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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Journeyman on January 21, 2004, at 21:05:27
In reply to Re: Special EffectsRichard, posted by Steve3211 on January 21, 2004, at 16:41:14
Hi Steve,
Knock on wood, I've found 5 mg to be sufficient. It has really lightened the black, oppressive, cloudy heaviness that I had been feeling. It has somehow done this without inhibiting my ability to think clearly or feel a full emotional range. Far from being numbed, I'm much more able to focus on issues, people, and thoughts and enjoy them more. My stomach currently hurts, but it's because I spent so much time today laughing with my 2.5-year-old daughter.
You asked, "Did you find you lost weight at first?" If by at first, you meant when I was born, the answer is yes. Most babies lose a few ounces during their first week in the great outdoors. If, however, you meant since I began taking Lexapro, no. I have had neither loss of appetite nor loss of weight. I've gained quite a lot of weight, but I had been on an upward/outward trend for some time before I began taking Lex. Frankly, I'm not too concerned. I would much rather be a jolly Santa temporarily than an anorexic Grinch. Diet and exercise will deal with that over the longer term.
I've wondered about the whole buildup in the system idea. That's the only reason I could come up with for a return of the symptoms I'd experienced early on.
Re: your question about morning & appetite...I've found that my food yearnings are pretty consistent, it doesn't matter the time of day. I would fit into the eating regimen of a hobbit very well at the moment. Breakfast is still one of my three favorite meals (if you don't include snacks, elevenses, in-between meals, afternoon tea, etc.)
I'm hoping I can keep the dosage on the lower side by using it as a supplement to an otherwise healty lifestyle, which includes therapy, exercise, socialization, reading, etc.
Good luck with your own journey Steve - and if you're ever in the vicinity, let's do lunches.
Richard
Posted by KathrynLex on January 21, 2004, at 23:14:47
In reply to Lexoloading » Steve3211, posted by Journeyman on January 21, 2004, at 21:05:27
Lexoloading...is that like carbo loading? If carbs are your goal, Richard, you're on the right track with the Kripy Kremes.
K.
Posted by COOP on January 22, 2004, at 7:41:30
In reply to Re: scared and confused, posted by Mrs C. on January 21, 2004, at 15:31:11
Hi
Go to this sight for more information.
I am on the meds for 10 weeks, 20mg aday.
It took me 8 weeks before the meds worked.
Best og luck
Joel
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/anxiety/panicmenu.cfm
Posted by Mariposa on January 22, 2004, at 8:30:48
In reply to Lexoloading » Steve3211, posted by Journeyman on January 21, 2004, at 21:05:27
Hi Steve, just wanted to comment on this also.
My pdoc explained that Lex does take a while for your body to adjust. The liver makes enzymes that break down Lex. At first when you just start, the liver is producing at a lower rate. You keep taking the same dose, and the liver *ramps up* (his words) production until it can handle the Lex dose. That's when you start to feel like the med isn't working so well anymore. So you increase the dose of Lex and the liver goes through another adjustment, and on and on. I guess some peoples livers are more obstinate than others, thats why a 10mg dose will work for one person but another person needs 30mg.
Posted by poddy j. fries on January 22, 2004, at 9:23:13
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
Have developed gout since being on Lexapro 10mg.daily for past 3 months. Also, sweet foods taste very salty. Is this common? thanks.
Posted by BLKVETTES on January 22, 2004, at 10:39:19
In reply to Re: What and When of Lexapro, posted by LynneDa on January 21, 2004, at 16:59:41
> Hi Lexy - glad to hear you're singing again! In my opinion, I would say 8 weeks should be enough. That seems to be what most people have said - and it's what my p-doc recommended. BUT, that's not to say you won't continue improving at that same dosage after the 8-week mark!
>
> I guess that's not really an answer, is it?!?! Here's a more quantifiable one: I knew I was sliding at 8 weeks and had to do something because I felt anxious & angry, thought my obsessive thoughts and felt bad about myself for at least 2 periods per day for an entire week. I knew it wasn't just a bad day or even week cuz it felt out of my control to stop the feelings and anxiety. I couldn't brush them off.
>
> If you're in doubt, examine how you feel and then look at how you deal with those feelings. Are you able to push them off on your own? How often do you feel that way? Are there triggers that would be "normal" causes for you to feel that way or are they undefinable and even irrational (as mine usually were!)?
>
> Hope that helps! Have a good evening everyone!
> ~ LynneI think you explained that nicely!!!!!! I agree she hasnt got the full benefits of lexapro yet. But her singing is a good sign it may be working.
WAYNE
Posted by nicky847 on January 22, 2004, at 10:58:52
In reply to Re: What and When of Lexapro, posted by BLKVETTES on January 22, 2004, at 10:39:19
Lexy-
I have to say that I disagree when I read stuff about getting "the full benefits" of Lexapro or any other antidepressant after 8 weeks...having been on Celexa for a year and a half I think that 8 weeks is just the beginning of getting the full benefits..b/c at that point you begin to finally feel well enough to begin living your life again..and find new things that make you happy...i feel i continued to benefit from Celexa LONG after the 8 week mark..Remember anxiety and depression is a learned behavior..and it takes time to unlearn it..if you are treating it properly the longer you undergo treatment the further those learned behaviors fade..
> > Hi Lexy - glad to hear you're singing again! In my opinion, I would say 8 weeks should be enough. That seems to be what most people have said - and it's what my p-doc recommended. BUT, that's not to say you won't continue improving at that same dosage after the 8-week mark!
> >
> > I guess that's not really an answer, is it?!?! Here's a more quantifiable one: I knew I was sliding at 8 weeks and had to do something because I felt anxious & angry, thought my obsessive thoughts and felt bad about myself for at least 2 periods per day for an entire week. I knew it wasn't just a bad day or even week cuz it felt out of my control to stop the feelings and anxiety. I couldn't brush them off.
> >
> > If you're in doubt, examine how you feel and then look at how you deal with those feelings. Are you able to push them off on your own? How often do you feel that way? Are there triggers that would be "normal" causes for you to feel that way or are they undefinable and even irrational (as mine usually were!)?
> >
> > Hope that helps! Have a good evening everyone!
> > ~ Lynne
>
> I think you explained that nicely!!!!!! I agree she hasnt got the full benefits of lexapro yet. But her singing is a good sign it may be working.
> WAYNE
>
>
>
Posted by LynneDa on January 22, 2004, at 11:08:51
In reply to Re: What and When of Lexapro, posted by nicky847 on January 22, 2004, at 10:58:52
> Thanks for reminding me that depression/anxiety is a learned behavior as well as a chemically-perpetuated/reinforced one. I was in counseling for YEARS trying to unlearn some of my behaviors, without much success (& without meds). I realized I needed meds to get myself to a positive enough mind-set that I could work on my behaviors.
Now that I'm feeling better, I need to get back to the "work" side of it. It seems overwhelming to start digging into the why's and wherefore's of my damaging behaviors, but I guess it's time!
I guess the meds will make some of these behaviors fade, but aren't there some that need to be picked apart & consciously examined to delete them from our behavioral repertoires?
~ Lynne
Lexy-
> I have to say that I disagree when I read stuff about getting "the full benefits" of Lexapro or any other antidepressant after 8 weeks...having been on Celexa for a year and a half I think that 8 weeks is just the beginning of getting the full benefits..b/c at that point you begin to finally feel well enough to begin living your life again..and find new things that make you happy...i feel i continued to benefit from Celexa LONG after the 8 week mark..
>
> Remember anxiety and depression is a learned behavior..and it takes time to unlearn it..if you are treating it properly the longer you undergo treatment the further those learned behaviors fade..
>
> > > Hi Lexy - glad to hear you're singing again! In my opinion, I would say 8 weeks should be enough. That seems to be what most people have said - and it's what my p-doc recommended. BUT, that's not to say you won't continue improving at that same dosage after the 8-week mark!
> > >
> > > I guess that's not really an answer, is it?!?! Here's a more quantifiable one: I knew I was sliding at 8 weeks and had to do something because I felt anxious & angry, thought my obsessive thoughts and felt bad about myself for at least 2 periods per day for an entire week. I knew it wasn't just a bad day or even week cuz it felt out of my control to stop the feelings and anxiety. I couldn't brush them off.
> > >
> > > If you're in doubt, examine how you feel and then look at how you deal with those feelings. Are you able to push them off on your own? How often do you feel that way? Are there triggers that would be "normal" causes for you to feel that way or are they undefinable and even irrational (as mine usually were!)?
> > >
> > > Hope that helps! Have a good evening everyone!
> > > ~ Lynne
> >
> > I think you explained that nicely!!!!!! I agree she hasnt got the full benefits of lexapro yet. But her singing is a good sign it may be working.
> > WAYNE
> >
> >
> >
>
>
Posted by gaza on January 22, 2004, at 12:07:07
In reply to Re: What and When of Lexapro » nicky847, posted by LynneDa on January 22, 2004, at 11:08:51
Lynne, you keep posting things I answer to.
I'm thinking I need lex to feel good enough to work on changing my attitudes / focuses, etc. When I'm down, I just can't do it, seems no matter how much I want to.Have you started that process? If so, is it working?
>
> Now that I'm feeling better, I need to get back to the "work" side of it. It seems overwhelming to start digging into the why's and wherefore's of my damaging behaviors, but I guess it's time!
>
> I guess the meds will make some of these behaviors fade, but aren't there some that need to be picked apart & consciously examined to delete them from our behavioral repertoires?
> ~ Lynne
>
Posted by LynneDa on January 22, 2004, at 12:20:28
In reply to Re: What and When of Lexapro, posted by gaza on January 22, 2004, at 12:07:07
Gaza - thanks for continuing to answer!
I haven't started yet, I just need to pick up the phone and call my therapist. I haven't seen her yet this month. I wanted to let my new dosage take effect (I upped from 10mg to 20mg on 12/26). I think I'm a little more clear on the direction I need to head. I'm divorced and my ex is in a bad way, mental-health-wise, so most of my therapy in the past focused on dealing with the effect his behaviors had on me.I'm re-married now. My current therapist mainly focused on how to do damage control for my current marriage - due to my anger, anxiety and other yuck-o behaviors! This was before I agreed to go on meds. So, it's a new world and I will keep you posted :-).
Thanks for your support!
~ LynneLynne, you keep posting things I answer to.
> I'm thinking I need lex to feel good enough to work on changing my attitudes / focuses, etc. When I'm down, I just can't do it, seems no matter how much I want to.
>
> Have you started that process? If so, is it working?
>
> >
> > Now that I'm feeling better, I need to get back to the "work" side of it. It seems overwhelming to start digging into the why's and wherefore's of my damaging behaviors, but I guess it's time!
> >
> > I guess the meds will make some of these behaviors fade, but aren't there some that need to be picked apart & consciously examined to delete them from our behavioral repertoires?
> > ~ Lynne
> >
>
Posted by tiredman on January 22, 2004, at 12:29:07
In reply to Re: Mariposer- Re: Getting desperate. What's the max l » tiredman, posted by Mariposa on January 21, 2004, at 18:22:36
I guess I didn't make it clear what she had said. She said that SHE did not have
any patients taking more then 20mg. She was willing to up me to 25mg with the
possibility of going to 30. But 30 is the limit.I'm strange in that when I fell better, it's only for a week or so (not months)
so lex really may not be the right med for me.Thanks for your input!
Posted by KathrynLex on January 22, 2004, at 13:03:24
In reply to Re: gout as side effect Lexapro?, posted by poddy j. fries on January 22, 2004, at 9:23:13
Hi Poddy,
Lexapro can definately effect your taste buds. Water has a new flavor for me since I started on lex. It's an odd side effect, but not unheard of.
K.
Posted by KathrynLex on January 22, 2004, at 13:06:04
In reply to Re: Mariposer- Re: Getting desperate. What's the m, posted by tiredman on January 22, 2004, at 12:29:07
Hi Tieredman,
I've heard that there are meds you can take with lex that increase it's effectiveness. You might bring it up with your pdoc and see what she says.
K.
Posted by gaza on January 22, 2004, at 13:32:02
In reply to Re: Mariposer- Re: Getting desperate. What's the m, posted by KathrynLex on January 22, 2004, at 13:06:04
Huh? What meds increase lex's effectiveness??
> Hi Tieredman,
>
> I've heard that there are meds you can take with lex that increase it's effectiveness. You might bring it up with your pdoc and see what she says.
>
> K.
Posted by KathrynLex on January 22, 2004, at 13:54:20
In reply to Re: Mariposer- Re: Getting desperate. What's the m, posted by gaza on January 22, 2004, at 13:32:02
Hi Gaza,
I'm not sure which drugs they are. When I discussed my fear of lex "poop-out" with my pdoc he said there were meds that can be added to lex to make it more effective. It hasn't come up again since the 10 mg I'm on is working fine. (knock on wood)
Has anyone else heard of combining other meds with lexapro to increase its potency?
K.
Posted by gaza on January 22, 2004, at 14:07:44
In reply to Re: Mariposer- Re: Getting desperate. What's the m, posted by KathrynLex on January 22, 2004, at 13:54:20
When will you be going back to your pdoc?
Can you ask him what those meds were?
Thanks.> Hi Gaza,
>
> I'm not sure which drugs they are. When I discussed my fear of lex "poop-out" with my pdoc he said there were meds that can be added to lex to make it more effective. It hasn't come up again since the 10 mg I'm on is working fine. (knock on wood)
>
> Has anyone else heard of combining other meds with lexapro to increase its potency?
>
> K.
Posted by Steve3211 on January 22, 2004, at 14:29:49
In reply to Lexoloading » Steve3211, posted by Journeyman on January 21, 2004, at 21:05:27
> Hi Steve,
>
> Knock on wood, I've found 5 mg to be sufficient. It has really lightened the black, oppressive, cloudy heaviness that I had been feeling. It has somehow done this without inhibiting my ability to think clearly or feel a full emotional range. Far from being numbed, I'm much more able to focus on issues, people, and thoughts and enjoy them more. My stomach currently hurts, but it's because I spent so much time today laughing with my 2.5-year-old daughter.
>
> You asked, "Did you find you lost weight at first?" If by at first, you meant when I was born, the answer is yes. Most babies lose a few ounces during their first week in the great outdoors. If, however, you meant since I began taking Lexapro, no. I have had neither loss of appetite nor loss of weight. I've gained quite a lot of weight, but I had been on an upward/outward trend for some time before I began taking Lex. Frankly, I'm not too concerned. I would much rather be a jolly Santa temporarily than an anorexic Grinch. Diet and exercise will deal with that over the longer term.
>
> I've wondered about the whole buildup in the system idea. That's the only reason I could come up with for a return of the symptoms I'd experienced early on.
>
> Re: your question about morning & appetite...I've found that my food yearnings are pretty consistent, it doesn't matter the time of day. I would fit into the eating regimen of a hobbit very well at the moment. Breakfast is still one of my three favorite meals (if you don't include snacks, elevenses, in-between meals, afternoon tea, etc.)
>
> I'm hoping I can keep the dosage on the lower side by using it as a supplement to an otherwise healty lifestyle, which includes therapy, exercise, socialization, reading, etc.
>
> Good luck with your own journey Steve - and if you're ever in the vicinity, let's do lunches.
>
> RichardRichard
Thanks for the great info. I am hoping 5 mgs is good for me too. I think my doc is going to be po'ed with me though. Will let you know how I progress. Best-Steve
Posted by Mrs C. on January 22, 2004, at 14:33:45
In reply to Re: scared and confused, posted by Gaza on January 21, 2004, at 15:51:26
I'm so glad you finally got help. Continued good luck to you and I'm sure we'll keep in touch through this board. Have a great day! Mrs. C
Posted by Steve3211 on January 22, 2004, at 14:37:03
In reply to Re: Lexoloading, posted by Mariposa on January 22, 2004, at 8:30:48
> Hi Steve, just wanted to comment on this also.
>
> My pdoc explained that Lex does take a while for your body to adjust. The liver makes enzymes that break down Lex. At first when you just start, the liver is producing at a lower rate. You keep taking the same dose, and the liver *ramps up* (his words) production until it can handle the Lex dose. That's when you start to feel like the med isn't working so well anymore. So you increase the dose of Lex and the liver goes through another adjustment, and on and on. I guess some peoples livers are more obstinate than others, thats why a 10mg dose will work for one person but another person needs 30mg.Thanks Mariposa,
Isn't the goal however to find a dosage that sticks. We can't just go on increasing dosage every couple of months. How are you doing? Best-Steve
Posted by Mrs C. on January 22, 2004, at 14:37:18
In reply to What and When of Lexapro, posted by sexylexy on January 21, 2004, at 16:50:49
Lexy, It was about eight weeks for me before I really began to feel the full effects. My anxiety and depression lifted after about 4 weeks but I only started to feel "great" several weeks later. Give it some more time. Mrs. C
Posted by Mrs C. on January 22, 2004, at 14:45:36
In reply to Lexoloading » Steve3211, posted by Journeyman on January 21, 2004, at 21:05:27
Richard, I would agree that 5mgs seem to be enough for you! You are totally cracking me up daily. I could use a little help today, it hasn't been a good one. Some of those old worries about my health creeping into my brain. Hope it's just temporary and related to my...sorry, female issues...monthly cycle. Anyway talking to all of you makes me feel so much stronger. Thanks everyone! Mrs. C
Posted by SJ on January 22, 2004, at 15:00:51
In reply to scared and confused, posted by Yogi on January 21, 2004, at 5:37:00
One of the hardest decisions I had to make was whether or not to start my 10 year old daughter on Lexapro. We started her on 5 mg and then 4 days later bumped her to 10mg. She had a few weeks where she was sick to her stomach and complained of headaches, but that seems to have stopped. She also seemed jumpy. But, she felt almost immediate relief from most of the anxiety and thanks us every day for helping her and putting her on medication. She has a long road ahead of her. I look at his board often while thinking of my daugther and take the suggestions, advice, and messages of hope and store them for our future use. I hope your results are as positive as ours have been. She's been able to get back to living her life. I'll put you, along with all others hereon the board, in my prayers.
Posted by Mrs C. on January 22, 2004, at 15:09:03
In reply to Re: scared and confused, posted by SJ on January 22, 2004, at 15:00:51
SJ, your message really touched me. Do be experiencing those feelings at such a young age must have been so difficult for your daughter as well as you. Thank goodness she has such a great Mom who recognized a problem and is getting help for her child. God bless you and your family and I hope for continued success for your daughter. Keep us "posted" ( a little board humor). Mrs. C
Posted by LynneDa on January 22, 2004, at 15:16:12
In reply to Re: scared and confused, posted by SJ on January 22, 2004, at 15:00:51
SJ - Thanks for posting about your daughter. My sister went through the same thing with her 9 year old last year and it was indeed an agonizing decision!
There are several older teens who post to this board who are afraid their parents won't understand, so don't go to them about their emotional/mental health issues. Bravo to you for advocating and supporting your little girl! Our kids are so precious! Good luck & God Bless!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
One of the hardest decisions I had to make was whether or not to start my 10 year old daughter on Lexapro. We started her on 5 mg and then 4 days later bumped her to 10mg. She had a few weeks where she was sick to her stomach and complained of headaches, but that seems to have stopped. She also seemed jumpy. But, she felt almost immediate relief from most of the anxiety and thanks us every day for helping her and putting her on medication. She has a long road ahead of her. I look at his board often while thinking of my daugther and take the suggestions, advice, and messages of hope and store them for our future use. I hope your results are as positive as ours have been. She's been able to get back to living her life. I'll put you, along with all others hereon the board, in my prayers.
Posted by KathrynLex on January 22, 2004, at 15:21:34
In reply to Re: Lexoloading, posted by Mrs C. on January 22, 2004, at 14:45:36
Hi Mrs. C,
I might have mentioned this to you before, but like you, I have a bit of trouble with my anxiety/depression increasing around the time of my period. Chances are very high that what you're experiencing is temporary and you will feel better soon.
Do me a favor and go do something nice for yourself. It takes a lot of personal strength to combat mental illness, and you have done an impressive job of that. Not only do you deal with your own issues, but you help other people cope with theirs. For that, I think you should reward yourself. (It might also distract you from worrying about health issues.)
I wish you the very best, and hope you are feeling better soon.
K.
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