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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by KathrynLex on January 28, 2004, at 11:08:08
In reply to YUCKKKKKKKKK, posted by sexylexy on January 27, 2004, at 20:21:35
Hi Lexy,
How are you feeling today? I'm sorry I couldn't write sooner.
I felt horrible yesterday and found myself taking a 3 hour bubble bath while reading nothing but back issues of US Weekly and People (quality literature)! Today is better though, my head feels clearer than it has in quite a while.
I really wish I could tell you "Just hang in there until day 40 and I promise you, you'll feel like your old self that morning and forever after." Waiting is one of the most frustrating things on lex.
But I thought of something yesterday...you know the lex is working because it's brought you back to 70% of your old self. Don't think about what you want it to do, think about what it has done. It's brought you this far, and it will bring you the rest of the way!
It's not too much to ask to want to feel like your old self again. Happiness and confidence is not too tall of an order...it will just take some time. You don't have to hang on much longer and remember that we're all in this with you!
K.
Posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:09:54
In reply to It gets better!, posted by Gator on January 28, 2004, at 10:29:26
Thanks Gator!
I am hoping that this is just a transition. I actually went home this past weekend and spent a good weekend with my boyfriend and family. Our relationship was better than it had been in about 2 months and at home I was almost *happy*, now I am back in the north, freezing and alone. Oh well only 3 more months. Thanks for the support and here is a hug back ((((Gator)))).
Lexy
Posted by KathrynLex on January 28, 2004, at 11:11:58
In reply to Re: Kathrynlex, posted by Mrs C. on January 28, 2004, at 9:04:48
Thank you so much to everyone who responded! Your support is invaluable. Some days it's the only thing that helps me to keep my sanity. You guys are all wonderful!!!
K.
Posted by LynneDa on January 28, 2004, at 11:13:45
In reply to Re: YUCKKKKKKKKK, posted by KathrynLex on January 28, 2004, at 11:08:08
Hi all - I took 2 pills today by accident. I haven't been consistent with what time I take my Lex - usually between 9:30 & 11am. I took it earlier and then took another one cuz I forgot. I can't believe I was that spacey. Anyway, that's 40mg. Do I need to be worried? Has anyone done that? I'm at work, so I told my boss just in case there was a weird reaction!!
Thanks all . . .
~ Lynne
Posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:16:41
In reply to Re: Ladies on lex. please respond! FEELING HORRIBL, posted by KathrynLex on January 27, 2004, at 16:35:29
Hey girl,
I know how it is to feel terrible around that time of the month. For me I am angry at everyone, then crying then the next second happy. I feel like someone has crossed some wires in my brain.
Hold on, so many people on this board are feeling really good and lexapro is supposed to be good for PMDD so hopefully in the next few months we all will be feeling better.
As to the sucicide feelings, if you are serious about that you need to call a crisis center ASAP. Do not make a perment solution to a tempoary problem. Use us for support and let us know how you are doing.
Good Luck and God bless,
Lexy
Posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:19:40
In reply to Re: Brand New Lexapro User, posted by ednababish on January 28, 2004, at 10:41:30
Hey Ya'll,
Would you all mind just writing a quick reply to let me know what dose you are on and when you started feeling "normal" again. I have decided to stay on 10mg for 9 or 10 weeks before switching but I am curious about ya'lls experiences.
Thanks!
Lexy
Posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:26:14
In reply to Re: YUCKKKKKKKKK, posted by KathrynLex on January 28, 2004, at 11:08:08
K~
Thanks for writing you have been a great support. And yes I too am addicted to US weekly and People so please feel no shame!
I am still feeling pretty down today. I started spotting so hopefully some of its hormonal and will come and go.
I know the lex has done pretty well for me but like you, I am feeling really frusterated. I just want myself back.
Glad you are feeling a little bit better and your head is clear. My focus and concentration is also improving a lot, I am staying on task in school and work a lot better (which is pretty good because I am a masters student working in a college counseling center!)
Keep in touch and let me know how you are feeling. I say when we are happy again we have a big e-party!
Good Luck!
Lexy
Posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:29:48
In reply to Whoa! Took double dose by accident!, posted by LynneDa on January 28, 2004, at 11:13:45
Hey LynneDa
I think you should be fine. You may have some side effects that will be YUCK but I read on the lexapro website that people have tried to kill themselves on 600mg and still lived (after a quick to the hospital) so I think 40 should not send you to a hospital but may make your remember to take your pill at a consistent time. Good luck and thanks for all your wonderful support and sanity!
Lexy
Posted by LynneDa on January 28, 2004, at 11:36:25
In reply to Re: Whoa! Took double dose by accident!, posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:29:48
Thanks Lexy - I'm just starting to feel sleepy and a bit nauseous so I'm eating Saltines :-)
You sound like you're feeling a bit better today. It also sounds like you have a light at the end of your tunnel - being done in 3 months. My husband just graduated from a very tough MBA program that took 2 years. We were married in the middle of it. Talk about depression, agony, etc., I can relate to some of your woes after experiencing his program vicarously! And for you to do it away from your loved ones, that takes a lot of strength and determination . . . you should be really proud of yourself!!
Hope you have a wonderful rest of the day and thanks again :-)
~ Lynne
Posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:42:01
In reply to dosages?, posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:19:40
Hey Ya'll
I just read a post that said someone had gained 25 lbs from lexapro. One thing I like about myself is that I am small and work to stay that way. I could deal with 5 lbs but like 20 is out of the question. Have you all gained weight and if so does it come off with diet and excercise?????
Loving my size 2
Lexy
Posted by LynneDa on January 28, 2004, at 11:51:45
In reply to WILL I GET FAT?, posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:42:01
Hi again Lexy -
I'm 5' 7" and have always easily maintained a size 6. I hate to say it, but I'm feeling comfortable in some size 8's now. I think my weight gain is due some to bloating from the Lex and some that I'm happier and cooking more meals for my family. I haven't started an exercise program, but I hope when I do it comes off. I didn't usually have a tendency to gain weight, but now that I'm 40 I think it's harder to take weight off in general.So, if you're young and don't have a tendency to gain weight anyway, you may be okay if you keep up the good diet and exercise regimen.
~ Lynne
Posted by Linda P. on January 28, 2004, at 13:13:19
In reply to Re: Brand New Lexapro User, posted by ednababish on January 28, 2004, at 10:41:30
I switched from Paxil to Lexapro one year ago. Have begun to lose the weight gain from Paxil. Libido has returned - in spades! Sleep much better. Feel trrific! My ONLY adverse reaction, and it may be purely coincidental, has to do with what I believe to be some kind of drug interaction with Protonix, a prescription PPI I just started taking for really severe acid-reflux. (Have had acid reflux all my life - has become really bad in the last five or so years.) Is there anyone out there who might know - is there an element in the PPI compound which might have an effect on brain chemistry? Or is there a possibility that something in the PPI might affect something in the Lexapro formula? Would appreciate hearing from anyone who has definitive information.
Posted by LynneDa on January 28, 2004, at 13:31:07
In reply to Re: Brand New Lexapro User » ednababish, posted by Linda P. on January 28, 2004, at 13:13:19
Hi Linda - What was your adverse reaction? I took Protonix for a couple of weeks while on Lexapro, but it was early on and I was still having s/e's from starting Lex! Since then, I've taken OTC acid reflux meds and haven't noticed anything abnormal, but then I'm still sleepy and a bit foggy from my recent Lex dosage increase.
Good luck and I'm glad to hear you're feeling so good on the Lex!
~ Lynne
Posted by Mrs C. on January 28, 2004, at 13:58:14
In reply to Re: Hi C » Journeyman, posted by simus on January 26, 2004, at 22:19:30
Hello to all 47 of you! There are 3 of me. The nice one (that's the one that posts) the mean & nasty one (how I am most of the time) and the crazy as a loon one which blends well with both of the others. Glad to hear that we are creating enjoyment for you! The Mrs. C's
Posted by kellieann7 on January 28, 2004, at 15:51:22
In reply to Re: Need info - pleeeaaassseee » LynneDa, posted by Jayslace on January 26, 2004, at 15:31:55
> Hi to you all! I just sat down to take a break. Why? Because I just finished vacumming the living room, dining room, hallway and laudry room. Also swept the bathroom and kitchen. Dusted the entire entertainment center down, which meant I was having to be down on my stomach reaching back to the back of the darn thing , but it's done! I also have one load of wash in the dryer and one in the washer. To top it off, my 8 and 11 yr old have a friend over here and they are all 3 playing a video game in the living room (where I am now). I'm missing my husband, he's on a business trip, but we keep in contact alot.
> But all in all, my energy level is up, obviously, and I feel good. Still rubbing my teeth back in forth, but sleeping better at night, and not so sleepy during the day.
> I hope my energy level stays up like this!!!
> Good luck to you all!!!
> RuthieRuthie,
I'm glad to hear you're doing so well! I also have these crazy cleaning bursts. I decided to completely overhaul our computer room this week (DH is a computer tech and has LOTS of junk) and I actually got excited thinking about cleaning while working today. Here's to more energetic, happy days!
Posted by ditzypixy on January 28, 2004, at 16:05:17
In reply to Re: Ladies on lex. please respond! FEELING HORRIBLE, posted by lepus on January 26, 2004, at 13:13:23
i never got that when i was on lexapro,got a rash on my arms and legs bout not that. but magnesium supplements,in high doses,are great for loads of period problems,including pmt and cramps,trust me,cos i get mental mood swings a few days before.
Posted by LynneDa on January 28, 2004, at 16:23:42
In reply to dosages?, posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 11:19:40
Lexy - Did anyone respond to you on this? I think I've put mine down before, but here goes:
I started on 10 mg. At 2 weeks I noticed a signifcant improvement in mood and over-all tolerance, but then came the week before my period. I got depressed, angry & sad again, kind of unable to deal. But it was not awful like it had been.
At 8 weeks, I wasn't quite where I wanted to be - especially in the 10 days before my period. I waited til 10 weeks to be sure and then upped my dose to 20 mg. (after asking my doctor). I'm at 4 1/2 weeks on the new dose and I've noticed a significant improvement in the last few days. I'd say I'm out of the woods on depression, still have a little anger and anxiety during my "bad" week (right now) and am still having sleep issues.
I think it's a good idea to give it 9 or 10 weeks. You'd hate to up it if you don't really have to!
Food for thought & I welcome responses:
I wonder if I'll ever be happy like I used to be. I think part of my happiness was naivety and a complete lack of cynicism about the world. After going through some things in the past 2 or 3 years, I think I'm changed forever. Part of my depression stems from mourning my old self and old state of mind and accepting a new reality, a new order to my world. Hey, do you think I just grew up at the ripe old age of 40????? ha!Hugs and peace to you all!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hey Ya'll,
> Would you all mind just writing a quick reply to let me know what dose you are on and when you started feeling "normal" again. I have decided to stay on 10mg for 9 or 10 weeks before switching but I am curious about ya'lls experiences.
> Thanks!
> Lexy
Posted by sexylexy on January 28, 2004, at 17:03:39
In reply to Re: dosages? » sexylexy, posted by LynneDa on January 28, 2004, at 16:23:42
LynneDa
I think you raise a good point. Part of this is "I want my old self back" , "When will I be myself again" maybe your right. For 24 years I thought the world was my oyster and I was the pearl. After this experience I feel like I got knocked on my tail, do you think we ever get over this or learn to deal, cope and move to be happy with our new selves. Interesting questions, I would love feedback.
Posted by Jayslace on January 28, 2004, at 17:15:03
In reply to Re: Need info - pleeeaaassseee, posted by kellieann7 on January 28, 2004, at 15:51:22
Hi KellieAnn,
I've had a few more small boosts of energy, but the problem is, I'm just not getting the sleep at night that I need. My Lex is starting to work good though, my outlook on life even more positive,basically my coping mechanisms are better. I've always been positive in life otherwise.
But this sleeping at night, I got to have. So, right now I'm begging for some input on Klonopin, which is what my neurologist wanted to give me, instead of my Ambien. (My Ambein doesn't touch me now, and hasn't since my brain surgery.)
If I hear good input, I am going to call my doc and give him the go ahead to call in the script. I can just imagine the energy I would have then after a really good nights sleep!! LOL
I hope everyones doing good !!
Ruthie
Posted by Linda P. on January 28, 2004, at 17:15:05
In reply to Re: Brand New Lexapro User » Linda P., posted by LynneDa on January 28, 2004, at 13:31:07
To Lynne - My "adverse reaction" is what threw me into anxiety/depression originally 4 yrs. and two months ago. (When I was on only Prilosec prescription medication. No anti-depressants at that point.)It's a very sudden-onset sensation of burning in my abdomen, followed by nausea, shakiness, palpitations, weakness and an icy-cold feeling from about the middle of the back of my skull all the way down my back. My flesh remains warm, but the cold feeling is there - and two doctors have told me this is a hormonal reaction - to what, they didn't say. (I have nothing left to produce female hormones with.) (*:*) Since I'm a total "puke-phobic," I keep doctor-prescribed Compazine 5 mg. on hand, and I don't leave it to chance! The Compazine never fails to calm me down and take away the nausea. I used to have this experience when on Prilosec only, so I stopped the Prilosec and went to Tums, Rolaids, etc. However, the acid reflux has continued and gotten much worse over the course of the past four years. I started taking the Prilosec OTC back at the beginning of Nov., as the pharmacist said it is now in a time-release formula and might be "kinder" to me. I had two or three nausea/anxiety episodes in Nov. and Dec., so quit the Prilosec again. My primary care physician urged me to try this new Protonix, which was like a miracle - and his words were, "If you have a reaction to this stuff, you'll be written up in medical journals." We laughed. Well...I had another episode last night - very brief in duration, but nonetheless scary. My psychiatrist says there is NO way that one medication could have an effect on the other - but, please forgive me if I'm a little cynical about that. It seems more than coincidental that the only time I experience these episodes is when I'm on an acid inhibitor.
So that's my long story. I'm still curious about the balance of all these medications, which, by the way, I take 12 hrs. apart. Protonix at 9 a.m., Lexapro 10 mgs. at 9 p.m. I am a huge fan of Lexapro. It's been wonnnnderful for me! I feel ALIVE, physically, mentally and spiritually - have my sense of humor and joie de vivre back. It's the acid-reflux thing, I think, that's screwing things up!
Linda P.
Posted by kellieann7 on January 28, 2004, at 18:20:37
In reply to Re: Need info - pleeeaaassseee » kellieann7, posted by Jayslace on January 28, 2004, at 17:15:03
I am also having problems sleeping. I take it at night, but don't fall asleep right away. But, if I take it in the morning, I am exhausted all day! I find I'm not waking up as often once I do fall asleep, but I'm up later than normal. AND, this jaw clenching stuff is KILLING ME!
Posted by BobYuma on January 28, 2004, at 19:51:10
In reply to Re: dosages? » sexylexy, posted by LynneDa on January 28, 2004, at 16:23:42
Food for thought & I welcome responses:
I wonder if I'll ever be happy like I used to be. I think part of my happiness was naivety and a complete lack of cynicism about the world. After going through some things in the past 2 or 3 years, I think I'm changed forever. Part of my depression stems from mourning my old self and old state of mind and accepting a new reality, a new order to my world. Hey, do you think I just grew up at the ripe old age of 40????? ha!> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Very thought provoking, Lynne. And very wise.
Actually a lot of research has been conducted on this subject, and the fact is that depression levels rise after middle adulthood for nearly all participants in the research programs. Of course, we can't overlook the fact that illness breeds depression, and the older we get, the more likely we are to become ill. The other fact we can't overlook is similar to what you talked about in your message, and that is that the longer we live, the more pain, suffering, and sadness we see and experience.
But then there're other statistics to look at when you're talking about depression. For example, in the late 90's the suicide (clearly related to depression) rate for people living in rural areas was 54.5% higher than people living in a city. Obviously this had nothing at all to do with age.
But back to the age-related depression: Statistics show that the suicide rates for men are relatively the same from ages 20-64, but increase significantly after the age of 65. The suicide rates for women peak between the ages of 40-54, stay about the same between 55 and 74, but peak again after age 75. The highest suicide rates are among white men over 50, representing 10% of that population. They're responsible for 33% of all suicides.
Ok, all of this is too depressing. (laugh - hey, we gotta laugh don't we?)
If anyone asked me (and I know no one did), I'd say that the most important thing to know about depression is to know why we're depressed. If we know that, then as far as I'm concerned, we have the battle won. Because if we know that, then we have the best weapon we can have to fight our depression, and it's ok if we need medical help in the form of an antidepressant to help get us through the fight. The human body is a delicate, "living machine" -- and of all the things God promised us, the one thing He didn't promise was a perfect body in which to exist while we're attending the School of Earth. And that's what it's all about, even depression, it's about learning in this school called Earth. Because we all came to Earth for the same reason, to learn, and if we experience depression while we're on Earth, then it's because we need a lesson that depression can teach us.
But we can accept depression as something we were meant to experience on Earth while, at the same time, attempting to defeat it. In fact, maybe that's a lesson, learning to defeat depression.Opps, sorry I got carried away (again).
Take care - BobYuma
Posted by twinsmom on January 28, 2004, at 20:48:24
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
I am starting lex tomorrow and just wanting to know if anyone has any info for me on what to expect. I was taking prozac to zoloft and now this. I hope it works because the others didn't.
Thanks for anyone taking the time to help me.twinsmom
Posted by Jayslace on January 28, 2004, at 20:53:45
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro?, posted by twinsmom on January 28, 2004, at 20:48:24
Welcome twinsmom! What dose are you starting out on? I started out on 10mg and the only side effects I had was a little drowsiness. That did not last long for me though. My depression became much better within a couple of weeks. That was start for me.
Good luck and welcome aboard!!!!
Ruthie
Posted by KathrynLex on January 28, 2004, at 21:02:06
In reply to Re: dosages? -- Lynne, posted by BobYuma on January 28, 2004, at 19:51:10
Food for thought & I welcome responses:
I wonder if I'll ever be happy like I used to be. I think part of my happiness was naivety and a complete lack of cynicism about the world. After going through some things in the past 2 or 3 years, I think I'm changed forever. Part of my depression stems from mourning my old self and old state of mind and accepting a new reality, a new order to my world. Hey, do you think I just grew up at the ripe old age of 40????? ha!>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hi Lynne,
I agree with Bob...it's a compelling question. I regret that I don't have a compelling answer for you.
Being cynical is healthy in moderate doses, so long as it doesn't make you bitter. It helps to remember that the world isn't always a bad place. (Lex can assist you in that department.)
Rather than mourn the loss of your naivete, think of yourself as worldly. With the loss of innocence, comes experience. (I'd take experience over innocence any day.)
Enjoy being worldly with a slightly cynical edge. I notice you've got a sharp sense of humor too. That sounds like a good package to me. Embrace who you are. You might find that the you today can be just as happy or even happier than the "you" of yesterday.
Wishing you the very best,
K.
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