Day 13 of Prozac....help please

I have been suffering from GAD and health anxiety for the last 7 months. Actually, I have dealt with anxiety to some degree for the last 25 years, but it has peaked in the last 7 months. After several rounds of zoloft which was just not right for me and Xanax and klonopin, I am now on day 13 of Prozac. The first week was horrible, I had a headache everyday, dizziness, blurry vision, and I was tired until it was time to sleep. The headache has subsided and I still have occasional dizzy spells and heart palpitations but I have really not had any relief from my anxiety. It actually seems like it has gotten worse, is this normal? I’m on 10mg and my psychiatrist doesn’t want to up my dose initially due to my health anxiety and fear of medication. Is there any hope for anxiety relief at this current dose? I was hoping things would get better at the two week mark....any encouragement and/or advice is appreciated.....

Hi Tired!

I am sorry to hear that things have been rough the last few months...but glad that you are pro-actively working to get your management plan going in the right direction...well done!

SSRI's will often initially increase anxiety...making things more difficult before they get better, This is ironic since this is the time you need help the most...but rest assured that it is temporary, and a means to an end. IOW...hang in there, it will be better and the short struggle is worth the benefit in the big picture!

I absolutely second Jennings recommendation of considering therapy for your best well rounded recovery program...

...and for now, practice self help coping skills (see our Resources if you need material!) for feeling your best possible...now and beyond your start up.

Post anytime for sharing and support, and update when you can.

S.C.