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Changing an AD during treatment

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Anxiety & Panic Disorders
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Posted 8/9/2015 12:01 PM (GMT 0)
I was told by my therapist on Friday that she wants to change my medication. She thinks I am not getting the benefits I should be from it. Has anyone had any experiences changing meds? What should I expect?
Posted 8/9/2015 1:24 PM (GMT 0)
Hi DS

I have had many medication changes over the years and i'm not going to lie they can be tough going and you will probably see an increase in your symptoms until you settle on the new medication.

Some AD are eaiser than other to discontinue but your therapist should know all about this. It is best to slowly reduce the dosage of an AD over a couple of weeks and in some cases months to reduce the chance of withdrawal effects.

What AD are you on? And what are you changing to?

Hibee
Posted 8/9/2015 3:18 PM (GMT 0)
D.S.,

I don't have personal experience to share, but wanted to add my encouragement in your continued recovery efforts!

I think it is good that your therapist recognizes that you could be feeling better, and is seeking to help you find the best Rx for you.

Use your coping skills during your transition, and keep us posted. We will keep you in support!

S.C.
Posted 8/9/2015 7:37 PM (GMT 0)
I have begun to slowly decrease the med now. Today was my first day decreasing it. I felt a little odd. Maybe it's all in my head...with anxiety you never know. I am taking 10mg of Lexapro and have decreased it down to 7.5 mg. I don't have any idea of what she wants to try next. I forgot to ask as I was more concerned about the effects of coming off a med and was asking questions about it. I've only been on this med for 2 and a half months. I'm hoping that my body hasn't become to use to it too much. It's a short period of time.
Posted 8/9/2015 11:29 PM (GMT 0)
D.S.,

Just call your doctor this week for clarification on your weaning schedule. You'll likely be on this dose for at least a week or two before dropping down.

Some people find taking fish oil helps with discontinuation issues, so if you are not using them already, you may want to consider this.

Also, here are some great self help exericses to keep you as calm as possible and assiste in anxiety management during your transition.:)

http://www.stress-relief-exercises.com/

Keep us posted, and we'll keep you in support!

S.C.

S.C.

Posted 8/10/2015 7:50 AM (GMT 0)
Hi

You should not have to many problems as long as you wean slowly Lexapro is one of the easier meds to come off imo.

Keep us posted.

Hibee
Posted 8/10/2015 4:10 PM (GMT 0)
I have been weaning slowly. I will drop 2.5 mg every 2 weeks. I feel ok on my second day. Had a few headaches and a few weird feelings, but I am ok. Holding together quite nicely. My therapist also prescribed me Xanax to use as needed, so if things get bad I will take one of those. I tried a mindfulness video last night and it was quite nice. I felt relaxed afterward and kinda liked it. I will up my cardio exercises the next few days and I have a positive attitude about getting better. I am actually thinking to stay off AD's all together.
Posted 8/10/2015 4:53 PM (GMT 0)
tongue   :-) smilewinkgrin

Sounds like a solid plan!  Great job on getting all the help and support you need, making a pro-active plan for yourself!

Keep up the good work, and update us soon on your progress.:)

S.C.

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