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New to Lexapro- felt great, now regressed. Is this normal???

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Anxiety & Panic Disorders
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Posted 4/27/2015 2:52 AM (GMT 0)
I have just started Lexapro for GAD. I haven't had a long history with anxiety but an abusive marriage, a divorce, and a toxic work environment triggered anxiety that interferes with my functioning. I just started Lexapro: 2.5mg daily for 4 days and then 5mg. I've been on 5mg for 6 days. I felt great-like my old self- for the first 3-4 days after titrating to 5mg. But a couple days ago I started feeling the crushing anxiety again. All the symptoms are coming back. Does this mean I need to go to 10mg? Or is this just what happens even at the right dose?

I'm a novice to these meds. Thank you for your input.
Posted 4/27/2015 3:36 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Yogagirl and welcome!
It is hard to say at your point in start up just exactly what it going on...
It could be one a few things.
One, it is possible that you are having increase effects from doubling your dose, and your body is adjusting to the new level of medication. Did you have initial start up s/e's such as increased anxiety?
Conversely, it could be that an increase is needed. When did your doctor recommend going to the 10mg's...and what is your final level goal set for?
Finally, this could simply be breatkthrough anxiety which just happens. Meds cannot cover all of the anxiety symptoms, and ideally should be used along with therapy/coping skills.
From your screen name I am guessing that you do yoga/exercise/meditation? If you would like to pick up more skills, here is the link to our Resources filled with great material!

https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=9&m=104206

Ultimately talking with your doctor about how to proceed is in order, so call as soon as possible for advice.
Keep posting with us if you find it helpful. We understand, care and support is key!
Scaredy Cat
Posted 4/27/2015 4:15 AM (GMT 0)
When my doc wrote the script she said 5mg would be my goal dose. I know that according to the drug indications, 10mg qd is the lowest therapeutic dose, so I thought I might need a higher dose.

I only had side effects when I first started at 2.5mg. After that I was great--even after moving to 5mg. I am tempted to take 10mg tonight, but I know it's wiser to wait to speak to her tomorrow.
Posted 4/27/2015 7:27 AM (GMT 0)
Hi

Welcome to the forum.

Lexapro is a good medication I used to be on it and found it worked well for my GAD.

Unfortunately it is the norm to feel a little worse before you get better when increasing a dose so stick with it if you can and you should be feeling better in a few days if your not go back and speak with your doctor.

Hibee
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