanax works for you -- great! I tried Zanax but it made me so sleepy I couldn't function. I mean I took a half a pill and slept for 17 hours straight. I know it affects different people different ways. The Clonazepam seems to have less side effects for me. Helps me sleep and reduces the anxiety without the extreme need to sleep for hours and hours on end. Just remember that you're on your way to health and you always have an outlet here.
> > Have a great day. //Theresa
>
> Theresa,
>
> I don't have that problem with Xanax. It does help me sleep, but I don't have that hang over feeling. I get that if I take Ativan. It sure does help when I need it. The other day I was really edgy. I felt like I was on the verge of tears, irritated, and just low. I feel like I have gotten a little better and hoping I will continue to go up from here. I just want to feel normal.
>
> Mary
Posted by LynneDa on February 27, 2004, at 11:17:32
In reply to Hi everyone =), posted by modeljenn on February 27, 2004, at 10:54:23
Hi Jenn ~
I'm glad you found this website, it is full of very supportive and helpful folks! You've taken the first step in taking care of yourself and changing your life by talking to your doctor and starting meds.Your side effects are very normal and will probably start subsiding in one to three weeks. I noticed an improvement in my depression the first week! I had the yawning thing really bad at first!! When you stop taking ADs, you have to wean off gradually or you will have very uncomfortable side effects. My doctor told me that if I agreed to start taking meds, I needed to commit myself to a 6 - 18 month period. Jenn, don't ever stop them cold turkey!!
There are lots of myths and rumors about antidepressants. Everyone reacts to them differently and the more sensational situations get the most press. Rarely, in those articles or TV shows, do you get to hear the person's whole mental health history, so you really don't know what other factors were involved.
In reading many, many posts here, ADs seem to be safe & very effective in allowing people to become less depressed and giving them their life back. I know it has worked for me.
Maybe you should look up some info on the web to educate your Mom and take away some of her fears. I'm sure she wants the best for you and doesn't want you to get hurt.
As for your other issues, now is not the time to make big life decisions! Wait til you feel less depressed and more stable. Things will become more clear to you as the weeks go by and the medication takes effect.
Good luck, hang in there and let us know how you're doing!!! You are not alone in this, believe me!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Hi,
> My doctor just gave me these samples of Lexapro 10mg and I'm on the 3rd day of taking them. I've noticed that I'm a little nauseaous and I keep yawning all day. I feel a little dizzy and I keep waking up at night with tons of thoughts going on in my head and then having anxiety attacks.
> I've been depressed as long as I can remember and it's been getting worse lately. I sit around the house all day and do nothing, I don't feel motivated at all. I'm also having a hard time with my marriage right now (I feel as I don't love my husband and I've fallen in love with this guy at work but it won't work cause I'm 21 and he's 17 and I don't want to hurt anyone).
> I just want to get past all this and be happy. My mom told me that taking antidepressants is bad and when I go off of them I will be real sick and start hallucinating. I was wondering if that's true? What should I do?
>
> Jenn =)
Posted by mystic on February 27, 2004, at 11:51:01
In reply to Hi everyone =), posted by modeljenn on February 27, 2004, at 10:54:23
Hey Jenn...You will not be sick when you go off meds as long as you listen to your Dr and go off it gradually...You have to be patient which when you are depressed everything seems to take forever and you never ever think it is going to end..But that is what depression makes you think that "you will never get better"...But you can get better...You just have to be patient and listen to you Dr..I wish you luck and take good care of yourself...Mystic
Posted by KathrynLex on February 27, 2004, at 13:25:32
In reply to Hi everyone =), posted by modeljenn on February 27, 2004, at 10:54:23
Hi Jenn,
Being nautious, racing thoughts, yawning, dizziness and anxiety attacks are all common when starting on Lexapro. The good news is that it all goes away...the bad news is that you have to put up with it for a little while.
To help with your upset stomach, eat mild foods (breat, pasta, soup) and oddly enough drinking Coke sometimes helps with that. The racing thoughts and yawning are uncomfortable, but there isn't a lot that you can do to stop them.
For the anxiety attacks, ask your pdoc (psychiatrist) about benzos such as Klonopin, Xanax and Lorazepam. All of them will help you calm down before, during or after an anxiety attack. (Note: sometimes these meds that I mentioned are addictive, but if they are used as directed you're in very little danger of having problems with them.)
Please keep us posted on your progress. I hope you start seeing positive results soon.
K.
Posted by shadows721 on February 27, 2004, at 13:36:19
In reply to Re: lex and a female question (more complaints), posted by Cathrina on February 27, 2004, at 10:32:58
I agree with you this Lexapro will not have a permanent place in my cabinet. I can't wait for a drug with out this side effect and the blow me up with weight as well. I have tried everything to help with this awful side effect. Yep, I am calmer and I am not as rageful with this med. But, my Gosh, this stuff takes away any type of fantasy as well with me. I could watch a movie with sex and think those are just people acting stupid. Movies do nothing for me. There is NOTHING to help me physically attain an orgasm without an additional medication. This med has the worst sexual side effect from any medication that I have ever tried. Vibrators do nothing for me. I do mean nothing. It feels almost like I am sexually numb. This stuff turned off a switch in my brain when in regard to sexual stimulation. I wonder how many men and women suffer like I, but are too darn embarrassed to admit it. Hmmm I know someone is agreeing with me out there in the internet space. I had a normal sex life before Lexapro.
Posted by LynneDa on February 27, 2004, at 13:47:40
In reply to Re: sex complaints, posted by shadows721 on February 27, 2004, at 13:36:19
Hi Shadows - YES, I do agree with you & have the same issue!
The creative, kinky stuff doesn't work for me either. I'm 40, newly married for the 2nd time, have always had an above average drive, so is that an important part of my relationship & personal well-being - you bet! But, on the other hand I'm just SO glad not to be angry, sad and anxious, I am not as upset by it.
On an encouraging note, after 4 months on Lex, I am able to get there maybe once every 4 or 5 times as long as my husband holds back for as long as I need him to. I do enjoy the actual act more, now that I don't always have orgasm as a goal.
Additionally, many people on this board say Wellbutrin helps. It sounds like you are not wanting to add a med. I don't either. But, if it doesn't improve in a bit more time, I may get to that point. So far, my doc doesn't want to give it to me.
Hang in there!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Posted by mystic on February 27, 2004, at 18:00:34
In reply to Re: Hi everyone =), posted by mystic on February 27, 2004, at 11:51:01
Well been positive on this Lexapro but I'm telling you I feel horrible tonight very depressed and anxious and just dont feel right..I have had such ups and downs this past 3 weeks that Im not sure what is going on and very distressed...I'm feeling like if this is all there is then how can it all be worth it..but I will struggle on and hope that someday the good days will last longer than just a couple at a time..>Thanks for listening sorry to be such a downer....Mystic
Posted by mrs c on February 27, 2004, at 21:24:29
In reply to Re: Hey Ya'll Lexaproers, posted by mystic on February 27, 2004, at 8:52:29
Hi Mystic, just wanted to let you know that I was thinking of you and proud of you that you were able to make it alone to the dr. Baby steps, my friend. Maybe it would help to think of all of us and then you won't feel so alone when you are in those anxiety provoking situations. Just a thought. Mrs. C
Posted by mrs c on February 27, 2004, at 21:30:56
In reply to Re: Hey Ya'll Lexaproers » sexylexy, posted by LynneDa on February 27, 2004, at 10:32:24
Hey Lynne, Hopefully the warmer weather will make us all feel better. I live in Western NY and it's supposed to be 50 degress here on Monday! Tropical! I feel really terrible that you are having such difficulty sleeping. Have you tried Tylenol PM. It always works for me when I am having trouble sleeping. I'm sure the stress you are feeling is not helping either. The stress keeps you awake, so your tired, which makes the stress worse! Been there! It will pass. You will make it through this with your terrific outlook and positive attitude. Mrs. C
Posted by mrs c on February 27, 2004, at 21:37:36
In reply to Re: lex and a female question (more complaints), posted by Cathrina on February 27, 2004, at 10:32:58
Catrina, what a wonderful attitude! I am positive that you will overcome any difficulties you are having. I agree with your revelation that Lexapro has increased your feelings for your partner which makes sex even more intimate.From what I have heard, orgasm does return, so keep trying! I haven't had that side effect so I can't say from experience. My desire has never really been high. It's average. My husband is on Zoloft and his is even worse than mine. What a pair we are! We are so much more affectionate towards eachother and our relationship has moved to a deeper level but sex is not one of our top priorities these days. Good luck to you. Mrs. C
Posted by mrs c on February 27, 2004, at 21:48:22
In reply to Hi everyone =), posted by modeljenn on February 27, 2004, at 10:54:23
Hi Jen, first of all welcome to the board. Secondly, you are doing the right thing by being proactive in your treatment of your depression. The feelings that you have described have been felt by almost everyone of us on this board! During the first few weeks you will feel tired, lethargic, anxious, you may have headaches and feel nauseous. These are all side effects of Lexapro and they will subside. Shortly you will begin to see your life in a different light. You may begin to realize how important your relationship with your husband is and that you have been living in a fog. Things will seem clearer. All of these things and more can happen with Lexapro. Anti depressants are not bad. They are forms of necessary treatment for some of us. Depression is an illness and should be treated as such. It does not make you crazy to want to feel better and to get help doing it. People who do not suffer from a mental illness sometimes have a hard time understanding those that do. They think that we have control over what's going on inside of our brains. We don't. It's chemical. Perhaps you could give your mother some information on depression and lexapro and maybe she would feel better about what's going on with you. Please don't do anything you will regret with this guy at work. You are in a committed relationship that you chose to be in. Don't let depression blur your reasons for marrying your husband. Having an affair will only confuse your situation more. Give yourself a couple of months to feel better and see where it takes you. Let us know how you are doing. Mrs. C
Posted by mrs c on February 27, 2004, at 21:54:11
In reply to Re: Hi everyone =), posted by mystic on February 27, 2004, at 18:00:34
Mystic, we have all been where you are now. Hang in there and I promise it gets better. Don't worry about always having to be positive. We are not going to judge you in any way. All of us have our ups and downs and come to this board for support of our issues! We're here for you no matter what! Mrs. C
Posted by KathrynLex on February 28, 2004, at 14:46:13
In reply to Re: Hi everyone =), posted by mrs c on February 27, 2004, at 21:54:11
It's been almost a month since my last panic attack, but I had one last night. I realize that it is only a minor setback...but it would be nice if panic attacks weren't something I needed to worry about anymore.
It was only a minor attack...cured with .25 mgs of Xanax. Maybe it was brought on by my period...Lex seems to be less effective around my time of the month. But it was horrible to revisit the irrational thinking, pounding heart and feelings of unreality that accompany a panic attack. I'll call my pdoc about it on Monday.
I'm disappointed, but I realize it doesn't mean I'm not getting better.
K.
Posted by mystic on February 28, 2004, at 15:18:46
In reply to A Frustrating Setback, posted by KathrynLex on February 28, 2004, at 14:46:13
Wow that is weird that you would say that you have a worst time at that time of the month I have been on Lexapro 10mgs for 3 weeks and this is my first period and I'm having an axiety attack as we speak...I feel all wigged out..this just doesnt seem worth it to me anymore..But maybe it is because it is that time of the month..Will stick in there and see what happens..Think I will take a xanax and try to chill...take care ...Mystic
Posted by AntiTrust on February 28, 2004, at 15:30:17
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
I had been on the max dose of celexa for 3 years-recently pdoc changed me to the minimum dose of lexapro-depression is gone for now-husband sees a difference in my attitude but in the bedroom-it is still a joke trying to reach an orgasm. could be my age? don't know-isnt my patner he is DA MAN :) giggle :)
Posted by Dr. Bob on February 28, 2004, at 16:01:29
In reply to Hey Ya'll Lexaproers, posted by sexylexy on February 27, 2004, at 8:48:10
Posted by mrs c on February 27, 2004, at 21:21:48
Hi Lexy, good to hear your friendly note! I am feeling good. I still plan to increase my dosage but overall I am doing well. It's just those darn pesky feelings of dread creeping back daily that have got me worried. I'm still much better than I used to be so I am thankful everyday for that. And now I have all of you which makes all the difference! Thanks! How was your trip home? I remember when I lived out of state and how much I loved to go home again! What a great feeling. Now I permantly live back in my hometown again and love it! I wish the best for you. I know that you are doing the right thing by finishing your masters. It's only temporary and soon you will be back in the loving arms of home. Talk to ya soon. Mrs. C
Posted by mystic on February 28, 2004, at 16:27:36
In reply to Re: Hey Ya'll Lexaproers « mrs c, posted by Dr. Bob on February 28, 2004, at 16:01:29
Mrs C...You are such a help to everyone with your kind words...Im with you on the bad feelings...Just when you think that this is going to help it gets you again..Just having a bad day that is all....Thought I was getting better and now not sure...My daughter is having a baby in May and I worry about letting her down so much...I have planned the baby shower and now I'm anxious that I will not be well enough to take care of it...Or be able to take care of her when the time comes for the baby to come...So just want to get better that is all....Thanks for listening...Mystic
Posted by KathrynLex on February 28, 2004, at 17:02:03
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by mystic on February 28, 2004, at 15:18:46
Hi Mystic,
I've talked to other people on this sight who have had similar problems with Lexapro around their time of the month. I hope you're feeling better...Xanax did the trick for me last night, I hope it works for you.
K.
Posted by mystic on February 28, 2004, at 17:07:46
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by KathrynLex on February 28, 2004, at 17:02:03
Thank you K....I really appreciate the feedback...I did not take the xanax as meds are my phobia to begin with...My husband and Dr get very irritated with me because they say it will help...At the time that I'm not feeling well I have thoughts that I want to end it all and I do not have a plan as of yet but it is just an overwelming feeling..At that point i'm afraid that the xanax will make me feel even more depressed...I know it is weird and I have taken the xanax before and know it isnt going to harm me...But at this point I just feel like I'm going to lose my mind and not come back...But going to watch some tv and see how I feel later...Thank you soooooo much for responding to me...Mystic
Posted by BobYuma on February 28, 2004, at 17:47:09
In reply to A Frustrating Setback, posted by KathrynLex on February 28, 2004, at 14:46:13
Posted by KathrynLex:
It's been almost a month since my last panic attack, but I had one last night. I realize that it is only a minor setback...but it would be nice if panic attacks weren't something I needed to worry about anymore. It was only a minor attack...cured with .25 mgs of Xanax ....
------------------------------------------------
Hello, Kathryn.
Very strange ... I can't remember the last panic attack I had .. until last night. Coincidence? I suppose so. I checked to see if the moon was full, but it wasn't (Laugh).I've been on Lexapro since Dec. 4. I think that's around 12 weeks. It's probably been at least 8 weeks since my last panic attack. Wow. I've been trying to piece together the details of yesterday to try and figure out what brought it on. The only thing I can come up with is that I was totally exhausted when I finally made it to bed last night, and about 10 minutes after I lay down is when the attack hit. Just as you said, it was a rather minor attack, it's just the fact that I had one that bothers me most.
Have you ever noticed that you are more anxious or easier to have the panic attacks if you are extremely tired?
The only other thing is that I lowered my dosage from 10 mg's to 7.5, but it's been several weeks since I did that.They say that you should try to find something good in everything that happens. So I guess if I absolutely had to find something good about that panic attack, it's the fact that it was more of a nuisance that anything else. This time even the fear of the attack took a back seat to the nuisance. I realized this after it was all over with, does that mean we actually get use to panic attacks? (ya gotta laugh)
I hope the best for you, Kathryn. God Bless.
BobYuma
Posted by Twuffy on February 28, 2004, at 23:04:19
In reply to Re: lex and a female question, posted by sexylexy on February 22, 2004, at 18:48:43
I have been getting a lot of cramping throughout the month. I keep thinking it must be coming. This cannot be good. Why is this drug affecting our sexual organs?? And I don't feel much better. If at all. Its been a few months.
Posted by Rainspirit on February 28, 2004, at 23:07:42
In reply to Re: Hi everyone =), posted by mystic on February 27, 2004, at 18:02:04
Posted by Bubbasmom on February 28, 2004, at 23:09:05
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by mystic on February 28, 2004, at 17:07:46
Hi Mystic-
I'm sorry that you are having such a rough time today but please remember that it it just today. When you wrote that you don't have a plan yet... it just hit me wrong, I guess and made me worry about you even though I don't know you. You said that your daughter is going to have a baby - that's a wonderful thing. Try not to look at it as anything other than a gift. You get to be a grandma. That little person is going to love you (warts and all) because you're his or her Grandma! The two best things in the world are cuddling a newborn and fuzz therapy (of the animal variety - my dog is great for that!) Please don't feel like ending it all is the answer. Don't do anything that will keep you from knowing your grandchild or from him/her knowing and loving you just because you're you. I hope that you feel better and clearer soon. Try not to be frustrated and keep posting on the board as there is a lot of love and support here.
Michelle
Posted by Bubbasmom on February 28, 2004, at 23:19:08
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback - Mystic, posted by Bubbasmom on February 28, 2004, at 23:09:05
Hi everyone-
I'm officially on week two and I have to say that I am definately feeling the effects of the lex. The headaches and nausea are gone as is the weepy feeling and the loss of confidence. I can actually smile now and I actually laughed yesterday and it felt really good. I know that I will have my rough days, too (like everyday that I have to go to the job I hate but am bound to until July) but I am just trying to find moments of everyday that I can enjoy and feel good about instead of trying to conquer the day as a whole. I don't think I'm ready for that yet! My overall sense of well being has definately improved and I am trying to come to grips with the fact that some things are just out of my hands. I love to read all of your posts about how you're all doing. I don't feel alone in all of the feelings that I have because of all of you. I just wanted to give you all an update and say thanks again for listening and offering your support!Michelle
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