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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Mrs. C on June 1, 2004, at 20:44:30
In reply to Re: Lexapro and the pill, posted by watergirl on June 1, 2004, at 12:15:51
Good luck Cindy. I know that many people on this board have experienced increased depression because of birth control pills. I hope that it helps you to give them up. By the way, make sure to use something else for protection or you may have another problem (diapers, bottles, you get my meaning). Mrs. C
Posted by BLKVETTES on June 3, 2004, at 2:13:48
In reply to How to lessen Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms!, posted by RedHeadRed on June 1, 2004, at 0:46:40
> I just went through the Effexor weaning process, as per my Doctor's instructions (slowly decreasing the dosage each week).
>
> The following is advice to people getting close to their last week on Effexor:
>
> -Try to get a week off of work following the last day you take a dose of Effexor.. you WILL need it and won't be able to function.
>
> -Drink lots and lots of water (non-stop, you should always have a glass of water with you.. if you get sick of drinking like I did, add some lemon juice to your glass.. it was a big help).
>
> -Inform all family members and friends.. if they cross your path, they may not like what you have to say.. :)
>
> -Close all blinds/drapes in your house. You will want it very dark.. and preferably very cool. The darkness helped me with the brain zaps.
>
> -Take two baths a day.. long long baths, very warm water. Pour plenty of Epson salt into the bath. This helps to draw out impurties and toxins from the skin. Light a candle. Put a towel under your head and soak for at least 20 minutes. Then using a washcloth or a bath brush.. start at the soles of your feet and thoroughly rub your skin to release toxins from your pores.
>
> -Try to find some source of "white noise," such as a fan or airconditioner.. anything with a constant whooshing noise.. helps with brain zaps and dizziness.
>
> -Keep TV volume, music volume.. or whatever, very low. Loud sounds are very instrusive.
>
> -Take 2 to 3 benedryl a day. This REALLY helped me with the diziness/wooziness.
>
> -Relaxing activites, such as watching TV or browsing the internet. I had trouble reading a book for long periods of time. Oh yeah.. when you watch TV.. DO NOT watch anything violent. Try to find neutral or relaxing TV shows or movies (horror flicks, violence, etc. will have a very powerful effect on your during this time.. I am not sure how? Can someone explain?)
>
> -Hit the grocery store and buy plenty of warm, harty foods.. if you are in the mood to eat, you will want something you can snuggle up with.
>
> -Sleep.. sleep.. sleep. Make your bed up very comfy.. lots of soft pillows and such.. you will be spending a lot of time there.
>
> -YOGA! Very relaxing on your system.. avoid positions where you may put your head upside down.. you'll feel sick when you come back to standing.
>
> -Be sure to take your daily vitamins.. also you may wish to include some essential fatty oils. Also take metamucil.. good for digestion and helps to absorb and remove toxins from the system.
>
> -*This tip is a little crazy, but it really seemed to help.. * Buy Aztec Healing Clay from your nature food store and mix with equal parts of Apple Cider Vinegar. Stand in the bathtub and cover yourself with the clay. Wait till dry and rinse off. Again, this helps to remove impurties and toxins from the skin.. our largest organ.
>
> --------
>
> Coming off of Effexor was one of the more challenging things I have ever had to do in my life. I did not feel like myself.. and I felt so sensitive to everything in my environment (almost like an extremely bad hangover). I experienced brain zaps from hell.. I felt like my brain was always two steps behind my body. I had a bit of indigestion.. I felt whoosy and sick to my tummy. All in all it was complete hell, and took a lot of will power to prevent myself from taking another pill to get rid of the symptoms.
>
> Just remember to stay strong.. you CAN do it. Just ensure your environment is dark, cool and quiet.
>
> The worst of the symptoms happened around noon on day two and continued till day four morning.. this is when the symptoms began to lessen. It took about 6 days to get completely back to normal.
>
> This was last week.. I am on day nine now.. I feel almost 100% except that I am a bit more tired then normal.. and every few hours I get a few mild brain zaps.
>
> I can't believe I was on a drug that was this strong.. and effected my body the way that it did.. wow. Next time, I will be sure to research a drug that is prescribed to me BEFORE I begin taking it.. I am so relieved I am off of this drug..
>
> I took the time to write this post and share my tips, because I know what sheer HELL Effexor withdrawal is.. I wish the best of luck -- if you are getting ready to come off of Effexor!
>
> Remember to use boards like this.. even just to read.. I found the support incredibly helpful.
>
>
> **If anyone else has tips.. please feel free to share!Sounds like you came off the effexor just a bit fast, especially since your still having brain zaps. Also you can get the same withdrawal symptoms coming off of wellbutrin.
Posted by ramsea on June 3, 2004, at 3:26:42
In reply to Re: How to lessen Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms!, posted by BLKVETTES on June 3, 2004, at 2:13:48
Im sorry if someone already said this. Prozac is being promoted by companies and pdocs as a way to withdraw rom Effexor less sickeningly. Then the Prozac will be discontinued properly. It seems this method cuts down on the horrible stuff described above. By the way. What a fantastic list of ways to take care of oneself! Makes me want to withdraw just to do all those wonderful things. Someone sure does know how to soothe the troubled mind. Thanks for sharing your list. Glad you are feeling better.
Posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 12:36:24
In reply to RE::: hello everyone, posted by Mariposa on May 31, 2004, at 13:09:21
Hey all, on day 4 of Lex, and ready to self-destruct! I was actually on Lex for a couple of months; I was on Paxil for about a year and a half, up to CR 25 mg for depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, and wanted to quit. I switched to Lexapro, mainly to help with the horrible withdrawal I was going through, but I stayed on it a couple of months before deciding to see if I could handle myself without meds. VERY bad timing, as I am going through a very stressful divorce, which just now started to get messy -- I left my husband last summer due to physical/emotional abuse, and general incompatability. I wound up running across the country, and I now have a new job, new home, new life, new love...new everything. I don't want to be on meds, but at this point in time, I don't know what else to do. I have yet to find a pdoc that can work with my 8-5 work schedule, but I have a gp that I see every now and then; she helped me wean off of Paxil with the Lexapro. I didn't have severe side effects then, but maybe I just couldn't tell with the Paxil withdrawal, or maybe it the side effects weren't so bad b/c I was already on a medication. Well, after a few months of no meds, I'm starting from square one. Yesterday morning, I woke up in such a panic, I had no idea what to do. I'd never felt anything like it, and I've had panic attacks before. I was a wreck most of the day, although I felt better in the afternoon. (I take the meds about 10:00-11:00 in the morning.) I went to my salsa dance class with my boyfriend (I don't know what I'd do without him!), and felt great that evening. Had my appetite back and everything. But then I went to bed, and I woke up at 1:00 a.m. in a total panic, and then I was up at 5:30 completely panicked. I almost called in to work so I could get a walk-in for my gp; my appt is on Monday. I started taking 10 mg on Monday, but was too agitated, and cut back to 5 mg yesterday for day 3. Fortunately, I work in a mental health clinic, so I have support here if I need it, although I feel weird going to my coworkers with stuff like this. Today I'm all weepy and tense, even after taking .25 clonazepam. I'm beginning to wonder if this is worth it! Sorry for the long post...just need to let it out.
Posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 13:48:28
In reply to New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 12:36:24
Hi Tweek and welcome! The long post is fine!
I've been on Lex for about 7 months. The first 2 or even 3 weeks were tough, but I've found it to be worth it. My depression is much more under control and my mini-anxiety attacks are few and far between. I had a variety of s/e's at first and some that are still lingering. I've not had the panic attacks as you describe, although I have heard others mention them. If they are something completely new for you, I would recommend talking to your gp about it, pronto - I would call and not wait til next Monday.
Remember, your body's still adjusting and who knows what it will have to go through before it gets used to the chemicals! Maybe increase your clonazepam for this initial time period. Just try to ride it out and remember it's just the meds talking, not the real you! Keep writing, there are many very knowledgeable people on this board and I know they will all share their experiences with you!
~ Lynne
Posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 16:23:35
In reply to Re: New Lex user » Tweek, posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 13:48:28
>
> Remember, your body's still adjusting and who knows what it will have to go through before it gets used to the chemicals! Maybe increase your clonazepam for this initial time period. Just try to ride it out and remember it's just the meds talking, not the real you! Keep writing, there are many very knowledgeable people on this board and I know they will all share their experiences with you!
> ~ Lynne
>I'm actually considering just dropping the Lex and just taking the clonazepam when I need it... I'm still using a bottle that I was prescribed from Nov 2002! That's how infrequently I take them. Or was taking them...I was on .5 mg nightly for 3 months when I first started taking Paxil, and then weaned off them pretty easily. Right now, I'm just feeling between depressed and flat, and it's enough that I'm ready to just stop taking the Lex. I was weepy throughout the morning at work, finally now not crying, but still pretty bad, no mental energy. I've been reading this board throughout the week, and you all have given me a lot of inspiration, even with my reluctance to go back on the meds. I'm wondering if I should pull off until my appt Monday, or just sit tight on the 5 mg a day? *sigh*
Posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 16:31:52
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 16:23:35
> Well, I'm not a doctor, but if you feel you can get through your panic attacks, I would stay on it. I'm afraid you might freak your body out even more if you suddenly stop the Lex. I was a bit of a mess the first week or so on Lex. I wish I would have taken the week off work!
I would also be sure and keep your other med handy. Did you sleep okay besides waking up with a panic attack? Maybe take something to make you sleep through it all (like Benadryl, I mean!). It's a shame we have to take drugs to get us on and off other drugs. I'm sure there's a better way to do it, I just don't know what it is :-). BUT if depression is hurting you, the struggle to get your brain chemistry on the right track just may be worth it!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I'm actually considering just dropping the Lex and just taking the clonazepam when I need it... I'm still using a bottle that I was prescribed from Nov 2002! That's how infrequently I take them. Or was taking them...I was on .5 mg nightly for 3 months when I first started taking Paxil, and then weaned off them pretty easily. Right now, I'm just feeling between depressed and flat, and it's enough that I'm ready to just stop taking the Lex. I was weepy throughout the morning at work, finally now not crying, but still pretty bad, no mental energy. I've been reading this board throughout the week, and you all have given me a lot of inspiration, even with my reluctance to go back on the meds. I'm wondering if I should pull off until my appt Monday, or just sit tight on the 5 mg a day? *sigh*
Posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 16:59:58
In reply to Re: New Lex user » Tweek, posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 16:31:52
The problem is, these panic attacks just feel different from "regular" ones. I haven't had panic attacks in a long time, but the stress from the stuff I'm going through now has been making my anxiety and depression go through the roof! Fortunately, I have 2 nurses in my office, and I was advised to maybe drop down to 2.5 mg until I could get to my doctor, then see what happens then. I guess I can handle that, but it's still tempting just to drop altogether! Grrr...
> > Well, I'm not a doctor, but if you feel you can get through your panic attacks, I would stay on it. I'm afraid you might freak your body out even more if you suddenly stop the Lex. I was a bit of a mess the first week or so on Lex. I wish I would have taken the week off work!
>
> I would also be sure and keep your other med handy. Did you sleep okay besides waking up with a panic attack? Maybe take something to make you sleep through it all (like Benadryl, I mean!). It's a shame we have to take drugs to get us on and off other drugs. I'm sure there's a better way to do it, I just don't know what it is :-). BUT if depression is hurting you, the struggle to get your brain chemistry on the right track just may be worth it!
> ~ Lynne
> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>
>
Posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 17:07:16
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 16:59:58
I'm glad you talked to the nurses! I know how horrible a bad divorce can be. You're in unfamiliar territory, you're not in full control of what's going to happen, lots of uncertainties amidst emotionally-charged conversations & decisions. This situation can cause all sorts of anxiety. That's normal!! You'll get through all of this, I promise :-)
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Posted by mystic on June 4, 2004, at 7:38:57
In reply to Re: New Lex user » Tweek, posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 17:07:16
Tweek..Welcome to the posts...we are all here for you...ups and downs..we take it all..and we give it all.!!!...Ive been on 15mgs of lex for 3 weeks and was on 10mgs for 14 weeks..I still have my ups and downs..I just want to feel normal again or somewhat normal..I hope that you have luck with the meds as it makes life bareable..Please keep posting and it helps to have other peoples experiences..again welcome Mystic
Posted by BTR on June 4, 2004, at 9:58:22
In reply to New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 12:36:24
Tweek,
I have been on Lex for almost 5 weeks. The first 2-3 weeks I was a zombie. Like you I had no mental energy and it was a fight to stay awake throughout the day. I started at 10 mg's/day and am now up to 20 mg a day where I am going to stay to see if this is the right dosage or not. I deal with the same things as you..depression, panic attacks, etc. When I first started taking the Lex my pdoc had me on .75-1.0 mg daily of Klonopin to help with the anxiety which will accompany the start of a new anti-depressant with those of us who are prone to panic attacks.
My advice is to stay on the Lex it WILL get better and to increase your klonopin during the first 2-3 weeks to help with the initial anxiety. Your anxiety should lessen as your body adapts to the Lex. Hope this helps.
I am still not where I want to be but I feel like I am getting better by the day. Take care.
Posted by Tweek on June 4, 2004, at 10:48:22
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by BTR on June 4, 2004, at 9:58:22
I'm trying to have patience with these s/e's, but it's just so difficult! Last night, my boyfriend and I were at a friend's house for gaming, as we always are on Thursday nights. Normally we're there from about 7:45-11:30. By the time 9:00 came around, I was already a wreck. Couldn't stay awake, feeling very unstable. I finally gave up, and went to sleep on the couch; a very restless sleep. I think the worst part of it all is the unstable feeling. Very shaky on the ride home, took .25 clonazepam before bed so I wouldn't wake up and freak out. Fortunately, no panic attacks, but I still woke up in the morning feeling very, well, unstable. Considering skipping dosages until I get to my doctor on Monday afternoon... Supposed to go out tonight to see the new Harry Potter movie, and I don't want to be a wreck for that, either.
Posted by mystic on June 4, 2004, at 12:29:08
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by BTR on June 4, 2004, at 9:58:22
Hey Tweek...I felt the same way I was a nervous wreck thought I was going to jump out of my skin..My dr told me to take the xanax every 4 hours to offset that...It is going to make you very very racy and feel like you are jumping out of your skin a little different than anxiety but it will subside I promise...You just have to give it time and take one day at a time..Realize that every day is one day closer to feeling better and that will help it helped me...Keep posting we are here for you...your friend Mystic
Posted by Tweek on June 4, 2004, at 16:11:11
In reply to RE::: Tweek, posted by mystic on June 4, 2004, at 12:29:08
Well, I've been debating, and I think I'm going to hold off taking the Lex until I can get to my doctor on Monday. I'm actually feeling pretty good this afternoon, although I doubt the Lex is working that fast. My doc will probably just start me off on 2.5, which I could probably do myself, but I'd like to see what she thinks. *sigh* So confused.... lol
Posted by Mrs. C on June 5, 2004, at 18:52:23
In reply to Re: How to lessen Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms!, posted by ramsea on June 3, 2004, at 3:26:42
What is Effexor used for? Is it an SSRI. Does it go by any other name? Just wondering so that I will never use it. Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs. C on June 5, 2004, at 18:55:43
In reply to New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 12:36:24
Hey Tweek, Hang in there. I too felt extreme aggitation with Lexapro the first few weeks. I was very afraid that I had a nervous system problem. Once I found this sight and leared that many others experience this s/e it made it less scarey and more manageable. You have come to the right place for support. Good luck to you. Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs. C on June 5, 2004, at 18:58:07
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 16:23:35
Don't stop taking the Lexapro. You will feel so much better in a few weeks if you can just hang in there. It's hard I know but we will support you. Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs. C on June 5, 2004, at 19:03:39
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by BTR on June 4, 2004, at 9:58:22
Hi BTR, nice to have you here. I have been on Lex for about nine months now. About two months on 20mgs. I am doing pretty well and working on some of my issues in therapy. What brings you to this site? Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs. C on June 5, 2004, at 19:05:58
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 4, 2004, at 10:48:22
We veteran lex users call that feeling "wired but tired". I know it well and it sucks. I am sorry that you are experiencing that. I also had some pretty weird feelings in my jaw. Almost like my teeth were chattering but they weren't. It passes after about a week and by week two it should be gone. I will be praying for you. Mrs. C
Posted by Tweek on June 6, 2004, at 13:37:32
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Mrs. C on June 5, 2004, at 18:58:07
> Don't stop taking the Lexapro. You will feel so much better in a few weeks if you can just hang in there. It's hard I know but we will support you. Mrs. C
Thank you, I really appreciate it. I guess my biggest problem is, I just feel so guilty for having to take medication to be "normal." I just want to be able to take care of myself without having to have a chemical do it for me. I hope I'm not offending anyone; I just feel ashamed of myself. I was on meds for over a year, and it didn't bother me before, but now that I'm starting a "new" life, it just makes it so hard to deal with. Fortunately, I'm going to see my gp tomorrow, and maybe she can recommend a good therapist who can help me with my millions of issues, and maybe help me accept the meds again.
Posted by aspensm0mmy on June 6, 2004, at 15:53:18
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 6, 2004, at 13:37:32
Hi!!
I have to say that if I had cancer, I would not feel guilty about using any form of treatment to combat the illness. I look at using SSRI's the same way. "Normal" is a point of view. I am normal. In fact, more people go untreated of mental illness/depression in the US than in any other country because we have such hang-ups about taking meds to relieve ourselves of suffering! I hope that I have not offended anyone but I just had to drop my 2 cents!
I have been taking Lex for almost 2 months and I feel great! I love it! I wish that I had started out with Lex and avoided all of the issues that I put myself and my family thru.
Here's to hoping you can come to terms with the meds!!
((Vibes))
Brook
Posted by Mrs. C on June 6, 2004, at 20:47:20
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 6, 2004, at 13:37:32
Hi Tweek, not to worry about offending anyone here. You are just saying what is on your mind and noone will judge you for it. We all understand. Just remember that you have a chemical inbalance. It is just like a physical illness and you would not feel ashamed to take medication for that would you? It is not your fault and you should be proud of yourself for being pro-active in trying to get better. I think a therapist is a good idea. Most of us on this board have one. I just started to see one about 3 months ago and have found it to be very useful in figuring out why I do the things I do. Good luck, Mrs. C
Posted by Anjul on June 7, 2004, at 6:47:52
In reply to Re: New Lex user » Tweek, posted by aspensm0mmy on June 6, 2004, at 15:53:18
Hi, Tweek! I have been on 10 Lex since October and feel so much better!!!! I had those same bad feelings you spoke of, but they were about my uncontrollable anxiety (terror) and depression. I am so glad that I can take a pill and not feel like a psycho!!! I'll take feeling (somewhat) normal ; - )
any way I can. I agree with the poster who said she wished she'd started earlier and spared her self and family. HAng in there! Anjul
Posted by bride2be on June 7, 2004, at 19:07:16
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 6, 2004, at 13:37:32
i have been on lex for about 4 months. it was really bad the first couple of weeks, it will be better. this website was the only thing that made me not want to quit taking it. good luck and it will better before you know it
Posted by Tweek on June 7, 2004, at 19:33:21
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by bride2be on June 7, 2004, at 19:07:16
Hmm...not sure if my post got thru... But in case it didn't, here's a recap:
I just got back from the doctor, and I'm giving the Lexapro another shot. 5 mg, and I'm going to stay at that for another 3-4 weeks. I'm also starting therapy next week, and I'm really looking forward to that. Anyway, my doctor made a suggestion that I'm a bit curious about. She suggested switching from Lex to Celexa, as Celexa shouldn't cause the jitteriness and has an easier withdrawal period. Can anyone shed some light on this situation? What is the real difference between the two? And would taking the Lexapro at night maybe lessen the side effects?
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