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Starting with Lexapro (escitalopram) - Need Support

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Posted 7/24/2015 1:23 AM (GMT 0)
Hi all, don't want to hijack the thread but would also like some support about Lexapro.

This is day 7 for me on 20mg after 6 months of 25mg of Paxil. I swapped straight over with no taper and to be honest I've been feeling kinda average. My head is a lot "clearer" which is why I wanted to try something else, but I'm experiencing some breakthrough anxiety. Is this to be expected and how long do you think it will last?
Posted 7/24/2015 8:12 AM (GMT 0)
Hi

Happy to hear you are doing better.

Keep us posted.

Hibee
Posted 7/24/2015 12:48 PM (GMT 0)
HI Aus_Dad, break thru anxiety is a known side effect of starting an AD and actually is one of the main symptoms that most people experience with any of the AD's. It should start getting better after 2 or 3 weeks, it's important to use your coping skills during this phase of start up.
Posted 7/24/2015 5:53 PM (GMT 0)
Day 18 on 5mg now!

The fatigue and fuzzyness today is even more intense than yesterday. While the first two weeks on Lexapro it felt like I was overcaffeinatedall the time, now it feels like crazy caffeine withdrawal. I have a crushing headache and my body is achy and exhausted and I can't concentrate. I'm not anxious, but I'm so tired and feel drugged. I've been getting my usual 7-8 hours of sleep. Has anyone else had this experience of new side effects in the 3rd week?

I hear about people having no or minor side effects going straight onto 10mg, so I feel like a crazy person having such a roller coaster on 5mg.

Post Edited (lumpycomforter) : 7/24/2015 11:59:16 AM (GMT-6)

Posted 7/24/2015 10:06 PM (GMT 0)
It isn't abnormal to have different side effects in the beginning of taking an AD. You just started not to long ago, however if the symptoms get worse or don't go away by the end of the 4th week I would call your doctor and tell him whats going on.

You are doing awesome, Keep on Fighting, You got this! :)
Posted 7/25/2015 8:46 AM (GMT 0)
Hi

Thanks for the update.

The first few weeks of starting an AD can be rocky and things normally get worse before they start to get better again which is weird I know but from my experience that's what seems to happen.

I would stay in contact with your doctor and if things don't start to improve in the next couple of weeks then go back and speak with your doctor.

Keep us posted.

Hibee
Posted 8/4/2015 4:14 PM (GMT 0)
Just an update! I'm at 4 weeks on 5mgs Lexapro and I can see a huge improvement. I feel much more level! I just took a long weekend vacation and was able to actually relax out of town for the first tjme in almost a year! The trip involved so many things that usually cause me anxiety: driving, unfamiliar places, driving through a tunnel, socializing in a large group of people I dont know well, and I had a great time! I can tell that the lexapro has had a huge effect on my social anxiety (im able to freely express myself without my constant internal criticism and second guessing).

I'm not 100% better, but im getting closer. I feel hopeful!
Posted 8/4/2015 4:37 PM (GMT 0)
Awesome! Glad to hear that you're doing better and managed to have a fun and relaxing vacation!
Posted 8/4/2015 5:13 PM (GMT 0)
cool tongue turn smilewinkgrin Great news!!!

Thanks for updating us...and may your progress continue! !

So happy to hear you had a great trip as well...you deserved that break!

Keep us updated,

S.C.
Posted 8/4/2015 10:21 PM (GMT 0)
That is great! I'm so very happy for you.
Posted 8/5/2015 12:28 AM (GMT 0)
Awesome news lumpy
Posted 3/29/2017 4:53 PM (GMT 0)
I started on 10mg of Lexapro several weeks ago. I was having terrible insomnia. My doctor cut my dose to 5 mg. The first couple of days I slept better but since then the insomnia has returned. I don't know if I should give up or keep trying and hope that the insomnia will improve. My mood has lightened so I feel it is effective. Any thoughts or advice from anyone?
Posted 3/29/2017 6:35 PM (GMT 0)
Hi AliceD and welcome!

I am sorry you are experiencing this common effect of Lexapro...it is pretty known to be an activating med.

Just a simple troubleshoot first...are you taking your pill in the a.m.?

S.C.
Posted 10/4/2017 3:09 PM (GMT 0)
I just began on Lexipro generic version for my depression/anxiety. I have always had anxiety and I feel maybe depression has always plagued me. I am hoping this journey works as I really screwed up my marriage and family and I am trying to fix it all now by trying to start with fixing myself and getting in shape and trying to treat my constant sadness and woa is me...

Has Lexipro helped anyone in the same type of situation?
Posted 10/4/2017 6:08 PM (GMT 0)
Hi hopingforhappiness and welcome!

I applaud you for taking the steps you have in an effort to feel your best, and improve your relationships. This takes much courage and effort...so well done!

Medication can be an excellent tool. Of course, it is not a one size fits all type of result, so while getting informed is a good idea...take other's experiences as simply a guideline, since everyone will have their own unique reaction to any given Rx.

Medication is only part of a well rounded anxiety (and depression) management plan, so I always recommend therapy and self help as well.

For the latter, please see our Resources at the top of the main forum page here for great material you can get started on right away.

Keep posting with us as well if you find it helpful. You can start your own new thread of introduction for yourself so more members can recognize you as a new member and welcome you. smile

We care, understand and support is key, so share anytime!

Scaredy Cat
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