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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Mrs C. on January 30, 2004, at 17:46:53
In reply to Increased Lex Last Night, posted by KathrynLex on January 30, 2004, at 13:21:38
K, glad to hear that you are feeling okay! Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs C. on January 30, 2004, at 17:58:18
In reply to Lexapro for OCD?, posted by bluesfan on January 30, 2004, at 13:25:08
BLuesfan, There seems to be a fine line between OCD and generalized anxiety. I am currently in college studying psychology. I am very new to it though. My current course is abnormal psychology which is very interesting to me considering my current mental health status. I have OCD. Any obessive thinking that is extreme and causes disruption in your life and lasts for more than 6 months is considered to be obsessive. The compulsion comes from doing things that ease your anxiety about your obsession that take up more than an hour per day. For me, I obsess about my health and to make myself feel better I will look in medical books, online or anywhere else I can for information on my symptoms. It takes up alot of my time. If I am obsessing, my thoughts constantly go to my worry no matter what I am doing. Quite disruptive to my life to say the least. The Lexapro has seemed to help me. I haven't really had a true test yet though because I haven't had any symptoms to worry about. Although I do feel happier and less anxious. More mellow and patient. Maybe my absence of any symptoms to worry about is coming from the Lex, I don't know. I hope this has helped you. Please keep in mind that I am not an expert on the subject or a doctor. Just knowledgeable about OCD as I have experienced it. Let me know if I can help further. Mrs. C
Posted by nottoosoupy on January 30, 2004, at 22:10:58
In reply to Re: Question about Increasing » KathrynLex, posted by LynneDa on January 30, 2004, at 14:17:50
I have been on Lex for about a month now, two weeks ago I switched from 5 to 10. I am going through my first period on the drug and I am so happy that other people have experienced what I am going through! I am so relating to all of the posts here, it is really nice to have a community of people to talk to about this. I can totally relate to the irritated feeling this week, but am SO happy I am not crying and yelling.
> Kathryn - The only noticeable change at 20 mg was during the 10 days before my period and, yes, I would say that has been significant. I was fine during the other weeks of the month at 10mg.
>
> This week, I have been slightly irritated, a little "wired but tired" and sleepy - but not weepy or angry (losing my temper)and able to stay on course much better at work than at 10mg. This is my 2nd "bad week" on 20 mg. It was a little better last month and a little more better this month :-).
>
> Hang in there, it may take a few weeks to let you know if you did the right thing. We'll be here for you!!
> ~ Lynne
Posted by Mrs C. on January 30, 2004, at 22:35:53
In reply to Re: Question about Increasing, posted by nottoosoupy on January 30, 2004, at 22:10:58
Hi Soupy, hope you dont mind the abbreviated name. Anyway, glad that we have been able to help you. We all try to support eachother as much as possible. I think that you will find this to be a very comforting group.Even though I am feeling much better these days I still look forward to reading the posts and replying to some. Good Luck to you! Mrs. C
Posted by vandy on January 30, 2004, at 23:56:11
In reply to Re: dosages? » LynneDa, posted by Linda P. on January 30, 2004, at 10:39:22
Sounds to me like "Damn, things are too good to last" syndrome.
> LynneDa - Been following the exchange between you and Simus. First of all, I think it's safe to say most husbands think we wives think too much. (*:*) Secondly, sometimes there is NO "ah-ha" moment. When I had my first anxiety episode, my life was almost 100% perfect: we were building our dream home, both newly retired, three wonderful kids and their spouses, and seven gorgeous grandchildren. I have searched and searched and searched my conscience, my soul, my life events - and there were NO un-healed memories, no loose ends. NOTHING was bothering me. And wham! I got hit with this anxiety/depression/nausea thing that lasted three weeks - this was a little over four years ago - lost thirty pounds, terrified to go anywhere, and my outlook was utterly bleak. In retrospect, (maybe my "ah-ha" moment), I suspect good old female hormones. I was 56 years old at the time - well into menopause (tried all kinds of HRT, but they were utterly useless - gave up. We tend to underestimate hormones - but they are pretty powerful, as most of us know.) All my medical tests came back normal-normal-normal at the time, and that's when I started on the psychiatric route. Began with a mix of Paxil and Depakote, dropped the Depakote after a year, and then made the switch to Lexapro a year ago. I think the tendency to get busy-busy with the needs of others (spouses, family)is a sort of defense mechanism to stave off the sense of oncoming foreboding and gloom that comes hand-in-hand with anxiety/depression. It's as if, "If I run fast enough, it won't catch me." But all in all, I am convinced that what is/was wrong with me was hormone-based - and whatever it is in Paxil and then Lexapro have restored me to me, for which I'm intensely grateful.And if I have to take it for the rest of my life, so be it. It beats the alternative! Linda P.
Posted by sip on January 31, 2004, at 2:26:38
In reply to Re: Ladies on lex. please respond! FEELING HORRIBLE, posted by lepus on January 28, 2004, at 21:34:25
Lepus, how did it go? Please do keep us posted.
Unfortunately I can't seem to keep up with this board -- but I am grateful to be able to check in and see how folks are doing and find out new info.
Just wanted to give a little update: I am just about at 2 months on Lex and the changes have been incredible. I feel much more optimistic, much more steady, not prone to despair and negativity so much. Plus I find myself being more open and flexible in psychotherapy and my therapist noted that I seem to be in the middle of shifting toward listening to myself more. She observed that I am a very sensitive person who often accurately reads and then uses cues from other people (what they want/need) to determine my behavior and she's noticed that I seem to do better at being with myself. This shift has caused me to feel a litttle disoriented in some regards, but I am really glad I went on Lex.
I was worried in the beginning about a certain emotional flatness I was experiencing. I hadn't been crying at all. This is a rather funny sentence to write but last week I cried and was relieved about it. I feel like I can experience my feelings of sadness or disappointment without drowning in them.
Also I remember my dreams almost everyday. At first I thought I was having more vivid dreams but then I realized I didn't used to rememeber my dreams so this is a new development.
Not so positive developments:
*Intense* carb cravings.
Weak and delayed orgasmsI started taking gingko biloba for the sexual s/e's today and will report back if people are interested. I am still trying to figure out what to do about the carb cravings. I currently don't exercise and am at average weight (and don't seem to have gained) but I think I am going to need to get off my ass and start walking.
Lastly, I used to have terrible depressive PMS. I would cry very easily and become extremely sad. My PMS has lessened somewhat (this was true last month as well). But I noticed this month that rather than depressiveness I am bitchy and irritable. Nothing out of control or rageful (and frankly I kind of prefer being irritable than depressed and self-hating) but it's interesting.
Thanks for everyone's support and helpful words!!!
Posted by nottoosoupy on January 31, 2004, at 17:10:06
In reply to Re: Question about Increasing » nottoosoupy, posted by Mrs C. on January 30, 2004, at 22:35:53
Thanks Mrs. C! It was actually your teeth clenching post that got my interest in this group! So glad you wrote back. My doctor said that the teeth clenching is a symptom of the anxiety that is a side effect of this drug. I also notice that my teeth chatter a lot in the cold, uncontrolably. I also shake my legs like in a nervous tic kind of way when I am at work. That is also supposed to be another anxiety symptom. The dr. said these things would pass eventually, the teeth clenching has subsided some in the past week for me. It was very troublesome for the first few nights though...glad you wrote that because it helped me a lot!
> Hi Soupy, hope you dont mind the abbreviated name. Anyway, glad that we have been able to help you. We all try to support eachother as much as possible. I think that you will find this to be a very comforting group.Even though I am feeling much better these days I still look forward to reading the posts and replying to some. Good Luck to you! Mrs. C
Posted by BobYuma on January 31, 2004, at 17:36:27
In reply to Re: Question about Increasing, posted by nottoosoupy on January 31, 2004, at 17:10:06
Hello, Friends.
It's Bob again. I just passed the ninth-week mark on Lex. Over a week ago I thought that the SE's had all but disappeared, but not so ... in the last few days the horrible, unmistakable Lexapro headaches have returned. The pain is always in and "behind" the temples. Today the headache got so bad before I could get back home and take something, that the pain went down into my jaws and even my teeth felt like they were hurting.
I'm just wondering if anyone else has experienced this particular SE coming back after eight weeks. Thanks for all your care and support, don't know what I'd do without you folks.
Take care, BobYuma
Posted by KathrynLex on January 31, 2004, at 19:26:43
In reply to Those Darn Headaches, posted by BobYuma on January 31, 2004, at 17:36:27
Hi Bob,
I've never had headaches on lex (knock on wood) although I know they're fairly common. After nine weeks I'm surprised that the headaches are returning. It's something your pdoc should be aware of, he/she might be able to suggest a remedy.
It may not be the lex. Did you consume more coffee than usual or spend a lot of time at the computer? Both can cause headaches...or are you having recurring problems with headaches? Take some Advil and call your pdoc. Please keep us posted on how you're doing. I hope that you feel well again soon.
K.
Posted by weky on January 31, 2004, at 21:36:27
In reply to Those Darn Headaches, posted by BobYuma on January 31, 2004, at 17:36:27
I had the horrible headaches you described the whole time I was on Lexapro. Sometimes they went on for days. Then I'd be fine for a few days and then the headache would come back. Lowering the dose didn't really help me all that much. Now I've been off Lex for about a week- headache is better, but still there (i.e. it's not stabbing anymore, but it's still pretty bad). I had never had these migraine type headaches before I went on Lex. I hope they don't continue now that I'm off. You should talk to your doc to see what they say you can do- I know that headache can make you really non-functional. Hope you feel better!!
> Hello, Friends.
> It's Bob again. I just passed the ninth-week mark on Lex. Over a week ago I thought that the SE's had all but disappeared, but not so ... in the last few days the horrible, unmistakable Lexapro headaches have returned. The pain is always in and "behind" the temples. Today the headache got so bad before I could get back home and take something, that the pain went down into my jaws and even my teeth felt like they were hurting.
> I'm just wondering if anyone else has experienced this particular SE coming back after eight weeks. Thanks for all your care and support, don't know what I'd do without you folks.
> Take care, BobYuma
Posted by Mrs C. on January 31, 2004, at 22:20:20
In reply to Re: Question about Increasing, posted by nottoosoupy on January 31, 2004, at 17:10:06
Hey, glad I could help! You will continue to feel better as the days pass. The anxiety subsides and calm feelings take over. I still do experience some of the anxiety side effects from time to time but it is very mild and passes quickly. Looking forward to hearing from you on the board again soon. Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs C. on January 31, 2004, at 22:23:01
In reply to Those Darn Headaches, posted by BobYuma on January 31, 2004, at 17:36:27
Hey Bob,
Sorry to hear that you aren't feeling well. I have never really had the lexapro headaches but I have had side effects return after awhile. I have been on lex for almost 4 months and I still feel the anxiety side effect from time to time. It always passes quickly and I hope the same for your headaches. Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs C. on January 31, 2004, at 22:25:55
In reply to Re: Those Darn Headaches, posted by weky on January 31, 2004, at 21:36:27
Hi everyone,
I feel stupid asking but what is a pdoc? I have been wondering that since I began reading this board and I finally feel comfortable enough with all of you to ask. Thanks. Mrs. C
Posted by terrics on February 1, 2004, at 12:48:59
In reply to What's a pdoc?, posted by Mrs C. on January 31, 2004, at 22:25:55
Hi Mrs. C. Psychiatrist, shrink, pdoc =all the same. theresa
Posted by KathrynLex on February 1, 2004, at 13:09:39
In reply to Re: Question about Increasing, posted by Mrs C. on January 31, 2004, at 22:20:20
Hi Mrs. C,
Increasing hasn't been nearly as bad as I thought it would. I feel a little more tired than usual, but other than that everything is fine. My anxiety/depression is under control and I feel pretty good.
You mentioned that you still have some anxiety. I thought that mine was a side effect of the lex too, but when I discussed it with my pdoc he said that it was just regular anxiety and a higher dose of lex could help. So far it has. It's funny but it never even occured to me that I was experiencing plain old anxiety that was unrelated to the lex. This may not be the case with you, but it's a possibility that you might discuss with your pdoc.
I hope you've had a wonderful weekend!
K.
Posted by sexylexy on February 1, 2004, at 14:37:19
In reply to Re: What's a pdoc? » Mrs C., posted by terrics on February 1, 2004, at 12:48:59
Hey Ya'll
Just wanted to write and say that I have had a pretty weekend. I think maybe the worse is over (pray, pray, pray) I am hoping that the lexapro is starting to kick in. I hope you all have a great weekend and week. GO PANTHERS!
Posted by Mrs C. on February 1, 2004, at 15:24:43
In reply to Re: Question about Increasing, posted by KathrynLex on February 1, 2004, at 13:09:39
Thanks K,
I will give that some thought. The anxiety I feel is more physical than emotional. I feel kinda jittery, like too much caffeine. This started happening when I began taking Lex and still happens from time to time. I think it is the Lex but I will discuss it with my doctor next time I see her. Alot of you reference your "pdoc". I have been told that this is a psychiatrist. I have never seen one. My primary care doc diagnosed me and presribed the lex. I am thinking that I may benefit from seeing someone trained in psychology. I'm thinking about mentioning it to her when I go back. Any thoughts? Thanks for your input and I am glad that you are doing well. Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs C. on February 1, 2004, at 15:27:11
In reply to hey ya'll, posted by sexylexy on February 1, 2004, at 14:37:19
Yeah! I am happy that you seem to be feeling better! Enjoy your day! My husband is from N. Carolina originally, so I say GO PANTHERS!! too. Mrs. C
Posted by KathrynLex on February 1, 2004, at 15:44:26
In reply to Re: Question about Increasing, posted by Mrs C. on February 1, 2004, at 15:24:43
Hi Mrs. C,
I think it's a great idea to have your primary care doc refer you to a good psychiatrist (pdoc). It can be very beneficial to sit down with someone and work on your depression/anxiety. It's costly, but worth it.
Someone else on this board mentioned that meds should be used as a tool in treating your depression/anxiety. A pdoc, regular exercise, a good diet etc...are also tools in helping you lead the best life possible. The more tools you have, the easier it is to construct a healthy you.
Let us know if you decide to go to a pdoc.
K.
Posted by KathrynLex on February 1, 2004, at 15:50:27
In reply to hey ya'll, posted by sexylexy on February 1, 2004, at 14:37:19
Hi Lexy,
That's wonderful!!! I'm really glad to hear that you're feeling better.
K.
Posted by ajax on February 1, 2004, at 16:08:53
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
I'm a 36 year old male about to start Lexapro. Previous posts seem to say that it causes headaches, anxiety, and sexual side effects. I will be taking the drug together with regular shrink therapy (3+ days per week). Any suggestions, advice would be very appreciated. Ajax.
Posted by JonW on February 1, 2004, at 16:21:53
In reply to Feb 1 2004 - Ajax About to Start Lexapro, posted by ajax on February 1, 2004, at 16:08:53
> I'm a 36 year old male about to start Lexapro. Previous posts seem to say that it causes headaches, anxiety, and sexual side effects. I will be taking the drug together with regular shrink therapy (3+ days per week). Any suggestions, advice would be very appreciated. Ajax.
It's one of the few drugs I've been on where the side-effects actually do diminish with time. So in other words, be patient with the side-effects before giving up on it. I had anxiety, headache, trouble sleeping, and sex side-effects in the beginning. All of those are nearly non-existent now. I recently increased to 15mg, and some anxiety has returned but I expect this to get better before long. Good Luck! It's a great med!
Jon :)
Posted by Jayslace on February 1, 2004, at 16:27:28
In reply to Feb 1 2004 - Ajax About to Start Lexapro, posted by ajax on February 1, 2004, at 16:08:53
Hi and welcome. Please make sure read the posts I have on here. I have had no anxiety, headaches, or sexual side effects. I do have since increasing my Lex from 10mg to 20mg drowsiness (much better) and some jaw clenching(tolerable).
I have become so much more motivated it's incredible. I still have my good days and bad of course, but that's with all people.
I am having problems sleeping at night, that's been ever since my brain surgery. My neurologist has suggested Klonopin, since my Ambien wasn't touching me. I haven't found any info on whether that would be a good one so I called him Friday and told him go ahead and call it in. I'm desperate for a good nights sleep! Again, that's not from the Lex though.
Everybody has different side effect with medicine, but the outlook so far seems to be good.
I wish you nothing but good luck!!! I myself find Lex to be very good for me.
Ruthie
Posted by Jayslace on February 1, 2004, at 16:30:03
In reply to Re: hey ya'll, posted by KathrynLex on February 1, 2004, at 15:50:27
It sure is good to hear when someone is feeling better!! Keep it up!!!
Hugs to you all!!
Ruthie
Posted by KathrynLex on February 1, 2004, at 17:05:27
In reply to Feb 1 2004 - Ajax About to Start Lexapro, posted by ajax on February 1, 2004, at 16:08:53
Hi Ajax,
I've been on Lexapro for about 6 wks now and have had very positive results. It's really done wonders for my anxiety/depression and I'm quite grateful for that.
Before I suggest anything, I want to wish you luck with Lexapro. I hope you find some of the following advice useful.
1. If you're very sensitive to meds, start with a small dose such as 5 mg or 2.5 mg.
2. If you encounter some uncomfortable side effects remember that they are temporary. (Mine went away after 3-4 weeks.)
3. Lexapro can make some people a little more anxious than usual during the first few weeks that they take it. Lorazepam, Xanax or Klonopin can help with that.
4. Insomnia is something else you might experience during the first few weeks. A lot of people have found Tylenol PM or Benedryl to be a good over-the-counter option to help combat insomnia.
6. Be patient. For some people Lexapro takes a while to kick in. Give it at least 6 weeks before you give up on it. (But listen to your body. If the side effects are too intense, it may not be the right med for you.)
7. Come back to this message board. There are a lot of supportive people here who have been through what you're experiencing right now. Sometimes it just helps to know that you're not alone.
Remember that meds effect everyone differently, but I hope that Lexapro helps you through your difficulties.
K.
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