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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 7839 to 7863 of 8406. Go back in thread:
Posted by silvertonguejen on May 28, 2004, at 11:20:26
In reply to Re: Weight gain » ednababish, posted by LynneDa on May 28, 2004, at 9:29:36
I have had the belly for years now, since going on Paxil about 7 -8 years ago! I have lost track of how many people have asked me when "I am due", when I wasn't pregnant. I had my 3rd child 10 months ago, and was ready to jump into my maternity clothes at 3 months pregnant because my tummy was already so big compared to the rest of me! Isn't that a weird side effect? I have gained a lot of weight over the years on Paxil, but my stomach literally sticks out like I am pregnant now! I always thought it was the Paxil, but when I asked my doctor she said no. Go figure! I am starting week #2 of being on Lex, and week #2 of the paxil withdrawls! This REALLY sucks! I wanted to switch becuase of all the weight gain on Paxil, and the constant fatigue, but I seem to have a greater appetite now than ever on the Paxil. Maybe I will have to try something else. I guess s/e are different for everyone.
> You are too funny!! I love it! The belly is ever-present isn't it. It just looks bigger on me the bigger I am everywhere else. Thanks for the laugh :-)
> ~ Lynne
> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>
> That stupid little belly! I've had it all my life, even when I weighed a skeletal 103 lbs (I'm 5'6). My niece has it and she's a twig in every other respect. I think we should all make peace with the silly thing--not necessarily welcome it per se, but just acknowledge it and begin to ignore it. Maybe then it will go away. Either that, or we should make the symbol of female empowerment. . . "Yeah, up with the tiny-pot!" "Hey girlfriend, pot's looking mighty good today! What you feeding that thing?"
>
>
Posted by Gator on May 28, 2004, at 11:32:05
In reply to Re: Lexapro and the pill, posted by sexylexy on May 27, 2004, at 16:32:31
Hi all!!
I haven't posted for awhile but I read every day. I have increased to 20mgs and I am doing really good. It has been a gradual thing, and I have to stop and realize that I had a good day. I really think that the old me is almost all the way back.
I have also just changed birth control pills. Now I am taking the new one called Seasonal. You only have a period every 3 months. I just started them so I will have to let you know how it goes.
I think about all of you every day, just don't know how to say things well. So I'm not ignoring anyone...just a silent partner.
Take care!!
Gator
Posted by LynneDa on May 28, 2004, at 11:38:10
In reply to Re: Weight Gain, posted by silvertonguejen on May 28, 2004, at 11:20:26
Hi! It is so hard to judge what causes what, but I read a study that said most s/e studies on meds are done only in the first few weeks of usage and weight gain seems to come later on, so the docs don't seem to believe it could be an s/e. I say that the 20 or 30 of us who've posted about the weight gain can't all be wrong!!
Good luck to you with the Lex. I really like the way it has improved my depression and anxiety, but I've never tried anything else to compare. Hang in there thru your transition!!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>I have had the belly for years now, since going on Paxil about 7 -8 years ago! I have lost track of how many people have asked me when "I am due", when I wasn't pregnant. I had my 3rd child 10 months ago, and was ready to jump into my maternity clothes at 3 months pregnant because my tummy was already so big compared to the rest of me! Isn't that a weird side effect? I have gained a lot of weight over the years on Paxil, but my stomach literally sticks out like I am pregnant now! I always thought it was the Paxil, but when I asked my doctor she said no. Go figure! I am starting week #2 of being on Lex, and week #2 of the paxil withdrawls! This REALLY sucks! I wanted to switch becuase of all the weight gain on Paxil, and the constant fatigue, but I seem to have a greater appetite now than ever on the Paxil. Maybe I will have to try something else. I guess s/e are different for everyone.
Posted by LynneDa on May 28, 2004, at 11:44:34
In reply to Re: Lexapro and the pill » sexylexy, posted by Gator on May 28, 2004, at 11:32:05
Thanks Gator, it's nice to hear from you! I'm glad to hear 20mg is working out for you. If you can let us know how the seasonal pill works for you, I'd love to hear. It sounds wonderful!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Hi all!!
>
> I haven't posted for awhile but I read every day. I have increased to 20mgs and I am doing really good. It has been a gradual thing, and I have to stop and realize that I had a good day. I really think that the old me is almost all the way back.
>
> I have also just changed birth control pills. Now I am taking the new one called Seasonal. You only have a period every 3 months. I just started them so I will have to let you know how it goes.
>
> I think about all of you every day, just don't know how to say things well. So I'm not ignoring anyone...just a silent partner.
>
> Take care!!
>
> Gator
Posted by mystic on May 28, 2004, at 17:05:22
In reply to Re: Lexapro and the pill » Gator, posted by LynneDa on May 28, 2004, at 11:44:34
Hey not sure if I asked this post place or not..But does anyone have experience with the lex from 10 going to 15mgs and how long it takes to feel better...I dont think it will ever happen..any input would be appreciated..thanks..mystic
Posted by Mrs. C on May 28, 2004, at 22:35:52
In reply to Re: Lexapro and the pill » sexylexy, posted by Gator on May 28, 2004, at 11:32:05
Hi Gator, what a pleasant surprise to hear from you. I am so glad that things are going well for you. I too have increased to 20 and feel alot happier and less anxious. I say "less" anxious because I do still go through some very tough anxiety issues. But all & all I am happy with the results lex has given me. Good luck to you and hope to hear from you again soon. Mrs. C
Posted by bride2be on May 28, 2004, at 23:49:05
In reply to RE::: hello everyone, posted by mystic on May 28, 2004, at 17:05:22
I WENT FROM 10 TO 20 IN THE SECOND WEEK AND WAS GREAT. NO SIDE EFFECTS AND I HIGHLY RECOMEND AN INCREASE.
Posted by Mariposa on May 31, 2004, at 12:59:23
In reply to Re: Lexapro and the pill, posted by sexylexy on May 27, 2004, at 16:32:31
> Marisposa and everyone on the pill,
> I am wondering how you liked Yasmin. Of course, for me, Allese was what got me in my depression. I would really like to get back on some sort of birth control but do not want to end up depressed now that I am feeling a lot better.
> Any suggestions
>
> PS.. I am seeing an OBGYN who is a hormone specialist soon so hopefully this will help as well.
> Thanks 1000000,
> LexyI really believe BC pills were a major *cause* or contributing factor to my depression. I did not notice a significant difference between Ortho-Novum and Yasmin. I was on Ortho-n for 5 years or so and Yas for 1yr. Have now switched to the patch and not sure of a verdict yet, I like the convenience, and pdoc says it's a better delivery system as it is constant were pills produce *peaks and valleys* in the amounts in your blood.
Posted by Mariposa on May 31, 2004, at 13:09:21
In reply to RE::: hello everyone, posted by mystic on May 28, 2004, at 17:05:22
> Hey not sure if I asked this post place or not..But does anyone have experience with the lex from 10 going to 15mgs and how long it takes to feel better...I dont think it will ever happen..any input would be appreciated..thanks..mystic
I went from 10 to 20mg with no recurrence of bad side effects, felt relief within 2-3 days. A few months back I started feeling like Lex wasn't working so well, and I couldn't get in to pdco, so I increased to 25mg, with no effect for couple of mos. before I could get an appt. Once I saw pdoc he px'd increase to 30mg, and that has helped.
Posted by TJO on May 31, 2004, at 15:54:44
In reply to Re: Weight gain, posted by Nika on May 27, 2004, at 17:11:35
Hi,
I gained 20 lbs at least on Risperdal. Yuk. I am sorta thin anyway but had the "belly". I switched from Risperdal to Seroquel and lost the weight but recently gained some of it back due to eating out in restaurants too much. At least I hope it isn't the Seroquel. I have a gym membership but haven't been going. I like Pilates, it is my favorite exercise class. Nice to know others have the same problem. Right now I weigh 136 and should weigh 122. (I'm 5'3" ands have a small frame.) Being overweight on the Risperdal was awful I felt bloated every am. Good luck to all trying to lose med related weight.Tammy
Posted by vandy on May 31, 2004, at 17:37:26
In reply to Re: Weight gain » ednababish, posted by LynneDa on May 28, 2004, at 9:29:36
No picking on the belly! There are those among us who love it (me, for instance) and will brook no criticism. Besides, God gave it to you. It must be perfect. <grin>
> You are too funny!! I love it! The belly is ever-present isn't it. It just looks bigger on me the bigger I am everywhere else. Thanks for the laugh :-)
> ~ Lynne
> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>
> That stupid little belly! I've had it all my life, even when I weighed a skeletal 103 lbs (I'm 5'6). My niece has it and she's a twig in every other respect. I think we should all make peace with the silly thing--not necessarily welcome it per se, but just acknowledge it and begin to ignore it. Maybe then it will go away. Either that, or we should make the symbol of female empowerment. . . "Yeah, up with the tiny-pot!" "Hey girlfriend, pot's looking mighty good today! What you feeding that thing?"
>
>
Posted by RedHeadRed on June 1, 2004, at 0:16:07
In reply to Re: Wellbutrin as a side dish orgasm problems, posted by comftnumb on December 21, 2002, at 20:48:13
I would just like to say..
My Doc took me OFF of Effexor and put me on to Wellbutrin at the same time. I have always had trouble reaching orgasm (we are talking 40 minutes of my boyfriend's time and nada, zip, pooh..). Now that I am on Wellbutrin, I reach orgasm in under five minutes!
My boyfriend and I are completely and totally amazed.. AMAZED!
I should also add.. I take 2 x 20mg Adderall XR in the morning, along with the 300 mg of Wellbutrin XL. I am on Seasonale as well. (All other drugs held constant - Wellbutrin+ and Effexor- were the only variables)
If you have trouble reaching orgasm, I would highly recommend that you speak to your Doc about Wellbutrin. I searched the internet and have found similiar info.. including a placebo/Wellbutrin study where patients on Wellbutrin experienced orgasm frequencies 3x (?) of those on a placebo. I am shocked and amazed.. and incredibly HAPPY!
> I took Effexor and Wellbutrin together for 4months and I still had the delayed orgasms caused by Effexor. Unfortunately, I don't think the Wellbutrin can erase the sexual side effects of an SSRI. If you aren't able to get orgasms after a few months you might consider just switching to Wellbutrin.
Posted by RedHeadRed on June 1, 2004, at 0:46:40
In reply to Wellbutrin has improved my ability to reach orgasm, posted by RedHeadRed on June 1, 2004, at 0:16:07
I just went through the Effexor weaning process, as per my Doctor's instructions (slowly decreasing the dosage each week).
The following is advice to people getting close to their last week on Effexor:
-Try to get a week off of work following the last day you take a dose of Effexor.. you WILL need it and won't be able to function.
-Drink lots and lots of water (non-stop, you should always have a glass of water with you.. if you get sick of drinking like I did, add some lemon juice to your glass.. it was a big help).
-Inform all family members and friends.. if they cross your path, they may not like what you have to say.. :)
-Close all blinds/drapes in your house. You will want it very dark.. and preferably very cool. The darkness helped me with the brain zaps.
-Take two baths a day.. long long baths, very warm water. Pour plenty of Epson salt into the bath. This helps to draw out impurties and toxins from the skin. Light a candle. Put a towel under your head and soak for at least 20 minutes. Then using a washcloth or a bath brush.. start at the soles of your feet and thoroughly rub your skin to release toxins from your pores.
-Try to find some source of "white noise," such as a fan or airconditioner.. anything with a constant whooshing noise.. helps with brain zaps and dizziness.
-Keep TV volume, music volume.. or whatever, very low. Loud sounds are very instrusive.
-Take 2 to 3 benedryl a day. This REALLY helped me with the diziness/wooziness.
-Relaxing activites, such as watching TV or browsing the internet. I had trouble reading a book for long periods of time. Oh yeah.. when you watch TV.. DO NOT watch anything violent. Try to find neutral or relaxing TV shows or movies (horror flicks, violence, etc. will have a very powerful effect on your during this time.. I am not sure how? Can someone explain?)
-Hit the grocery store and buy plenty of warm, harty foods.. if you are in the mood to eat, you will want something you can snuggle up with.
-Sleep.. sleep.. sleep. Make your bed up very comfy.. lots of soft pillows and such.. you will be spending a lot of time there.
-YOGA! Very relaxing on your system.. avoid positions where you may put your head upside down.. you'll feel sick when you come back to standing.
-Be sure to take your daily vitamins.. also you may wish to include some essential fatty oils. Also take metamucil.. good for digestion and helps to absorb and remove toxins from the system.
-*This tip is a little crazy, but it really seemed to help.. * Buy Aztec Healing Clay from your nature food store and mix with equal parts of Apple Cider Vinegar. Stand in the bathtub and cover yourself with the clay. Wait till dry and rinse off. Again, this helps to remove impurties and toxins from the skin.. our largest organ.
--------
Coming off of Effexor was one of the more challenging things I have ever had to do in my life. I did not feel like myself.. and I felt so sensitive to everything in my environment (almost like an extremely bad hangover). I experienced brain zaps from hell.. I felt like my brain was always two steps behind my body. I had a bit of indigestion.. I felt whoosy and sick to my tummy. All in all it was complete hell, and took a lot of will power to prevent myself from taking another pill to get rid of the symptoms.
Just remember to stay strong.. you CAN do it. Just ensure your environment is dark, cool and quiet.
The worst of the symptoms happened around noon on day two and continued till day four morning.. this is when the symptoms began to lessen. It took about 6 days to get completely back to normal.
This was last week.. I am on day nine now.. I feel almost 100% except that I am a bit more tired then normal.. and every few hours I get a few mild brain zaps.
I can't believe I was on a drug that was this strong.. and effected my body the way that it did.. wow. Next time, I will be sure to research a drug that is prescribed to me BEFORE I begin taking it.. I am so relieved I am off of this drug..
I took the time to write this post and share my tips, because I know what sheer HELL Effexor withdrawal is.. I wish the best of luck -- if you are getting ready to come off of Effexor!
Remember to use boards like this.. even just to read.. I found the support incredibly helpful.
**If anyone else has tips.. please feel free to share!
Posted by watergirl on June 1, 2004, at 12:15:51
In reply to Re: Lexapro and the pill » sexylexy, posted by Mariposa on May 31, 2004, at 12:59:23
Im currently on 20mg of Lexapro. I was supposed to start my new pack of pills (Ortho Tri-Cyclen)yesterday, but have decided to give them up. Im afraid they are a contributing factor with my depression. I gave up my Mirena (IUD) in December because I thought the hormone may have been a factor. But going from one to the other just wasnt a good idea. Im imbalenced enough. I hope it helps.
Best Wishes, Cindy
Posted by Mrs. C on June 1, 2004, at 20:44:30
In reply to Re: Lexapro and the pill, posted by watergirl on June 1, 2004, at 12:15:51
Good luck Cindy. I know that many people on this board have experienced increased depression because of birth control pills. I hope that it helps you to give them up. By the way, make sure to use something else for protection or you may have another problem (diapers, bottles, you get my meaning). Mrs. C
Posted by BLKVETTES on June 3, 2004, at 2:13:48
In reply to How to lessen Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms!, posted by RedHeadRed on June 1, 2004, at 0:46:40
> I just went through the Effexor weaning process, as per my Doctor's instructions (slowly decreasing the dosage each week).
>
> The following is advice to people getting close to their last week on Effexor:
>
> -Try to get a week off of work following the last day you take a dose of Effexor.. you WILL need it and won't be able to function.
>
> -Drink lots and lots of water (non-stop, you should always have a glass of water with you.. if you get sick of drinking like I did, add some lemon juice to your glass.. it was a big help).
>
> -Inform all family members and friends.. if they cross your path, they may not like what you have to say.. :)
>
> -Close all blinds/drapes in your house. You will want it very dark.. and preferably very cool. The darkness helped me with the brain zaps.
>
> -Take two baths a day.. long long baths, very warm water. Pour plenty of Epson salt into the bath. This helps to draw out impurties and toxins from the skin. Light a candle. Put a towel under your head and soak for at least 20 minutes. Then using a washcloth or a bath brush.. start at the soles of your feet and thoroughly rub your skin to release toxins from your pores.
>
> -Try to find some source of "white noise," such as a fan or airconditioner.. anything with a constant whooshing noise.. helps with brain zaps and dizziness.
>
> -Keep TV volume, music volume.. or whatever, very low. Loud sounds are very instrusive.
>
> -Take 2 to 3 benedryl a day. This REALLY helped me with the diziness/wooziness.
>
> -Relaxing activites, such as watching TV or browsing the internet. I had trouble reading a book for long periods of time. Oh yeah.. when you watch TV.. DO NOT watch anything violent. Try to find neutral or relaxing TV shows or movies (horror flicks, violence, etc. will have a very powerful effect on your during this time.. I am not sure how? Can someone explain?)
>
> -Hit the grocery store and buy plenty of warm, harty foods.. if you are in the mood to eat, you will want something you can snuggle up with.
>
> -Sleep.. sleep.. sleep. Make your bed up very comfy.. lots of soft pillows and such.. you will be spending a lot of time there.
>
> -YOGA! Very relaxing on your system.. avoid positions where you may put your head upside down.. you'll feel sick when you come back to standing.
>
> -Be sure to take your daily vitamins.. also you may wish to include some essential fatty oils. Also take metamucil.. good for digestion and helps to absorb and remove toxins from the system.
>
> -*This tip is a little crazy, but it really seemed to help.. * Buy Aztec Healing Clay from your nature food store and mix with equal parts of Apple Cider Vinegar. Stand in the bathtub and cover yourself with the clay. Wait till dry and rinse off. Again, this helps to remove impurties and toxins from the skin.. our largest organ.
>
> --------
>
> Coming off of Effexor was one of the more challenging things I have ever had to do in my life. I did not feel like myself.. and I felt so sensitive to everything in my environment (almost like an extremely bad hangover). I experienced brain zaps from hell.. I felt like my brain was always two steps behind my body. I had a bit of indigestion.. I felt whoosy and sick to my tummy. All in all it was complete hell, and took a lot of will power to prevent myself from taking another pill to get rid of the symptoms.
>
> Just remember to stay strong.. you CAN do it. Just ensure your environment is dark, cool and quiet.
>
> The worst of the symptoms happened around noon on day two and continued till day four morning.. this is when the symptoms began to lessen. It took about 6 days to get completely back to normal.
>
> This was last week.. I am on day nine now.. I feel almost 100% except that I am a bit more tired then normal.. and every few hours I get a few mild brain zaps.
>
> I can't believe I was on a drug that was this strong.. and effected my body the way that it did.. wow. Next time, I will be sure to research a drug that is prescribed to me BEFORE I begin taking it.. I am so relieved I am off of this drug..
>
> I took the time to write this post and share my tips, because I know what sheer HELL Effexor withdrawal is.. I wish the best of luck -- if you are getting ready to come off of Effexor!
>
> Remember to use boards like this.. even just to read.. I found the support incredibly helpful.
>
>
> **If anyone else has tips.. please feel free to share!Sounds like you came off the effexor just a bit fast, especially since your still having brain zaps. Also you can get the same withdrawal symptoms coming off of wellbutrin.
Posted by ramsea on June 3, 2004, at 3:26:42
In reply to Re: How to lessen Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms!, posted by BLKVETTES on June 3, 2004, at 2:13:48
Im sorry if someone already said this. Prozac is being promoted by companies and pdocs as a way to withdraw rom Effexor less sickeningly. Then the Prozac will be discontinued properly. It seems this method cuts down on the horrible stuff described above. By the way. What a fantastic list of ways to take care of oneself! Makes me want to withdraw just to do all those wonderful things. Someone sure does know how to soothe the troubled mind. Thanks for sharing your list. Glad you are feeling better.
Posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 12:36:24
In reply to RE::: hello everyone, posted by Mariposa on May 31, 2004, at 13:09:21
Hey all, on day 4 of Lex, and ready to self-destruct! I was actually on Lex for a couple of months; I was on Paxil for about a year and a half, up to CR 25 mg for depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, and wanted to quit. I switched to Lexapro, mainly to help with the horrible withdrawal I was going through, but I stayed on it a couple of months before deciding to see if I could handle myself without meds. VERY bad timing, as I am going through a very stressful divorce, which just now started to get messy -- I left my husband last summer due to physical/emotional abuse, and general incompatability. I wound up running across the country, and I now have a new job, new home, new life, new love...new everything. I don't want to be on meds, but at this point in time, I don't know what else to do. I have yet to find a pdoc that can work with my 8-5 work schedule, but I have a gp that I see every now and then; she helped me wean off of Paxil with the Lexapro. I didn't have severe side effects then, but maybe I just couldn't tell with the Paxil withdrawal, or maybe it the side effects weren't so bad b/c I was already on a medication. Well, after a few months of no meds, I'm starting from square one. Yesterday morning, I woke up in such a panic, I had no idea what to do. I'd never felt anything like it, and I've had panic attacks before. I was a wreck most of the day, although I felt better in the afternoon. (I take the meds about 10:00-11:00 in the morning.) I went to my salsa dance class with my boyfriend (I don't know what I'd do without him!), and felt great that evening. Had my appetite back and everything. But then I went to bed, and I woke up at 1:00 a.m. in a total panic, and then I was up at 5:30 completely panicked. I almost called in to work so I could get a walk-in for my gp; my appt is on Monday. I started taking 10 mg on Monday, but was too agitated, and cut back to 5 mg yesterday for day 3. Fortunately, I work in a mental health clinic, so I have support here if I need it, although I feel weird going to my coworkers with stuff like this. Today I'm all weepy and tense, even after taking .25 clonazepam. I'm beginning to wonder if this is worth it! Sorry for the long post...just need to let it out.
Posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 13:48:28
In reply to New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 12:36:24
Hi Tweek and welcome! The long post is fine!
I've been on Lex for about 7 months. The first 2 or even 3 weeks were tough, but I've found it to be worth it. My depression is much more under control and my mini-anxiety attacks are few and far between. I had a variety of s/e's at first and some that are still lingering. I've not had the panic attacks as you describe, although I have heard others mention them. If they are something completely new for you, I would recommend talking to your gp about it, pronto - I would call and not wait til next Monday.
Remember, your body's still adjusting and who knows what it will have to go through before it gets used to the chemicals! Maybe increase your clonazepam for this initial time period. Just try to ride it out and remember it's just the meds talking, not the real you! Keep writing, there are many very knowledgeable people on this board and I know they will all share their experiences with you!
~ Lynne
Posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 16:23:35
In reply to Re: New Lex user » Tweek, posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 13:48:28
>
> Remember, your body's still adjusting and who knows what it will have to go through before it gets used to the chemicals! Maybe increase your clonazepam for this initial time period. Just try to ride it out and remember it's just the meds talking, not the real you! Keep writing, there are many very knowledgeable people on this board and I know they will all share their experiences with you!
> ~ Lynne
>I'm actually considering just dropping the Lex and just taking the clonazepam when I need it... I'm still using a bottle that I was prescribed from Nov 2002! That's how infrequently I take them. Or was taking them...I was on .5 mg nightly for 3 months when I first started taking Paxil, and then weaned off them pretty easily. Right now, I'm just feeling between depressed and flat, and it's enough that I'm ready to just stop taking the Lex. I was weepy throughout the morning at work, finally now not crying, but still pretty bad, no mental energy. I've been reading this board throughout the week, and you all have given me a lot of inspiration, even with my reluctance to go back on the meds. I'm wondering if I should pull off until my appt Monday, or just sit tight on the 5 mg a day? *sigh*
Posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 16:31:52
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 16:23:35
> Well, I'm not a doctor, but if you feel you can get through your panic attacks, I would stay on it. I'm afraid you might freak your body out even more if you suddenly stop the Lex. I was a bit of a mess the first week or so on Lex. I wish I would have taken the week off work!
I would also be sure and keep your other med handy. Did you sleep okay besides waking up with a panic attack? Maybe take something to make you sleep through it all (like Benadryl, I mean!). It's a shame we have to take drugs to get us on and off other drugs. I'm sure there's a better way to do it, I just don't know what it is :-). BUT if depression is hurting you, the struggle to get your brain chemistry on the right track just may be worth it!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I'm actually considering just dropping the Lex and just taking the clonazepam when I need it... I'm still using a bottle that I was prescribed from Nov 2002! That's how infrequently I take them. Or was taking them...I was on .5 mg nightly for 3 months when I first started taking Paxil, and then weaned off them pretty easily. Right now, I'm just feeling between depressed and flat, and it's enough that I'm ready to just stop taking the Lex. I was weepy throughout the morning at work, finally now not crying, but still pretty bad, no mental energy. I've been reading this board throughout the week, and you all have given me a lot of inspiration, even with my reluctance to go back on the meds. I'm wondering if I should pull off until my appt Monday, or just sit tight on the 5 mg a day? *sigh*
Posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 16:59:58
In reply to Re: New Lex user » Tweek, posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 16:31:52
The problem is, these panic attacks just feel different from "regular" ones. I haven't had panic attacks in a long time, but the stress from the stuff I'm going through now has been making my anxiety and depression go through the roof! Fortunately, I have 2 nurses in my office, and I was advised to maybe drop down to 2.5 mg until I could get to my doctor, then see what happens then. I guess I can handle that, but it's still tempting just to drop altogether! Grrr...
> > Well, I'm not a doctor, but if you feel you can get through your panic attacks, I would stay on it. I'm afraid you might freak your body out even more if you suddenly stop the Lex. I was a bit of a mess the first week or so on Lex. I wish I would have taken the week off work!
>
> I would also be sure and keep your other med handy. Did you sleep okay besides waking up with a panic attack? Maybe take something to make you sleep through it all (like Benadryl, I mean!). It's a shame we have to take drugs to get us on and off other drugs. I'm sure there's a better way to do it, I just don't know what it is :-). BUT if depression is hurting you, the struggle to get your brain chemistry on the right track just may be worth it!
> ~ Lynne
> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>
>
Posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 17:07:16
In reply to Re: New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 16:59:58
I'm glad you talked to the nurses! I know how horrible a bad divorce can be. You're in unfamiliar territory, you're not in full control of what's going to happen, lots of uncertainties amidst emotionally-charged conversations & decisions. This situation can cause all sorts of anxiety. That's normal!! You'll get through all of this, I promise :-)
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Posted by mystic on June 4, 2004, at 7:38:57
In reply to Re: New Lex user » Tweek, posted by LynneDa on June 3, 2004, at 17:07:16
Tweek..Welcome to the posts...we are all here for you...ups and downs..we take it all..and we give it all.!!!...Ive been on 15mgs of lex for 3 weeks and was on 10mgs for 14 weeks..I still have my ups and downs..I just want to feel normal again or somewhat normal..I hope that you have luck with the meds as it makes life bareable..Please keep posting and it helps to have other peoples experiences..again welcome Mystic
Posted by BTR on June 4, 2004, at 9:58:22
In reply to New Lex user, posted by Tweek on June 3, 2004, at 12:36:24
Tweek,
I have been on Lex for almost 5 weeks. The first 2-3 weeks I was a zombie. Like you I had no mental energy and it was a fight to stay awake throughout the day. I started at 10 mg's/day and am now up to 20 mg a day where I am going to stay to see if this is the right dosage or not. I deal with the same things as you..depression, panic attacks, etc. When I first started taking the Lex my pdoc had me on .75-1.0 mg daily of Klonopin to help with the anxiety which will accompany the start of a new anti-depressant with those of us who are prone to panic attacks.
My advice is to stay on the Lex it WILL get better and to increase your klonopin during the first 2-3 weeks to help with the initial anxiety. Your anxiety should lessen as your body adapts to the Lex. Hope this helps.
I am still not where I want to be but I feel like I am getting better by the day. Take care.
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