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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 19 of 19. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 9:19:35
My husband has been on lexapro for about 4 months and wow, what a difference it has made! I noticed recently that he doesn't take it like he should be and now I don't think he is taking it at all. I know that there are side effects for doing this. Could anyone tell me the side effects of getting off of it without consulting a doctor and quitting cold turkey? His behavior is back to where it was before. Any answers?
Posted by Maxime on February 19, 2005, at 14:00:32
In reply to HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex...., posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 9:19:35
> My husband has been on lexapro for about 4 months and wow, what a difference it has made! I noticed recently that he doesn't take it like he should be and now I don't think he is taking it at all. I know that there are side effects for doing this. Could anyone tell me the side effects of getting off of it without consulting a doctor and quitting cold turkey? His behavior is back to where it was before. Any answers?
Hi,
You might want to post this on this Withdrawal board in terms of any side-effects.
HOWEVER, I had a very good PDOC when living in another Province who told me that most people who stop an anti-depressant too early that the depression will return and will be worse than the first occurence. Now what she meant is that a person who is on an AD and their depression is relieved (lucky bastards!) they need to stay on the medication until the depression has been "in remission" for a certain length of time (I can't remember how long) and then they would slowly taper off the drug.
Why did he stop the med?
Maxime
Posted by Racer on February 19, 2005, at 14:21:49
In reply to HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex...., posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 9:19:35
> My husband has been on lexapro for about 4 months and wow, what a difference it has made! I noticed recently that he doesn't take it like he should be and now I don't think he is taking it at all. I know that there are side effects for doing this. Could anyone tell me the side effects of getting off of it without consulting a doctor and quitting cold turkey? His behavior is back to where it was before. Any answers?
No, but I have some questions... :-D
First off, have you talked to him about this? It may be that he has some issues with being on the med, and stopped because of them. Or maybe he just didn't know that you need to keep taking it long enough to "reset" your depression button, if you will. Maybe he was experiencing distressing side effects. Finding out why he went off of it would be a good starting point, I'd think.
Also, in terms of withdrawal effects, after four months of Lexapro, I'd think that rebound depression was likely to be the worst that would happen. Four months, in my experience, is about when the meds have built up to steady state in the blood stream long enough for them to show their true colors -- that's when weight gain starts for me, and about the time the lethargy gets unbearable, etc. It may be that whatever withdrawal he might be having is better than whatever he's been feeling on the med.
Talking to him about it might help you understand better, and it's where I'd recommend you start.
Also, when I was on Lexapro, I stopped cold turkey after not a long time on it. My husband, knowing about psych meds only from TV shows like Law & Order, was afraid that this was a sign that I was going to go into one of those psychotic states that he'd seen on those shows when people went off anti-psychotics. If that's a fear you have, put it to rest. When I quit the Lexapro, it was because the medication was unbearable for me, and the only result was deepened depression. If you're not psychotic before the med, you probably won't be psychotic after -- unless you're prone to psychotic depression, which I think most of us aren't.
Hope that helps.
Posted by Maxime on February 19, 2005, at 15:01:13
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » MickeyD, posted by Racer on February 19, 2005, at 14:21:49
Not to scare Mickey in any way. This is more for Racer.
Racer anyone can go psychotic if the conditions are "right". You don't have be prone to psychotic depression to go psychotic. Lack of sleep can make you go psychotic. A reaction to a med. A reaction to stopping a med. And a depression that worsens to a very deep depression can indeed become a psychotic depression.
I don't think I am saying anything you don't already know. Maybe I simply misunderstood what you wrote so please don't be angry with me for posting this.
Maxime
>
> No, but I have some questions... :-D
>
> First off, have you talked to him about this? It may be that he has some issues with being on the med, and stopped because of them. Or maybe he just didn't know that you need to keep taking it long enough to "reset" your depression button, if you will. Maybe he was experiencing distressing side effects. Finding out why he went off of it would be a good starting point, I'd think.
>
> Also, in terms of withdrawal effects, after four months of Lexapro, I'd think that rebound depression was likely to be the worst that would happen. Four months, in my experience, is about when the meds have built up to steady state in the blood stream long enough for them to show their true colors -- that's when weight gain starts for me, and about the time the lethargy gets unbearable, etc. It may be that whatever withdrawal he might be having is better than whatever he's been feeling on the med.
>
> Talking to him about it might help you understand better, and it's where I'd recommend you start.
>
> Also, when I was on Lexapro, I stopped cold turkey after not a long time on it. My husband, knowing about psych meds only from TV shows like Law & Order, was afraid that this was a sign that I was going to go into one of those psychotic states that he'd seen on those shows when people went off anti-psychotics. If that's a fear you have, put it to rest. When I quit the Lexapro, it was because the medication was unbearable for me, and the only result was deepened depression. If you're not psychotic before the med, you probably won't be psychotic after -- unless you're prone to psychotic depression, which I think most of us aren't.
>
> Hope that helps.
Posted by Phillipa on February 19, 2005, at 17:48:49
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » Racer, posted by Maxime on February 19, 2005, at 15:01:13
Why have you not asked your husband about your concerns? Fondly, Phillipa
Posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 18:05:57
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex...., posted by Maxime on February 19, 2005, at 14:00:32
>
> Why did he stop the med?
>
> MaximeHe forgot to take it a couple of times and within the week started doing the same things as last time. I have asked him if he stopped taking them as he keeps them in his vehicle and has taken them faithfully for about 4 months until recently but he says he hasn't stopped and I can't hardly believe it. His doctor put him on this more for a chemical imbalance and it has made such a difference, but suddenly he is back to where he was with no other explanation whatsoever. He has gone through tremendous stress and depression over the last year or so, and when we found this drug, I thought it was an answer to a prayer. I don't know what steps to take and will be calling his doctor soon. But he is back to doing, as the doctor said, unusual and very extreme behavior. I thought that maybe getting off the meds may have triggered another onslaught of what is wrong with him. Any ideas out there?
Posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 18:09:08
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » MickeyD, posted by Racer on February 19, 2005, at 14:21:49
> > He hasn't really had any side effects on the meds at all. He is 6'2" and 185#. There has been nothing as far as side effects that he has talked about. He is a talker and I am sure he would have mentioned it. He seemed to be at his best while he was on the meds....so go figure???
Posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 18:10:38
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » Racer, posted by Maxime on February 19, 2005, at 15:01:13
So you think that getting off the meds could have triggered this behavior again?
Posted by Phillipa on February 19, 2005, at 18:12:57
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » Maxime, posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 18:10:38
What type of behavior is he exhibiting if it's okay to ask. Fondly,Phillipa
Posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 18:17:30
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex...., posted by Phillipa on February 19, 2005, at 18:12:57
He starts running away from all his problems, literally. He gives up easily, spends money like crazy, and just very depressed. He does things that he wouldn't normally do. He stood up a potential business partner...it was a half million dollar deal and he was supposed to meet with him on Monday and decided not to show up and hasn't called him since. This is very unlike him as he such the business man...always looking to grow his company. He gets angry very easily...I don't know if that helps, but if you knew how he was before, you'd know the difference.
Posted by banga on February 19, 2005, at 19:33:47
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » Phillipa, posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 18:17:30
Hi,
One thing to keep in mind is---if he is behaving differently, it doesn't necesarily mean that he is not taking the medication. If you spend some time on this board, you may note that unfortunately psych meds are VERY tricky and complicated. They may work for a while, then for no reason stop working. You may find the perfect one, but it has side effects that you can't live with....or they only work long-term when combined with x. Or you just have to increase the dose to get the good effect back.
If you know for sure he's not taking them, that is different--I am just saying he could take them religiously and nevertheless they just suddenly stop working, or work less; or maybe it is in between--that he still forgets sometimes, and the blood levels are slowly getting lower and lower..
You may have your reasons why you don't feel right about asking him directly about it, but even if you manage to get around to it indirectly, no need to get confrontational....
ask him how things are going, then say it's been xx weeks since you started the Lexapro, what does he think--is it helping still? Maybe say, that you felt that in the beginning you noticed a REAL big difference and that he seemed so much happier, but lately it seems to have worn off...has he noticed this too? What could be going on? Should he maybe see the doc, maybe he just needs a little more...
Never mind if this is totally not what would work for you two--
Just some thoughts to ponder.
Posted by banga on February 19, 2005, at 19:44:55
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » Phillipa, posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 18:17:30
And rereading your last post....you mention anger, spending money, dropping obligations....does it seem like pure depression that he has? or could he have more of a mixed mood picture? If there is any chance he has irritable highs, hypomania, Lexapro could actually worsen that aspect of behavior. That's the thing about these meds, they ARE tricky...
I don't mean to scare you--I am not there to see what is going on, but it is something to consider. When is he scheduled to see the doc again?And what is his attitude been regarding the medication, and seeing a psychiatrist?
Posted by MickeyD on February 19, 2005, at 19:50:54
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex...., posted by banga on February 19, 2005, at 19:44:55
> I am going to call the doctor on Monday because he is out of town. He is a very close friend and he'll do something I am sure. I just like to know that we're not the only ones dealing with this and love to get input on other's experiences.
He tells me he is still taking it...I think he resents it because he calls it his "crazy medicine". He is either up or down, there is no in between. I had a friend whose father was kind of in the same boat...he would spend money endlessly, be angry, everyone was wrong, couldn't rationalize....of course, there were things that he did that my husband hasn't done and vice versa. Everyone's input is really helping. Thanks!!!
Posted by Phillipa on February 19, 2005, at 20:23:50
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex...., posted by banga on February 19, 2005, at 19:44:55
You know, I hate to say it but I agree with Banga. I had an ex father-in-law who never finished high school, but went on to own a new car dealership, acquire millions in property, etc. Then when he was in his 50's he gave up his business and leased the property and building. To make a long story short, when he started chopping palm trees down, and throwing money all over the house his wife took him to a pdoc. He tried to blame her that she was crazy. He turned out to be bipolar, and her life has been miserable ever since. He would be put on meds, gain wt, quit the meds, and become manic. Then after about 2 weeks of running all over the country, he would crash. She's stuck with him, and they are in their 80's now. He has accumulated millions, but really never got to enjoy it. I'm certainly not saying this is what is wrong with your husband. I just thought I would tell you a story that I felt was interesting. I hope I didn't upset you, or anger you. I'm sure your husband will again become the loving man you knew once he finds a tx that works for him. Fondly, Phillipa
Posted by Maxime on February 20, 2005, at 0:53:15
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » banga, posted by Phillipa on February 19, 2005, at 20:23:50
Hi
I wonder if your is bipolar and the Lexapro set off a manic reaction. Mania is always "happy". It can manifest as anger as well. The spending of money is also a sign.Finally the fact that he seems to think he is okay is another symptom.
Maybe it is a good idea for him to stay off the med until he sees his doctor. Also, maybe you should keep a journal of his behaviour. It might help his doctor.
Keep us posted. I know everything will work out eventually. Remember to look after yourself during this time and that you are getting support.
Take care,
Maxime
Posted by MickeyD on March 15, 2005, at 22:19:34
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » MickeyD, posted by Racer on February 19, 2005, at 14:21:49
> No, but I have some questions... :-D
>
> First off, have you talked to him about this? It may be that he has some issues with being on the med, and stopped because of them. Or maybe he just didn't know that you need to keep taking it long enough to "reset" your depression button, if you will. Maybe he was experiencing distressing side effects. Finding out why he went off of it would be a good starting point, I'd think.
>
> Also, in terms of withdrawal effects, after four months of Lexapro, I'd think that rebound depression was likely to be the worst that would happen. Four months, in my experience, is about when the meds have built up to steady state in the blood stream long enough for them to show their true colors -- that's when weight gain starts for me, and about the time the lethargy gets unbearable, etc. It may be that whatever withdrawal he might be having is better than whatever he's been feeling on the med.
>
> Talking to him about it might help you understand better, and it's where I'd recommend you start.
>
> Also, when I was on Lexapro, I stopped cold turkey after not a long time on it. My husband, knowing about psych meds only from TV shows like Law & Order, was afraid that this was a sign that I was going to go into one of those psychotic states that he'd seen on those shows when people went off anti-psychotics. If that's a fear you have, put it to rest. When I quit the Lexapro, it was because the medication was unbearable for me, and the only result was deepened depression. If you're not psychotic before the med, you probably won't be psychotic after -- unless you're prone to psychotic depression, which I think most of us aren't.
>
> Hope that helps.That info has helped a lot. Let me tell you what has happened since I last posted. He says he is still taking it and I guess he still is. He is a totally different person....very disconnected from family, has nothing to do with any of us; very, very tired, no energy, and says he is so unhappy, but doesn't know why. He says he doesn't know what is wrong with him. He has no interests anymore and just lays around and watches tv...which is very unlike him. Everything I say gets on his nerves. I try talking with him, but he just gets incredibly mad at me. So talking with him is out of the question because I can't and he just gets mad. The doctor wants to "up" his meds to 20 mg instead of the 10 mg he has been taking, but he refuses saying he doesn't like taking meds anyway and he is in no way going to increase his dosage. I don't know what to do. Would him stop taking it cold turkey do him better than taking it? I picked up his script for the 20mg and thought about "tricking" him into taking it without his knowledge, but it seems so devious.
I am lost as to what to do and am just beside myself at his behavior....he acts like he hates me and being around me...any thoughts??
Posted by Phillipa on March 16, 2005, at 0:09:08
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » Racer, posted by MickeyD on March 15, 2005, at 22:19:34
He definitely sounds depressed and withdrawn. I don't think you can or should give him the meds. He has to want to help himself. Sounds like you need therapy to help you deal with him. I guess he wouldn't agree to marriage counseling since he is unwilling even to take his meds. I feel for you. Men can be so stuborn about seeing a doc. On the other hand his thinking is probably distorted from his depression. Maybe he does need a change in meds. Can you get him to see the pdoc? Fondly, Phillipa
Posted by MickeyD on March 16, 2005, at 9:17:11
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex.... » MickeyD, posted by Phillipa on March 16, 2005, at 0:09:08
> He definitely sounds depressed and withdrawn. I don't think you can or should give him the meds. He has to want to help himself. Sounds like you need therapy to help you deal with him. I guess he wouldn't agree to marriage counseling since he is unwilling even to take his meds. I feel for you. Men can be so stuborn about seeing a doc. On the other hand his thinking is probably distorted from his depression. Maybe he does need a change in meds. Can you get him to see the pdoc? Fondly, Phillipa
He refuses to see a doctor...I don't know what to do. Does the depression just pass or is it always there?
Posted by Phillipa on March 16, 2005, at 19:16:04
In reply to Re: HELP!! Husband stopped taking Lex...., posted by MickeyD on March 16, 2005, at 9:17:11
I guess it depends on the person, we're all different. I've heard with some people it comes in cycles, and with others it's always there. Fondly, Phillipa
This is the end of the thread.
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