Lexapro, insomnia, and escalating anxiety

JBW613

New Member

Joined : Dec 2010

Posts : 8

Posted 12/7/2010 3:46 PM (GMT 0)

HI,
I am new to this forum. I have had terrible anxiety that it has consumed my life and has made it very difficult for me to work and enjoy my family. I recently got on Lexapro. Im on day 5 of 10mg. I feel my anxiety has escalated since on the meds and i have had some insomnia. Has anyonehad experience with this and does it subside. I understand the medication may take a few weeks to take effect. In the meanintime I am taking xanax .5 (once or twice a day)

Thanks,

JBW

getting by

Forum Moderator

Joined : Sep 2007

Posts : 45296

Posted 12/7/2010 4:49 PM (GMT 0)

Hi JBW,

Welcome to the Anxiety/Panic forum. I am not a regular moderator, but wanted to welcome you. It takes a couple of weeks for side effects to go away. In the meantime I would let the doc know that you aren't sleeping well. Lexapro can take four to six weeks to reach it's full effect, so be patient. I take xanax as well. I can take three a day, but I take two if I can get away with it. That way I never run out. I always worry about that. So be patient. And I am sure that there will be others on with their input.

Hugs, Karen

Hibee

Forum Moderator

Joined : Oct 2008

Posts : 7935

Posted 12/7/2010 10:43 PM (GMT 0)

Hi JBW

Welcome to the forum you have found a place were you can come and gain support from people who can relate to what you are going through. I take Lexapro and have found it to be the most effective AD I have been on and I have been on a few, It will take about two weeks to get used to the medication and as Karen said it can take upto 8 weeks before you feel any positive effect. Have you tried CBT? this a talk therapy which has great success in helping you deal with your anxiety, I have used this and found it very beneficial and I know other members have also used CBT so could be an extra to look into. Keep in close contact with your doctor and be open and honest with them so they can be of the most support to you and keep posting here and we can give you support and advice.

Ben

stkitt

Elite Member

Joined : Apr 2007

Posts : 32602

Posted 12/8/2010 12:41 AM (GMT 0)

JBW613
It can be a rough road getting onto meds and if you have read or heard of how hard it is for one person please don't feel that you are bound to have a tough time. I always take my AD meds in the morning so by evening I can usually sleep. Do give yourself plenty of time to adjust to your med. It will usually take 6-8 weeks to feel the full therapuetic effect.

Meanwhile be good to yourself, know we care and if you need to do call your Doctor.

Welcome aboard. We love new members.

Kindly,

Kitt

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