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Posted by Simus on March 18, 2004, at 10:57:05
In reply to Does it get better, posted by peace123 on March 18, 2004, at 9:11:29
>I had not slept in 6 days so the doc prescribed ambian, which i used last night and finally got some sleep.
Is this your family doctor or a psychiatrist? I would think that a pdoc would try something in the Xanax family before trying Ambien.
I don't want to be a wet blanket, but hoping for great results in 14 days on any AD is being very optimistic. The results are gradual, and can take up to 6-10 weeks for full effect. And don't be surprised if you have a setback or two along the way. You have to be patient. Good luck!
Posted by LynneDa on March 18, 2004, at 11:03:13
In reply to Increased dose, posted by ednababish on March 18, 2004, at 8:52:48
Hi EB -
I was on 10mg for 10 weeks, then went to 20mg. I have been there now for 11 weeks. I felt too much depression, anxiety, irritability, etc. the week or so before my period. Going to 20mg lessened that considerably. My s/e's were not bad, maybe a week or so, but very very mild. I am much happier in general, maybe 1 or 2 irrational outbursts per month now!Two caveats for my story - I still suffer from insomnia so it is hard to tell if the Lex is working to its fullest since I'm so tired (leading to grumpiness, irritability, less ability to function at work, all kinds of things!). The second is that I really need to get back into therapy to deal with some of my unresolved anger & low self-esteem issues (that seemed to have come with the anger & depression - never felt bad about myself before).
So, having said all that, I would recommend upping :-). It was an easy transition and I know it helped me! Good luck to you whichever you decide. We'll be here for you!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Posted by LynneDa on March 18, 2004, at 11:11:51
In reply to Does it get better, posted by peace123 on March 18, 2004, at 9:11:29
Hi! Welcome and the answer is a hearty YES . . . it does get better after a couple of weeks!! Once your brain chemicals adjust, you will have more control over your emotions and reactions, etc. I'm sorry you had to go through that at work - yuk! But, it's not your fault and the Lex has done wondrous things for many of us here on this site. Are you taking anything for the initial anxiety? It is not uncommon during this start-up period to have some increased anxiety. That passes too.
Give yourself the time you need to adjust. Keep thinking positive that you will overcome the s/e's, cuz you will! Sleep is key too - gives you the down time your body needs to do its work. Glad you got the Ambien.
Please be kind to yourself these 2 weeks - don't have great expectations for getting lots done, etc. Your body is fighting internally to become balanced - it may not look like it from the outside, but you're working hard :-). If you invest the time now to take it easy and let the Lex do it's thing, you will reap benefits for the future!
Hang in there and let us know how you're doing, okay?
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>peace to all,
>
> today is my 8th day on lexapro, i was prescribed 10 mg, but the last 2 days ( days 6 and 7 ) I had to reduce to 5mg in order to work.. but that turned into a bad seen at work.. had a stres/anxiety attack which involved having my husband come to pick me up.. and a trip to the doc's for a note to excuse me for th enext 2 weeks..so i can get use to the meds.. so today I am back on 10 mg..
>
> My question is, will things improve by day 14 ?
> Will the foggy head go away ?
>
> I had not slept in 6 days so the doc prescribed ambian, which i used last night and finally got some sleep.
>
> I just want to feel like i have some control of my emotions, and I can react in a normal way to things at work .
>
> How long does lexapro normally take to work ?
>
>
Posted by KathrynLex on March 18, 2004, at 12:06:01
In reply to I'm back!!!, posted by sexylexy on March 17, 2004, at 23:17:20
Hey Lexy,
Welcome back. I'm glad you had a fun time in Las Vegas and it's good to hear that the 15 mgs is working out for you.
So, after talking to your pdoc what have you decided about Wellbutrin? I've been thinking about adding it to my daily Lexapro dose and will discuss it with my pdoc when I meet with him on the 26th.
K.
Posted by LynneDa on March 18, 2004, at 12:12:19
In reply to Re: I'm back!!! » sexylexy, posted by KathrynLex on March 18, 2004, at 12:06:01
Hey ladies - I am close to asking about Wellbutrin as well. Let me know what your docs say, ok? I'm nervous to ask for more drugs for some reason, but my energy is not where it should be and, barring anemia or some other disorder, it just doesn't feel right.
Glad to have you both back! Kathryn, didn't you go somewhere too? Lexy - did you gamble or just see shows? I guess you managed to stay away from those little chapels?!?!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hey Lexy,
>
> Welcome back. I'm glad you had a fun time in Las Vegas and it's good to hear that the 15 mgs is working out for you.
>
> So, after talking to your pdoc what have you decided about Wellbutrin? I've been thinking about adding it to my daily Lexapro dose and will discuss it with my pdoc when I meet with him on the 26th.
>
> K.
Posted by KathrynLex on March 18, 2004, at 12:13:06
In reply to Does it get better, posted by peace123 on March 18, 2004, at 9:11:29
Hi Peace,
In my experience the side effects begin to go away around the start of week 3. A lot of people, myself included, had a difficult time adjusting to Lexapro. The muddled thinking and insomnia do get better. By the end of week 5 I was sleeping well again. The more time that goes by, the more you will feel like you have control over your emotions. Rest assured it DOES get better.
K.
Posted by KathrynLex on March 18, 2004, at 12:15:33
In reply to Re: Wellbutrin » Mrs. C, posted by Simus on March 18, 2004, at 10:47:24
Hi Simus,
I really hope the Wellbutrin works well for you. It can be frustrating trying to find the right med but hang in there, it sounds like you're making a lot of progress.
K.
Posted by KathrynLex on March 18, 2004, at 12:23:54
In reply to Increased dose, posted by ednababish on March 18, 2004, at 8:52:48
Hi EB,
Increasing can really make a difference. While I only went from 10 mgs to 15 mgs, I have seen very positive changes in my attitude.
You might want to consider a benzo, they can help with those borderline panic attack moments. I've found Xanax and Klonopin to be terrific in that capacity.
Also, if you ever feel like trying a different medication, Prozac was amazing in helping to control my wild mood swings and gave me an extra bit of energy. It didn't make me feel as lethargic as Lexapro does.
But, I'm willing to bet that you'll do well with an increase.
K.
Posted by Mrs. C on March 18, 2004, at 15:03:22
In reply to Does it get better, posted by peace123 on March 18, 2004, at 9:11:29
It absolutely gets better! My side effects were anxiety and the jitters. For a few days I was also very tired. They all subsided after about 2-3 weeks and by the sixth week I was feeling more like myself again. By week nine I was feeling incredible. No more anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts, etc. You will be different I'm sure but that's my story. This board was a lifesaver for me those first few months and will be for you too if you start coming often. We all are going through similar things and can support eachother through the difficult moments. Glad you're here. Mrs.C
Posted by want info on March 18, 2004, at 15:05:47
In reply to Re: I'm back!!! » KathrynLex, posted by LynneDa on March 18, 2004, at 12:12:19
why are people who seem to be doing well wanting to ask about adding wellbutrin? that makes me nervous...isn't just lex enough for anyone? EM
Posted by Mrs. C on March 18, 2004, at 15:06:45
In reply to Re: Wellbutrin » Mrs. C, posted by Simus on March 18, 2004, at 10:47:24
Simus, my fingers are crossed for you dear. Lexapro just may not have been the med for you. I hope that you continue to post here with us and keep us updated. Congrats on feeling better today and taking steps to improve your life. Mrs. C
Posted by LynneDa on March 18, 2004, at 15:28:57
In reply to wellbutrin??, posted by want info on March 18, 2004, at 15:05:47
Emily - You raise a very valid question . . . please don't let it worry you. Lex is wonderful!
Here is my opinion: We are human and on top of that we are (North)American - we always want bigger, better, faster, more! It's our culture, isn't it? Most of us were brought up believing pharmaceuticals & modern medicine can cure anything, right?
So, we're doing *pretty* well on Lex, but wouldn't it be just that much better if we weren't *quite* as tired or could get rid of that *last* little bit of anxiety we feel around that time of the month? For me, I'd like my insomnia & inorgasmia to go away altogether and I've heard Wellbutrin may help.
That's how I see it. Others may have different views, but I bet I'm not far off! Thanks for pointing this out to us all :-)
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>why are people who seem to be doing well wanting to ask about adding wellbutrin? that makes me nervous...isn't just lex enough for anyone? EM
Posted by KathrynLex on March 18, 2004, at 15:44:04
In reply to wellbutrin??, posted by want info on March 18, 2004, at 15:05:47
Hi EM,
I think the answer to your question vaires from person to person. In my case I've always had difficulty paying attention and focusing on tasks at work. Before finding a solution to that issue a more immediate problem of mine was anxiety and depression. Now that the Lexapro has relieved my symptoms of anxiety and depression, I can work on finding something to help my short attention span and inability to focus. Many people have had success with Wellbutrin so I've begun looking into it.
As far as my depression and anxiety are concerned Lexapro has been enough to help me get past it. So, my interest in Wellbutrin isn't related to concerns about Lex not working.
K.
Posted by Simus on March 18, 2004, at 16:12:56
In reply to wellbutrin??, posted by want info on March 18, 2004, at 15:05:47
> why are people who seem to be doing well wanting to ask about adding wellbutrin? that makes me nervous...isn't just lex enough for anyone? EM
I think the people that are considering asking for Wellbutrin are those not completely satisfied with the result of their SSRI. "Doing well" is a relative term. When I was, say, 90-95% of my old self, I was somewhat satisfied, and probably wouldn't have made a medicine change. But if I considered myself 80% or less than my old self, even though I was functional and considered myself "doing well" compared to a previous vegetative state, it would be worth it to me to seek additional help.
I will try to explain the medications to the best of my understanding - which you have to understand is limited. Lexapro is a SSRI. It targets the brain chemical serotonin. Wellbutrin is in a different class of antidepressants. It targets two completely different brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine. That is why some people need either a SSRI (Lexapro), some need Wellbutrin, and some need a combination of the two. It depends on what brain chemical deficit is responsible for their depression. Sorry for the layman's answer. There are others on the site who are far better at explaining drugs than I am.
Posted by LynneDa on March 18, 2004, at 16:20:48
In reply to Re: wellbutrin?? » want info, posted by Simus on March 18, 2004, at 16:12:56
Posted by sexylexy on March 18, 2004, at 16:33:49
In reply to Re: Wellbutrin, posted by Mrs. C on March 18, 2004, at 15:06:45
Hey Ya'll
I am still thinking about adding wellbutrin to my routine but still thinking I may hold off till my next P doc apt in april after school is done ect. I am feeling a lot better though than I have been, next week will be the big test, it should be my PMS week the 28th seems to be D-day (hehe). I have heard words such as "amazing and fabulous" to describe the combo of lex and wellbutrin they seem to go hand and hand! What are ya'lls thoughts.
Em, do not worry, lex will get you a long way but Lynne is so right that we all want more. I am feeling pretty good on lexapro but wonder if my dopamine and noprhrine need a boost as well?
God Bless,
Lexy
Posted by sexylexy on March 18, 2004, at 16:43:32
In reply to Re: Does it get better-YES!, posted by Mrs. C on March 18, 2004, at 15:03:22
Hey Guys,
I went to my pdoc today and she was asking me some questions. She is a wonderful Dr. who is actually on anti-depressant herself so I trust her 100% and am able to talk to her about the physical feelings that accompany depression and she knows first hand everything I am talking about.
She asked me if I was still feeling unconfident and still not over the depression. I told her although I am doing so much better, I am ready to kick this depression to the curb and move on my way. We decided to move up to 20mg, I figure why fight so hard if I don't have to. I am also starting to see my new therapist next week so I am excited about that as well.
I did not ask about Wellbutrin on this visit but may call her in a few weeks about it if I feel that it may be benefical. Hope all is going well.
PS. Today, I have had a terrible day, my best friend is moving to Charleston with this guy she hardly knows and is dropping out of school to do it, my research teacher accused me of cheating on a test... ( a horrible fiasco turns out the idiot thought I was someone else) which took hours of emailing and phone calling.Plus now she is saying that I was not the one who cheated but the one who was not getting their share of work done, um hello I have a A adverage, not sure if she is smoking crack, plus some stupid jealous people are trying to convince our teacher that I was infact the one who cheated because I have good grades, work hard and am smart, (its the kind of test you really could not have cheated on even if you tried) However, I have not shed a tear or over reacted, I have remained calm (well as calm as you can be when you are super pissed off) and did not get over emotional. I am proud of this and know lexapro helpped me a lot!
Hope all is well for you guys, God Bless.
Lexy
Posted by LynneDa on March 18, 2004, at 16:54:53
In reply to Moving up to 20, posted by sexylexy on March 18, 2004, at 16:43:32
Wow Lexy - what a day! Sounds like you weathered the storm really well, though.
Let me know what you decide about Wellbutrin. I'm in that undecided mode too, but just starting back into counseling in a few weeks. That may be what I need more than an additional med.
OK, your friend's moving sounds *kind of* irresponsible, I hope she doesn't regret it later!!!!! But, everyone makes at least one big giant mistake in their lives and perhaps this is hers. Hope not for her sake!
Hold your ground girlfriend; maybe this was just a test for your mental health as much as your academic knowledge! Sounds like you need to kick back tonight and really relax!!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hey Guys,
> I went to my pdoc today and she was asking me some questions. She is a wonderful Dr. who is actually on anti-depressant herself so I trust her 100% and am able to talk to her about the physical feelings that accompany depression and she knows first hand everything I am talking about.
> She asked me if I was still feeling unconfident and still not over the depression. I told her although I am doing so much better, I am ready to kick this depression to the curb and move on my way. We decided to move up to 20mg, I figure why fight so hard if I don't have to. I am also starting to see my new therapist next week so I am excited about that as well.
> I did not ask about Wellbutrin on this visit but may call her in a few weeks about it if I feel that it may be benefical. Hope all is going well.
> PS. Today, I have had a terrible day, my best friend is moving to Charleston with this guy she hardly knows and is dropping out of school to do it, my research teacher accused me of cheating on a test... ( a horrible fiasco turns out the idiot thought I was someone else) which took hours of emailing and phone calling.Plus now she is saying that I was not the one who cheated but the one who was not getting their share of work done, um hello I have a A adverage, not sure if she is smoking crack, plus some stupid jealous people are trying to convince our teacher that I was infact the one who cheated because I have good grades, work hard and am smart, (its the kind of test you really could not have cheated on even if you tried) However, I have not shed a tear or over reacted, I have remained calm (well as calm as you can be when you are super pissed off) and did not get over emotional. I am proud of this and know lexapro helpped me a lot!
> Hope all is well for you guys, God Bless.
> Lexy
Posted by want info on March 18, 2004, at 17:02:37
In reply to Re: wellbutrin?? » want info, posted by LynneDa on March 18, 2004, at 15:28:57
thanks guys. i am JUST beginning to feel better on 15mg of lex plus a tiny bit of xanax. i guess i was just a little discouraged to see that people who'd seemed so happy on lex might be reconsidering their overall happiness with the med? buy lynneda you are certainly right...we are always looking for the best!
kathrynlex thanks for your reply as well. it's good to know that the lex worked for the anxiety and depression. i actually have a good friend who had concentration problems due to adult adhd and wellbutrin worked well for her concentration.
simus, thanks for your explanation...i'm wondering if one or the other is better for anxiety...i have no problems with depression, just with anxiety. fyi if you don't already know this...i had lots of success on paxil for a long time.
thanks, EMps lexy i'm sorry you had a bad day but am glad you are feeling better. my pdoc doesnt seem convinced that 15 will be enough for me and may want me to go to 20 also?
Posted by KathrynLex on March 18, 2004, at 17:24:59
In reply to Moving up to 20, posted by sexylexy on March 18, 2004, at 16:43:32
Hi Lexy,
Good luck with the 20 mgs...I hope the adjustment goes smoothly! Sorry you had a lousy day today, tomorrow will probably be better.
K.
Posted by susielalala on March 18, 2004, at 18:12:48
In reply to Re: Does it get better » peace123, posted by Simus on March 18, 2004, at 10:57:05
I have been on Lex for 16 days. I have had good days and bad days. Your moods really change alot on this. Today I was in a good mood this morning, by 4 pm I was out of it. I felt like I was losing it. I cried all the way home. Now I am okay. I am not giving up on this medicine. I have faith that it will work. I know that it is gonna take awhile for it to work. I do have xanax to take. My anxiety has been bad. Has anyone else felt wierd in the head on this stuff? I mean kind of out of it or is it just me? Well take care all and I am praying for everyone. Keep the faith!
Posted by mystic on March 18, 2004, at 20:57:06
In reply to Re: Does it get better, posted by susielalala on March 18, 2004, at 18:12:48
Hey Ali ...it will get better you know it will..And you are feeling normal and you have to give it time...16 days is getting there but it took me and most of the other people 4-6 weeks It is irritating that I think that our Drs and literature tell us that it is quick and that you can see results in 2 weeks but that is just not so for everyone..So when 2 weeks come we are discouraged and ready to give up..not to mention the terrible anxiety we feel at the same time..>For me the depression lifted before the anxiety and I'm still struggling with the anxiety but not 1/2 as bad...so that is what you are going towards...you will soon be on the posts saying how much better you feel I promise..and If you need me you know where to find me...Hope your night got better and you took a xanax...Mystic
Posted by mystic on March 18, 2004, at 21:03:24
In reply to Does it get better, posted by peace123 on March 18, 2004, at 9:11:29
It definately will get better...Like I said in an earlier post the drs tell us that it will be about 2 weeks but in reality it takes about 4-6 and sometimes longer but it does happen for everyone it seems to be different for me the depression was faster to go away than the anxiety but I was taking xanax with it when I needed it and it helped but I know that most of us are phobic about meds and that is hard but there comes a point where you just have to feel better and it helps while letting us get used to the lexapro and to get through work..I would take it once a day to go to work and then not on the weekends..but an answer to your question is YES it will get better..and just keep posting because these people in this room are angels...Will think of you and talk to you soon..>Mystic
Posted by jlynne on March 18, 2004, at 23:12:01
In reply to I'm back!!!, posted by sexylexy on March 17, 2004, at 23:17:20
Hi, Lexy and Kathryn. I guess I started posting right around the time you went away. Seeing your enthusiasm has given me some encouragement and hope that maybe this stuff will really do something good eventually. I started at 10mg, then upped to 15mg about a week ago (I am early in my 6th week).
Nice going on the ring thing, Lexy! And I look forward to reading more posts from both of you.
By the way, I am trying to keep track of what time zones we are all in - I am in Pacific Standard. You? Thanks:^) ...jlynne
Posted by sexylexy on March 18, 2004, at 23:19:55
In reply to Lexy and Kathryn, posted by jlynne on March 18, 2004, at 23:12:01
Hey Jlynne!
This is Lexy. Believe me, I would not have made it though the lexapro with out my the lexapro family that I have found on this board. I am so glad you joined us and am looking forward to learning from each other. Its nice to know that my post can make people feel better. I know that they used to drag people down. Lexapro has helped me so much, I had never had a depressive episode but got on a birth control pill which gave me depression, I am hoping it is not a life long struggle but if it is so be it. I am not back to 100% but am feeling better and able to enjoy myself again. This is a lot from a girl who a few months back was scared to be alone because I was having super scary suicidal thoughts but when I was around people I was soooooooo sensitive that I would burst into tears if they looked at me the wrong way. My days are not all sunshine and cherrys but I am really looking foward to the day where I wake up and breathe a sigh of relief knowing that I have made it though. I know this day will come and I count on the support of my lexapro family to help me get there! So glad you have come!
God Bless,
Lexy
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