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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by MarkD on March 1, 2004, at 11:35:20
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by nicky847 on March 1, 2004, at 11:09:58
> Yeah really what WAS up with last weekend!!?!?...was there a full moon out or something?? maybe its the weather and seasons changing..we had an abnormally warm weekend where i live..kind of breaks you out of your comfort zone..
> > Ok everybody . . . what the heck was going on this weekend?!?! I too had an anxiety blow-up late Saturday night! It's the weekend before my period starts and I've had a cold all week so feel a little worn out. Also, the meds just don't seem strong enough to overcome my monthly hormonal swing. The obsessive, cloying, overwhelming, negative self-talk feelings abated as the day went by, thank goodness.
> >
> > Bob was right though, the good thing is that these "attacks" don't last as long, don't go as deep and don't leave as permanent an imprint as they used to. That is progress I believe.
> >
> > I also agree with Nick about reprioritizing. I went out Sunday and bought a treadmill that was on sale at Sears. I never do impulsive things like that, but felt it was completely necessary for my well-being! I have to get serious about exercise as I know it will help.
> >
> > I'm encouraged to hear everyone's stories, even when there are setbacks, so thanks everyone for your support, candor and great advice. Here's wishing everyone a week full of more up-beat moments than down!
> > ~ Lynne
> > >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
> >
> >
> > Kathryn-
> > > I had a similar experience on Sunday...and what you described is right on...it absolutely SUCKS to have to revisit those feelings...
> > >
> > > heres what I'm doing..i realize that I have been running myself ragged lately and that is probably what brought on the attack..so its time for me to just reprioritize and take care of myself like i did a couple of months ago when i was beginning on lexapro..and i think that if i do that, and get back to basics..that i will be feeling good again real soon..and i hope you will too..
> > >
> > > nick
> > > > It's been almost a month since my last panic attack, but I had one last night. I realize that it is only a minor setback...but it would be nice if panic attacks weren't something I needed to worry about anymore.
> > > >
> > > > It was only a minor attack...cured with .25 mgs of Xanax. Maybe it was brought on by my period...Lex seems to be less effective around my time of the month. But it was horrible to revisit the irrational thinking, pounding heart and feelings of unreality that accompany a panic attack. I'll call my pdoc about it on Monday.
> > > >
> > > > I'm disappointed, but I realize it doesn't mean I'm not getting better.
> > > >
> > > > K.
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
> =============================================
=============================================REPLY from Mark
Hello I’m not a stranger to Anxiety disorder and panic that’s for sure, its been awhile since I had an attack until a few weeks ago, when my blood pressure was found to be high and to make a long story short I freaked and brought back the old feelings. Doctor trying a few different BP medications on me the last few weeks none really seem to working, and of course every time I take my pressure reading and it has not gone down I feel the anxiety hit me the old “fear feeds fear cycle”. Well the doc wanted me to start Lexapro this past weekend and im just skeptical about taking an anti-depressant, I really don’t feel that im depressed….Can someone give me their experience (S) with Lexapro, my doctor wants to put me on a starting dose of 10mg a day taken at night because im having anxiety symptoms in the PM and finding it difficult to sleep, what else is knew 8)
Thank you all in advance for any input you can offer, especially on lexapro..
===============================================================
Posted by tmhwrite on March 1, 2004, at 11:50:34
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by MarkD on March 1, 2004, at 11:35:20
Well Mark,
I've been on Lex twice now, last year and just started again this year (should never have gotten off it the first time). This time I had a very bad experience of not being able to sleep while taking it and waking up every 15 minutes with panicky feelings. They tell me those go away after awhile (4-6 weeks) but I couldn't take it. It was driving me crazy. So, now, in addition to the Lex, I take Clonazepam to deal with the anxiety. The doc says that should be fairly short term, though, until the Lex really has a chance to kick in. I don't know if this is what you wanted to hear, but that's been my experience with it. The first time it worked great, but this second time has been hell. I'm doing pretty good now with the mix of the two drugs, though. I've been on it a couple of weeks now. I'm not sure what advice to give you except to maybe try it and see how your body reacts to it. Maybe if anxiety is your only trouble, not depression, it would be best just to try to the Clonazepam. I don't know. I'm not a doctor. Best of luck to you and keep us posted on what you decide to do and how it goes.
Theresa
Posted by modeljenn on March 1, 2004, at 12:19:18
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
This is my 6th day on Lexapro and I was wondering if anyone else has been so tired. When I tried Wellbutrin I was always up. Does this side effect go away?
Jenn =)
Posted by MarkD on March 1, 2004, at 12:43:17
In reply to Tiredness, posted by modeljenn on March 1, 2004, at 12:19:18
Jenn,i'm starting lexapro 10mg today ill let you know in a few days or so..
Mark
Posted by LynneDa on March 1, 2004, at 13:02:57
In reply to Tiredness, posted by modeljenn on March 1, 2004, at 12:19:18
Hi Jenn - Feeling tired is very normal as your body adjusts! For most people, it goes away after a couple weeks. I'm not sure why it's different than Wellbutrin - works on different chemicals in your brain. Hang in there and take care!
~ Lynne
Posted by MarkD on March 1, 2004, at 13:09:05
In reply to Re: Hey Ya'll Lexaproers, posted by mystic on February 28, 2004, at 16:27:36
Hello Mystic,
Im new to the boards, and have dealt in and out with Anxiety for 18 years and just recently had a setback about a week ago after about 6 good years! . I sympathize with you and the many who have that one good moment then one bad, For all its worth I've found that facing, accepting and floating through the feelings works well for me, the last thing you want to do is fight the feelings this just makes them worse. I got this advice from a book call "Hope and Help for your Nerves" by Dr. Clarie Weekes... look it up at Amazon.com its a great book that i have had for many years... hope this helps in some small way..
God Bless
Mark
Posted by linnie on March 1, 2004, at 13:40:57
In reply to Re: Hey Ya'll Lexaproers, posted by MarkD on March 1, 2004, at 13:09:05
> Hello Mystic,
>
> Im new to the boards, and have dealt in and out with Anxiety for 18 years and just recently had a setback about a week ago after about 6 good years! . I sympathize with you and the many who have that one good moment then one bad, For all its worth I've found that facing, accepting and floating through the feelings works well for me, the last thing you want to do is fight the feelings this just makes them worse. I got this advice from a book call "Hope and Help for your Nerves" by Dr. Clarie Weekes... look it up at Amazon.com its a great book that i have had for many years... hope this helps in some small way..
>
> God Bless
>
> MarkHi Mark,
Were you taking anything for the anxiety?
linnie
Posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 13:42:19
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback - KathrynLex, posted by BobYuma on February 28, 2004, at 17:47:09
Hi Bob,
I hope the rest of your weekend went well. My pdoc tells me that panic attacks often occur at night, which might explain why ours happened just a few minutes after going to bed. It is quite discouraging to have been panic free for so long only to have an attack. Maybe the good in this situation is the fact that we ARE getting better, the slight panic attack reminds us of how far we have come since starting Lexapro. I'm still very grateful for this medication. Thank you for your kind post, I wish you the very best.
K.
Posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 13:48:37
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by mrs c on March 1, 2004, at 7:37:40
Hi Mrs. C,
Thank you for your words of encouragement. Everyone on this board is so wonderful. I'm feeling better now and wanted to comment on your question about Xanax.
I strongly recommend getting something to add to your Lexapro to help get you through your times of increased anxiety. Xanax has been wonderful for me, although a lot of people prefer Klonopin. Another one to try is Lorazepam. In my experience, they are all very relaxing. Xanax has helped the most with my panic attacks. You might consider giving it a try.
K.
Posted by MarkD on March 1, 2004, at 13:53:41
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 13:48:37
Yes, I also take Lorazepam from time to time at night, only 1 mg sometimes only take a half of one pill to help me calm down and relax so that i can get into sleep mode....
Posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 13:55:57
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by nicky847 on March 1, 2004, at 9:48:36
Hi Nicky,
Thank you. I'm feeling better today...I took the morning off and relaxed a little before coming in to work. Like you said, it's important to reprioritize and get back to the basics. Take good care of yourself this week and please let me know how you're doing.
K.
Posted by MarkD on March 1, 2004, at 13:57:58
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 13:48:37
Yes, I also take Lorazepam from time to time at night, only 1 mg sometimes only take a half of one pill to help me calm down and relax so that i can get into sleep mode....
Posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 14:01:22
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by LynneDa on March 1, 2004, at 10:48:46
Hi Lynne,
Way to go on your treadmill purchase. I've been running lately and have found that it does wonders for my well being.
It's odd that Lexapro can't seem to keep up with the hormonal changes some of us have during that time of the month. I'm really hoping that was the cause of my panic attack this weekend.
Have a fantastic week and thank you for your positive encouragement.
K.
Posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 14:20:18
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by MarkD on March 1, 2004, at 13:57:58
Hi Mark,
How are you liking Lexapro so far? In my experience the first two weeks were an adjustment period where my body took some time getting used to the medication. You might encounter a few uncomfortable side effects, but they're tolerable.
Lexapro is a terrific medication for anxiety and panic disorder. Like you, I was skeptical about taking an anti-depressant for anxiety but I'm glad I gave it a chance. It really helps with negative thinking patterns. For example, I don't worry that minor health problems are going to lead to a terminal illness.
Give it a 6-9 week trial. It's worth it to give it a try, because if it turns out to be the right medication for you it will make your life MUCH easier.
K.
Posted by LynneDa on March 1, 2004, at 14:41:57
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback » MarkD, posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 14:20:18
Hi Mark -
I can echo what Kathryn wrote. My depression wasn't nearly as bad as my obsessive thought patterns were - or as destructive to my self-esteem and relationships. And the Lex has almost eliminated my need to think, think, think about certain topics.I was never diagnosed with anxiety, but every day on my way home from work, for about a year, my chest would get tight and I couldn't breathe well, I'd want to scream or cry or something and I wanted to drive my car into an embankment. Was that an anxiety attack? I don't really know, but whatever they were, they don't happen anymore and I attribute it to the Lex :-)!
Give it some time and best of luck!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Hi Mark,
>
> How are you liking Lexapro so far? In my experience the first two weeks were an adjustment period where my body took some time getting used to the medication. You might encounter a few uncomfortable side effects, but they're tolerable.
>
> Lexapro is a terrific medication for anxiety and panic disorder. Like you, I was skeptical about taking an anti-depressant for anxiety but I'm glad I gave it a chance. It really helps with negative thinking patterns. For example, I don't worry that minor health problems are going to lead to a terminal illness.
>
> Give it a 6-9 week trial. It's worth it to give it a try, because if it turns out to be the right medication for you it will make your life MUCH easier.
>
> K.
Posted by MarkD on March 1, 2004, at 14:46:09
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback » MarkD, posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 14:20:18
Hi Kath, thank you so much for the input, yes the only thing that seemed to be a side effect is that it was a little harder to sleep the first night i took a 10mg dose of lex so i stopped, but your right maybe i should take it for awhile and have patience on its effects or side effects for that matter.
And hopefully it will work on my anxiety symptoms although not constant their a pain in the ass and only seem to be at their worse when its time to lay down and sleep..
Thank you again for your reply...God Bless
Mark
Posted by nicky847 on March 1, 2004, at 14:51:27
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback » nicky847, posted by KathrynLex on March 1, 2004, at 13:55:57
Kathryn-
I'm glad that you are feeling better..I am doing pretty OK today too..good to be back at work and back in the flow...makes me feel good..im glad that you relaxed a little bit this morning...my girlfriend suffers from migraines..she got one last night after throwing a dinner party..she worked very hard on it and i think the stress and fatigue brought it on..so she took the morning off too..i guess all the stars are aligning to show people like you me that we need to slow down a little..:p...hope you continue to do well i will update you later this week on how im feeling
nick> Hi Nicky,
>
> Thank you. I'm feeling better today...I took the morning off and relaxed a little before coming in to work. Like you said, it's important to reprioritize and get back to the basics. Take good care of yourself this week and please let me know how you're doing.
>
> K.
Posted by dolphinsmile22 on March 1, 2004, at 17:15:32
In reply to Re: A Frustrating Setback, posted by LynneDa on March 1, 2004, at 14:41:57
Last week I was just prescribed Lexapro, after close to 2 years being off Paxil. I am only taking half the pill right now - 5mg. I noticed right away that my orgasms are delayed quite a bit - I'm a female. I am supposed to begin taking the whole pill, but I'm afraid that will make my delayed orgasms worse. Will this improve over time? The only other negative side effects I've noticed, are stomachaches and headaches, but my obsessive thinking has improved almost immediately. I don't have a doctor's appointment for another 2 weeks.
Posted by LynneDa on March 1, 2004, at 17:30:49
In reply to Questions?, posted by dolphinsmile22 on March 1, 2004, at 17:15:32
Hi! You've come to the right place with your questions, there are many supportive, caring and knowledgeable people on this board.
Your side effects sound pretty normal. That's great about the Lex eliminating your obsessive thinking; what a relief!
Ability to orgasm is something that has only improved marginally for me after 2 months at 10mg and 2 more months at 20mg. But, there are people on this board who say it does improve after a month or so. Everyone is different, but it seems to follow that the more easily-orgasmic you were pre-Lex, the harder it is to attain the same levels while on Lex. There are lots of posts on this in the archives if you'd like to read more!
Good luck to you and keep posting with your questions. It's quite an interesting journey and we all need support from time to time!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Last week I was just prescribed Lexapro, after close to 2 years being off Paxil. I am only taking half the pill right now - 5mg. I noticed right away that my orgasms are delayed quite a bit - I'm a female. I am supposed to begin taking the whole pill, but I'm afraid that will make my delayed orgasms worse. Will this improve over time? The only other negative side effects I've noticed, are stomachaches and headaches, but my obsessive thinking has improved almost immediately. I don't have a doctor's appointment for another 2 weeks.
Posted by sexylexy on March 1, 2004, at 17:54:23
In reply to Re: Questions? » dolphinsmile22, posted by LynneDa on March 1, 2004, at 17:30:49
Hey my lexapro family,
Well, I gave it my 10 weeks. I have talked to my pdoc and she said that I should try 15mg for a few weeks and see how that goes. We have a meeting on the 18th so I hope that I will have good news for her.
For all of you newbies on 10, it has done a lot for me. I am much better than I was 9 weeks ago but still just haven't gotten back to myself again. I am just ready to be my happy confident self again. I am praying that this will be the answer and get me the rest of the way.
Thoughts, prayers and support would be extremely appreciated. I am scared but ready to make the moves I need to to get me back. I love me, miss me and am ready to be me again.
Praying for you all.
Lexy
Posted by dolphinsmile22 on March 1, 2004, at 17:55:11
In reply to Re: Questions? » dolphinsmile22, posted by LynneDa on March 1, 2004, at 17:30:49
Thank you for your prompt reply. I'll check out the archives.
Posted by LynneDa on March 1, 2004, at 18:03:20
In reply to A hopeful step ahead, posted by sexylexy on March 1, 2004, at 17:54:23
Hey Lexy - I'm proud of you, you can do it!!! When I upped to 20 I did have a few side effects the first week - not bad, just a little stomach upset and I was tired again, so don't get discouraged if it happens to you. Just hang tough, they won't be as noticeable as first starting.
I can say I have many more moments when I forget about my bad stuff and feel like my bouncy old, somewhat hyper self.
We'll be waiting to hear how you do! You will get there and I'll say a prayer for you :-).
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hey my lexapro family,
> Well, I gave it my 10 weeks. I have talked to my pdoc and she said that I should try 15mg for a few weeks and see how that goes. We have a meeting on the 18th so I hope that I will have good news for her.
> For all of you newbies on 10, it has done a lot for me. I am much better than I was 9 weeks ago but still just haven't gotten back to myself again. I am just ready to be my happy confident self again. I am praying that this will be the answer and get me the rest of the way.
> Thoughts, prayers and support would be extremely appreciated. I am scared but ready to make the moves I need to to get me back. I love me, miss me and am ready to be me again.
> Praying for you all.
> Lexy
Posted by titlepro49 on March 1, 2004, at 18:39:59
In reply to Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2002, at 7:52:48
After 4 years on Prozac, my GP put me on Paxil. The Paxil worked for me for 3 years but I began to notice some OCD returning. As I have a history of building up a tolerence to AD, I requested that my GP give me something else. 5 days ago I started on Lexapro and started withdrawal from Paxil. My OCD and depression seem better already, eventhough I am experiencing major "zaps" due to withdrawal from Paxil. I had my thyroid "nuked" 2 years ago and hypothyroidism finally under control as of December. Paxil, thyroid problem and menopause caused a 40 pound weight gain. Also, Paxil left me feeling "neutered" sexually. Will I be better off on Lexapro??? I could use some support right now. I'm a little unnerved. Faye
Posted by mystic on March 1, 2004, at 19:43:10
In reply to Mystic, please post today., posted by mrs c on March 1, 2004, at 7:58:23
Thank you Mrs C...It was so great to hear from someone...I'm just struggling by...I made it to work today and it was tough but made it through..I just feel so discouraged and these thoughts just consume me..I think of one day at a time...But my anxiety is always putting me ahead...My daughters baby shower is on the 28th of March and i'm counting the days wondering worrying whether or not I'll be well by then...Right now I'm just not sure I will ever be well again...I keep thinking that this isnt what everyone else feels and that I'm always going to feel like this...I feel sooo helpless...The postings do help a lot it is just hard to believe that everyone feels like I do..I'm only 41 and have had to deal with this since I was 23...Have had some great years without anxiety/depression but now it is back full force..I hate to waste time on something that just might not work....I'm just getting over my cycle and was hoping that would bring me some relief as I didnt have a problem with PMS just during...I can't begin to tell you how special that you are to care and reading your posting really helped..So you are an angel and there are others also in this room that I heard from K and Mark ...thank you...I promise that if or when I ever get better I will help others in the room also...I'm just not sure how much more I can take....God Bless you all..Thank you everyone...Mystic
Posted by BobYuma on March 1, 2004, at 20:53:58
In reply to Re: Mystic, please post today., posted by mystic on March 1, 2004, at 19:43:10
> > ..I think of one day at a time...But my anxiety is always putting me ahead...My daughters baby shower is on the 28th of March and i'm counting the days wondering worrying whether or not I'll be well by then...Right now I'm just not sure I will ever be well again......Mystic
-----------------------------------------
Hello, Mystic.
I think most of us here on the board have felt what you're feeling. I've been on Lexapro for about 12 weeks, but there were a few times when I considered very seriously stopping it. But I stuck with it, and now I'm glad I did.Occasionally I still feel that overwhelming feeling, but I know when I feel it, and that's when I let myself think ahead. It's when I "see" tomorrow and the next day and the next as being the same as it is in that particular moment. You can't do that, Mystic, I know I can't. You mentioned that you tried to think of one day at a time. Well, guess what, you're thinking too far ahead when you do that. It takes practice, just as any learned behavior does, but you can do it -- Take life one moment at a time, Myst. Think about the "now" as they say. Look at what you're doing in any given moment, and think about what you need to do to get through that moment. That's the secret, trust me, when I let myself go and start thinking about next week, or next month, that's when I feel the anxiety and depression creeping back into my mind.
Please keep posting on the board, and any time that you feel especially vulnerable, or when you're having a particularly bad moment, just write on the board exactly what you feel, and one of us will answer you. Tell us exactly what you're feeling, we can relate, and it will make you feel less alone in your thoughts.Keep taking the Lexapro, it will kick in, we all have been through the period when we wondered if and when it was going to start working for us, and it did.
Take care of yourself, Myst. God Bless.
BobYuma
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