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First day of lexapro. Advice please please please.

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Posted 8/22/2013 11:56 PM (GMT 0)
I took my first 5mg lexapro yesterday morning. Today at 430 I had four trips to the bathroom for diareah. I'm super bummed because I have been putting off taking this medication for so long because I'm so afraid of side effects like this one. I'm afraid after just one day I'm going to quit, and I was finally on my way to getting past my anxiety and depression. . I'd take it again today, but I CANNOT risk going diareah at work tomorrow. So really when can I ever start this medication? How long does the diareah last? Is it possible it could be just the first time then never again? Ugh. I'm so sad I really thought I was on my way to getting better now I'm already throwing in the towel.
Posted 8/23/2013 2:36 PM (GMT 0)
Hi and welcome,

I am sorry that you were not feeling well after taking your Rx. I do think that it may be a coincidence though.

Ususally s/e's do not come on after just a one time dose, so this may be attributed to the anxiety itself, or something that you ate perhaps.

I would give it another try, and see how you feel. You can bring some Immodium to work if you need to.

When in doubt, a call to your doctor or even your pharmacist can help with these types of med questions.

It does take time to find the right medication for you...but if you can stick it out...even if this is a result of your Rx, you may end up with something that really helps you to feel well in the long run.

Post anytime.

Scaredy Cat
Posted 8/23/2013 2:58 PM (GMT 0)
Jessc,

Welcome aboard ! I agree 100% with SC.  If Lexapro is the cause of your diarrhea then it may resolve itself with a few more doses.  If it persists do call your DR. as well as remember to keep yourself hydrated.

Please keep talking to us as we are here to help and support you in any way we can.

Posted 8/23/2013 5:58 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you both so much for caring. I'm not even a big fan off meds to start. I'd prefer to go natural, but aren't sure if its possible. This episodic def didn't help. I was kinda thinking it may have been a coin incidence as well, but of course even if it was I'm scared now. Lol. I was thinking of taking it in a 2.5 mg dose to see if that helps. If at all possible do you think 2.5 mg would be enough to stay on indefinantly? Or would I just be eating a pill and having side effects for nothing?
Posted 8/23/2013 6:43 PM (GMT 0)
Jessc, whats the chances of starting on the weekend? Peace

Larry ***
Posted 8/23/2013 7:50 PM (GMT 0)
Larry right now I'm 50/50 for starting tonight for the weekend. Every minute I switch my answer. I do not mind feeling yucky at home, but I fear the side effects will wait and show their nasty faces come Monday instead of Sat or Sun. All this back and forth in my head makes me wonder if I should just continue to go the all natural route. confused
Posted 8/23/2013 8:29 PM (GMT 0)
Jess,

Have you tried any self-help methods for managing your anxiety? Is therapy an option for you at this time?

I ask, because these are two things that you could consider either with or without continuing your medication.

I do really think that you should talk to your precribing doctor though before making a final choice...ultimately the decision is yours of course, but it could help you to make the best informed decision!

Best wishes, and keep up updated.:)

S.C.
Posted 8/23/2013 10:08 PM (GMT 0)
I have read a few self help books, and I'm a believer you can help yourself as much as meds can help you. ( for my specific case of course) its like I have all the tools yet I'm still phobic and anxious. This why I broke down and tried a medication. I think persistence is key for self help and that I may have lacked. Iv seen a therapist and hope to see one again soon as soon as money is an option. I think they are extremely beneficial. My dr wants me med free and says if I choose to take the med to give me that extra push that was fine too. I think I may try one more month of my books, meditations and worksheets. This time be persistent. I really appreciate everyone who talked to me. Is there any other resources I could benefit from on this site? Ready to take a journey. Just picked up b vitamin complex to see if it helps!!
Posted 8/23/2013 10:19 PM (GMT 0)
Also. I don't know how to make a new post ( when I signed up it asked me) or find my old post. ( I'm finding via email now) can someone teach me?
Posted 8/24/2013 1:04 AM (GMT 0)
I just went the same thing with lexapro. But my doc started me at 10mg. I felt horrible, I couldn't eat, kept going to the bathroom. I thought I could stick it out but yet again side effects made me stop. I can't handle feeling that bad and I really wanted to try and stick it out. But my emetophobia got in the way. If it involves nausea, vomiting and diarreah I just give up. I was also put on seroquel so I tried skipping the lexapro and just tried the seroquel but that one made me feel bad too.

I hate living with this anxiety all the time and I wish they could figure out what will work for me. I've been switched a lot just because I cannot take the side effects. I've read that after at least 2 weeks they taper off but I can't stop my life for that long because I don't feel good because of a medication. I've read people even in 3 weeks still feeling bad. Plus if they increase the dose you go through it all again.

I'm trying my hardest to keep myself sane without the pills but its hard. I hope it works out for you if you decide to stick it out.

Good luck and I hope you feel better soon.
Posted 8/24/2013 2:38 AM (GMT 0)
Okay...Forum 101!! :)

I know, it took me awhile to figure all of this out too.

Here are our Resources. They are at the top of the main page...but here is the link. There is all sorts of great stuff in there. Video links for coping exercises, book recommedations, CBT worksheet downloads and more!
https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=9&m=104206


To make a new post...you simple hit the blue icon that says 'Post New Topic' It is at the top left of any page.

To find your old posts, you can do one of two things. If it is a newer post, simply click on your screen-name anywhere on the forum, and it will show you your last 10 posts.  (you can do this for anyone member actually.)

To find and older post, you will need to do a search. Click on the 'Search' icon (toolbar, top of the page, right) and input key words.

I hope that this helps...if not, post back and I will try to clarify.

Glad that you have joined us.:)

S.C.

Posted 8/24/2013 3:18 AM (GMT 0)
Yeah!thank you so much for teaching me. Looking forward to use ing the resources. You really made my day! thank you!! Bakomon I too am an emetophobe. Aaaahhhh. I do know if you stick with a med the side effects will taper, but as you said not everyone has a week or two to spare. I have a job where I can't run to the restroom and requires some driving. :(. If you ever get a week off maybe try then. Iv read many books, and looked into many techniques. Not sure if there is a private message button but if so pls feel free to ask me anything. Plus we can swap info on our phobia. Lol. Natural is absolutely possible. Hard work, but hey so are the pills. Haha. Good luck with whatever choice you make!!
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