Posted by ayuda on November 22, 2002, at 10:07:37
In reply to Re: So what's the scoop on anxiety and Lexapro? » ayuda, posted by Mr.Scott on November 22, 2002, at 0:32:29
First of all, I'd like to apologize for the previous post appearing several times. Actually, my computer crashed as soon as I clicked the confirm button, so I had no idea it even went through -- I had to reboot, and didn't log back in to this site. I'm ordering a new computer next week, because this one is so bad especially on the web.
Anyhow, Scott and Altrunner, thanks so much for your responses, they help a lot. The more info I can take into my doctor the better. I'll have to 1) go ahead and increase my Lexapro (I increase my dosage on my own often, since I only have med checks once a month) and 2) pin her into an Rx for something to help me sleep, whether it's Ativan or something she "approves" of. But you are right, she needs to make sure I am not suffering just because she has an ethical problem with treating my s/e's.
I was tapering off the Effexor, but am done with it now -- after reading your post and Altrunner's, I realized that it was ridiculous to hold myself strictly to the taper regimen, and that I should go ahead and increase to 15 mg today and stop the Effexor.
I find it interesting that you are on Lexapro for Bipolar -- I thought that was treated differently. Do you see a shrink or an internist for your meds? Did you not have the g.i. problems that I did with the Effexor? I was so sick that I could not think straight -- but then again, I suffer from g.i. problems naturally. That -- and the massive weight gain -- are the only reasons I stopped the Effexor. I find it interesting also that you've had an increase in appetite from the Effexor to the Lexapro -- I've had just the opposite. I could barely stop eating with the Effexor (despite the acid reflux -- I was miserable), and now I'm back to two meals a day, and I don't feel starved in between.
Good luck on whatever combo works good for you.
> I wouldn't expect it to work any better than Celexa for anxiety. It may have fewer side effects, but it's no miracle drug.
>
> I am much like you in some ways. I always thought I had an anxiety disorder (which I do) and I have been taking Effexor which has been the best so far. I also have found out conclusively in the last year I have Bipolar typer II. In the last week I have switched to Lexapro (doc gave me samples) and noticed the first couple days I felt great, now I'm not doing so hot. My appetite is dramatically increased and my face is swelling a little bit as it does on all the newer AD's except Effexor. It's from water mostly.
>
> Since it's supposed to work faster than other AD's I'm only going to give it two weeks. At that point I'm going back to Effexor and a benzodiazepine which has been the kindest to me so far.
>
> Are you still taking Effexor with the Lexapro? I had NO PROBLEM just dropping the Effexor and having the Lexapro fill in for it. Maybe the combo is too much for you?
>
> Keep us posted. And tell your doctor to relax on the Ativan if she wants to keep a patient. It's not your fault these 'wonder drugs' fail you and Ativan is helpful.
>
> Scott
poster:ayuda
thread:109458
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021122/msgs/128757.html