![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
[email protected]Shown: posts 3783 to 3807 of 8406. Go back in thread:
Posted by BekkaH on August 1, 2003, at 19:06:23
In reply to Re: where are you getting this melatonin dosage info » joebob, posted by jrbecker on August 1, 2003, at 11:18:08
> > Sorry, I can't seem to locate a good link on line for you that shows the recommended dosage for melatonin is starting at .25mg, but I do remember reading this numerous times and have also heard this from one of my past docs.
>
*************************************************I have also read and heard that lower doses are much better and more effective. By low dose, I mean 0.3 mg or less. I have not seen any brands available in that strength, so you'll have to get a pill cutter. I don't have any literature citations immediately available to back this up, but you might want to do a Medline search under the names of Norman Rosenthal, M.D., Thomas Wehr, M.D. and Michael Terman, M.D. All three have done extensive research in circadian phase shifts, seasonal affective disorder, melatonin, etc.
Bekka
Posted by theump on August 2, 2003, at 0:32:10
In reply to Re: Lexapro update, posted by guyndenver on August 1, 2003, at 19:04:19
Well, I'm a woman so I can't say for men but I have read on this message board that sexual side effects do dissipate on Lex. As for myself I would say it lasted a little over a week, almost would get there but couldn't, I think other posters here called it anorgasmic. Now things are fine if not better. I think Jim or Wayne have had good postings about this.
If you type "sexual side effects" into the search for this site you should come up with past posts dealing with that subject.
I hope this helps and hopefully someone else will speak up from the male point of view.
> Really? And, you have direct experience with this? Because a whole year after Paxil CR and it's still there - the same with any anti-d I have ever been on. I have never taken any anti-d that the sexual side effects ever went away. I have not ever taken Lexapro, and based upon the info on their website, the sexual side effects don't go away in 9% of all men. And, they admit that this number is probably artifically low due to men's lack of willingness to discuss sexual issues with their docs. Can anyone else confirm this assurtion?
>
> > The sexual side effects go away after a week or so. How long have you been taking the Lex?
> >
> >
> >
> > > I just don't get it. Can't anyone out there make an anti-d that doesn't mess with your sexlife? I have tried them all! I am currently on Paxil CR, 12.5mg, for treatment of anxiety. It helps, but it's not worth it any more! I finally got over most of the side effects (been on it for nearly a year) but there is one nagging side effect that I will not tolerate any more and that is the problem with the so-called "delayed ejaculation". I can have sex for hours and never ejaculate without a lot of "manual intervention" and at that, it is very unsatisfying. I was so excited when my doc told me about lexapro and about the reduced side effects. I decided to research it before I switched and I am glad I did. Sounds to me like there is absolutely no difference between lexapro, paxil, celexa - you name them. It is really sad that they have drugs that make you feel good about yourself, make you want to live your life to it's fullest, but takes so much away in the area of one of lifes most basic of activities. Sheesh! Can't somebody do something? I think I will be stopping all anti-d's and dealing with the anxiety on my own - at least then I will not have the added performance anxiety during sex!
> > >
> >
>
>
Posted by guyndenver on August 2, 2003, at 2:20:25
In reply to Re: Lexapro update - sexual side effects, posted by theump on August 2, 2003, at 0:32:10
Thanks for your input. But, I think I will wait until Lex has been out for a bit longer. I read an interesting article I found on webmd about SSRI's and sexual side effects in general. It states that overall, in men, SSRI's create some sort of sexual side effect, whether it be E.D. or "delayed orgasm" in around 10% of those taking them. But, they are now finding that that 10% number isn't even close to the actual number of those effected. They blame the false findings in the clinical trials and post trials to the fact that most men are uncomfortable discussing these problems with their docs. This is not a direct quote, but the jist of the article. So, if on average, SSRI's in general show 10%, and Lexapro (according to their own documentation) shows 9%, I aint gonna hold my breath.
My doc tried the viagra route with me and thus the other issue. I can now go for 4 hours straight and no orgasm. Might sound great to some, but, trust me, it is pure hell! If any company out there actually ever is successfull in figuring this one out, I hope I know someone on the inside because I will mortgage my home to buy their stock! It will out sell all other SSRI's out there.
> Well, I'm a woman so I can't say for men but I have read on this message board that sexual side effects do dissipate on Lex. As for myself I would say it lasted a little over a week, almost would get there but couldn't, I think other posters here called it anorgasmic. Now things are fine if not better. I think Jim or Wayne have had good postings about this.
>
> If you type "sexual side effects" into the search for this site you should come up with past posts dealing with that subject.
>
> I hope this helps and hopefully someone else will speak up from the male point of view.
>
>
> > Really? And, you have direct experience with this? Because a whole year after Paxil CR and it's still there - the same with any anti-d I have ever been on. I have never taken any anti-d that the sexual side effects ever went away. I have not ever taken Lexapro, and based upon the info on their website, the sexual side effects don't go away in 9% of all men. And, they admit that this number is probably artifically low due to men's lack of willingness to discuss sexual issues with their docs. Can anyone else confirm this assurtion?
> >
> > > The sexual side effects go away after a week or so. How long have you been taking the Lex?
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > > I just don't get it. Can't anyone out there make an anti-d that doesn't mess with your sexlife? I have tried them all! I am currently on Paxil CR, 12.5mg, for treatment of anxiety. It helps, but it's not worth it any more! I finally got over most of the side effects (been on it for nearly a year) but there is one nagging side effect that I will not tolerate any more and that is the problem with the so-called "delayed ejaculation". I can have sex for hours and never ejaculate without a lot of "manual intervention" and at that, it is very unsatisfying. I was so excited when my doc told me about lexapro and about the reduced side effects. I decided to research it before I switched and I am glad I did. Sounds to me like there is absolutely no difference between lexapro, paxil, celexa - you name them. It is really sad that they have drugs that make you feel good about yourself, make you want to live your life to it's fullest, but takes so much away in the area of one of lifes most basic of activities. Sheesh! Can't somebody do something? I think I will be stopping all anti-d's and dealing with the anxiety on my own - at least then I will not have the added performance anxiety during sex!
> > > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>
Posted by lil' jimi on August 2, 2003, at 3:58:57
In reply to re: your contributions, i.e., dirurnal variation » lil' jimi, posted by jrbecker on August 1, 2003, at 11:07:43
hi JrBecker,
i agree with BekkaH.
at the risk of re-direction for inadequate med-related-ness for this forum, i would like to extend the praise-for-JB chorus for at least this one post, although it is med-related, insofar as your command of the efficiency, benefits, side-effects and reactions of the meds we all must depend upon, so astonishingly exceeds that of our doctors ... and sharing information about the varying degrees of knowledge about our meds is important to our med-related community.
so, with that failed attempt at a disclaimer, i am exercising the temerity to offer my humble, unsolicited, gentle suggestions:
if it is within your vision, reach for it.
if it within your reach, grab it.
if it within your grasp,
hold on
with all your might.
then
do what you must
to bring this vision
into our world.
please.exercise dogged, tenacious determination
to make this a reality.
pull
with all your might.
set your sights on the aim,
but set your heart on enduring
for the long haul.
exercise the discipline
to pace yourself
so your strength
will see you to the finish line.
obstacles and set backs happen:
expect them; overcome them.
endure.
survive.
achieve this goal.
you have a rare combination:
intelligence;
compassion;
intuition;
coupled with excellent communication/people skills.
the world would be a better place if you were a physician here.
or a research scientist.
go for it.
give it your best shot.
i dare say every poster here would be blessed to be your patient ... someday.
make it possible.
use every opportunity,
benefit,
chance,
option,
credit,
hope,
to fulfill this dream.
make it a reality.try
hard.
grow into the strength to succeed.26 ?
26 is a fantastic age for you to be !
use it
now.
don’t let yourself be twice as old as you are now and wonder,
what happened to the last 26 years?anyway that’s the opinion of this 52 year old man ... who admires you very much.
i just felt i should let you know.thanks for your contributions here and
TAKE CARE !
~ jim
Posted by pollymk on August 2, 2003, at 4:42:06
In reply to Re: Changing to Lexapro from Paxil, posted by reichdon on July 17, 2003, at 10:51:31
Thanks for the posts.
I think I will change from Paxil to Lexpro. When people have changed can you stop the Paxil one day and start the Lexpro the next? Has anyone got the speedy feeling from the Lexpro? I have tired to stop the Paxil before without taking another drug and had withdrawal anxiety that was horrible.
Posted by lil' jimi on August 2, 2003, at 5:35:15
In reply to Re: Lexapro update - sexual side effects, posted by guyndenver on August 2, 2003, at 2:20:25
hi guyndenver,
and my thanks for covering for us there, theump .. ... .. sorry i'm so late ...
guy, i certainly understand your feelings ... frustration can have few sharper definitions ... past posters have shared the misery of the folly of viagra for anorgasmia, the inability to have orgasms ... ... to have endured this as long as you have is infuriating and hardly seems a relief for depression ... all of which you have stated very well.
there have been a number of posts about sexual side effects (hardly "side" effects) on this lexapro thread ... many have been prompted by inquiries by me ... .. ... there would seem to me to be a concensus that lex has less sexual SEs than paxil or effexor ... which i would say is damning lex with faint praise due to paxil's and effexor's notorious reputations for sexual dysfunction of many types, notably decreased libido ... the posts to this thread have mentioned almost no lexapro related loss of libido (of those that have mentioned this, almost all were using other meds as well) and there have been no mentions of erectile dysfuntion.
and all of this information is from my distillation of reading the entire lex thread which extends back more than a year ... not exactly science, especially with my memory for a data base! ... ...
... ... nevertheless, there are consistencies which would suggest some validity to these observations ...my wife was on paxil maybe 15 years ago now and we have regreted it everyday since ... we still struggle to recover her libido, but the greater tragedy was not knowing or ever being told about paxil side effects until very recently ...
i have been on lexapro since march ... ... i had some intense SEs the first few days, but by 2 weeks they all went away ... ...
... ... one of my side effects was anorgasmia ... ... frankly it was frightening, but _within_ that first week i went from a total inabilty to have an orgasm or ejaculate, despite full libido and erectile function ... ... back to orgasmic functon.
... ... in total, this lasted less than a week ... ...actually, i have had to restrain myself posting about sexual function here because i am among a (small?) number of lex users who have had beneficial sexual experience since taking lex ... ... on a message board about meds for anxiety and depression, it isn't really considerate to be celebrating sexual benefits from the drugs you're taking too loudly ... ...
... ... since my anorgasmia went away my oragasms have changed for the better, but i am only giving details if requested, out of respect for the folks suffering who don't need to hear this.... ... so guyndenver, that's my story ... ... after all the studies are done and all the posts posted, there will remain a wide range of possibilities of how lexapro could effect your anorgasmia .... and all of the probabilites won't mean a thing compared to your own, unique, risky experience of trying lexapro for yourself ...
... ... stories i tell don't matter compared to direct experiencei have not taken any other ADs ... but i believe the SSRIs are different from each other, even celexa from lexapro by a great deal, i would say, and that each ssri effects the user differently, but individual variation of the users overwhelms any value from the statistics from studies ... stats can kind of guide you before you take, say, an ssri, but you're on your own after you do take an ssri ...
... ... except we have this forum here (Thanks, Dr. Bob!) to share our experiences, offer information, and to support each other ... ... i am indebted to the people who have posted here ... i have benefitted greatly. ... my thanks to every one.
i wish you the best and i would hope you would keep posting here whether you take any meds or not ... ... it would be great to hear how you are doing ...
...and as my pal Wayne has taught me, we sign out with, his classic ...
TAKE CARE !!!
~ jimp.s. your paxil SEs have endured so long since you quit paxil, i'd wonder if lexapro Could overcome such an established condition ... what does your doc say about your persistent anorgamia?
~ j> Thanks for your input. But, I think I will wait until Lex has been out for a bit longer. I read an interesting article I found on webmd about SSRI's and sexual side effects in general. It states that overall, in men, SSRI's create some sort of sexual side effect, whether it be E.D. or "delayed orgasm" in around 10% of those taking them. But, they are now finding that that 10% number isn't even close to the actual number of those effected. They blame the false findings in the clinical trials and post trials to the fact that most men are uncomfortable discussing these problems with their docs. This is not a direct quote, but the jist of the article. So, if on average, SSRI's in general show 10%, and Lexapro (according to their own documentation) shows 9%, I aint gonna hold my breath.
>
> My doc tried the viagra route with me and thus the other issue. I can now go for 4 hours straight and no orgasm. Might sound great to some, but, trust me, it is pure hell! If any company out there actually ever is successfull in figuring this one out, I hope I know someone on the inside because I will mortgage my home to buy their stock! It will out sell all other SSRI's out there.
>
> > Well, I'm a woman so I can't say for men but I have read on this message board that sexual side effects do dissipate on Lex. As for myself I would say it lasted a little over a week, almost would get there but couldn't, I think other posters here called it anorgasmic. Now things are fine if not better. I think Jim or Wayne have had good postings about this.
> >
> > If you type "sexual side effects" into the search for this site you should come up with past posts dealing with that subject.
> >
> > I hope this helps and hopefully someone else will speak up from the male point of view.
> >
> >
> > > Really? And, you have direct experience with this? Because a whole year after Paxil CR and it's still there - the same with any anti-d I have ever been on. I have never taken any anti-d that the sexual side effects ever went away. I have not ever taken Lexapro, and based upon the info on their website, the sexual side effects don't go away in 9% of all men. And, they admit that this number is probably artifically low due to men's lack of willingness to discuss sexual issues with their docs. Can anyone else confirm this assurtion?
> > >
> > > > The sexual side effects go away after a week or so. How long have you been taking the Lex?
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > > I just don't get it. Can't anyone out there make an anti-d that doesn't mess with your sexlife? I have tried them all! I am currently on Paxil CR, 12.5mg, for treatment of anxiety. It helps, but it's not worth it any more! I finally got over most of the side effects (been on it for nearly a year) but there is one nagging side effect that I will not tolerate any more and that is the problem with the so-called "delayed ejaculation". I can have sex for hours and never ejaculate without a lot of "manual intervention" and at that, it is very unsatisfying. I was so excited when my doc told me about lexapro and about the reduced side effects. I decided to research it before I switched and I am glad I did. Sounds to me like there is absolutely no difference between lexapro, paxil, celexa - you name them. It is really sad that they have drugs that make you feel good about yourself, make you want to live your life to it's fullest, but takes so much away in the area of one of lifes most basic of activities. Sheesh! Can't somebody do something? I think I will be stopping all anti-d's and dealing with the anxiety on my own - at least then I will not have the added performance anxiety during sex!
> > > > >
Posted by bookgurl99 on August 2, 2003, at 6:50:56
In reply to Re: Lexapro update, posted by guyndenver on August 1, 2003, at 17:43:21
i'm a 27-year-old woman, been taking it almost 2 weeks.
no sexual side effects, yeah baby yeah!
Posted by bookgurl99 on August 2, 2003, at 6:54:24
In reply to Re: Changing to Lexapro from Paxil--How to switc, posted by pollymk on August 2, 2003, at 4:42:06
i'd talk to your dr. but you can ask to be able to go straight from one to the other. because they're both ssri's (if i'm correct), it should work. you might have some strange side effects though.
Posted by Capri on August 2, 2003, at 8:05:59
In reply to Re: Changing to Lexapro from Paxil--How to switc, posted by bookgurl99 on August 2, 2003, at 6:54:24
I've changed from one SSRI to another with no lapse.
You may get some side effects but I found they aren't half as bad as when you start an SSRI.
Good Luck!
Posted by vandy on August 2, 2003, at 8:38:35
In reply to Re: Lexapro update, posted by guyndenver on August 1, 2003, at 17:43:21
You don't get it and I don't wonder. I don't have it. I mean the sexual side effects. I'd still be depressed if I did. Whew! Thanks to Lexapro and the Supremem Architect of the Universe the sex is good and, just like a bear stock market rally, it's best just before it's finished. And it finishes. And it doesn't seem to have trouble getting started. I'm taking 20mg. and my wife does 10mg. Neither of us has any complaints. So it doesn't have to be that way.
Now Paxil, was different for me. 'Nuff said.
Don't lose hope! If it works for us maybe it works for you.
> I just don't get it. Can't anyone out there make an anti-d that doesn't mess with your sexlife? I have tried them all! I am currently on Paxil CR, 12.5mg, for treatment of anxiety. It helps, but it's not worth it any more! I finally got over most of the side effects (been on it for nearly a year) but there is one nagging side effect that I will not tolerate any more and that is the problem with the so-called "delayed ejaculation". I can have sex for hours and never ejaculate without a lot of "manual intervention" and at that, it is very unsatisfying. I was so excited when my doc told me about lexapro and about the reduced side effects. I decided to research it before I switched and I am glad I did. Sounds to me like there is absolutely no difference between lexapro, paxil, celexa - you name them. It is really sad that they have drugs that make you feel good about yourself, make you want to live your life to it's fullest, but takes so much away in the area of one of lifes most basic of activities. Sheesh! Can't somebody do something? I think I will be stopping all anti-d's and dealing with the anxiety on my own - at least then I will not have the added performance anxiety during sex!
>
> > I am a Celexa rep, and will be marketing Lexapro once the FDA gives final approval (sometime in August is what we've been told). I have gone to extra training to know the differences between Celexa and Lexapro, and when the samples go to the Dr's, so will the studies (very impressive.)
> > As far as efficacy...yes it will be more effective than Celexa or any antidepressant available...it will also be more tolerable with "side-effects and discontinuation due to adverse events comparable to placebo." That last quote is being allowed by the FDA...awesome. And most importantly...Lexapro is replacing Celexa because the technology to separate the isomers is just now available...so Ritch, you are partially right, but re-patent? Wrong...Celexa will still be available for 3 years before going generic. Dont lump Forest in with some other unethical pharm companies who get FDA approval years in advance, and then don't offer the new drug til the old one goes generic. Forest is moving to Lexapro because studies show Lexapro is better, and all our efforts will be in promoting the better drug. Hard to believe a company is giving up over $5 billion over the next 3 years...I guess the message Forest is sending is that it that sure Lexapro is that good.
>
>
Posted by tm on August 2, 2003, at 9:19:18
In reply to Re: Lexapro update - sexual side effects, posted by guyndenver on August 2, 2003, at 2:20:25
I had the same problem you had with Paxil and I switched to Lex in mid April and I can tell you the problem has gone away. The only problem was I had lost confidence when I switched but that came back and I'm back to normal.
Best of luck Tim
> Thanks for your input. But, I think I will wait until Lex has been out for a bit longer. I read an interesting article I found on webmd about SSRI's and sexual side effects in general. It states that overall, in men, SSRI's create some sort of sexual side effect, whether it be E.D. or "delayed orgasm" in around 10% of those taking them. But, they are now finding that that 10% number isn't even close to the actual number of those effected. They blame the false findings in the clinical trials and post trials to the fact that most men are uncomfortable discussing these problems with their docs. This is not a direct quote, but the jist of the article. So, if on average, SSRI's in general show 10%, and Lexapro (according to their own documentation) shows 9%, I aint gonna hold my breath.
>
> My doc tried the viagra route with me and thus the other issue. I can now go for 4 hours straight and no orgasm. Might sound great to some, but, trust me, it is pure hell! If any company out there actually ever is successfull in figuring this one out, I hope I know someone on the inside because I will mortgage my home to buy their stock! It will out sell all other SSRI's out there.
>
> > Well, I'm a woman so I can't say for men but I have read on this message board that sexual side effects do dissipate on Lex. As for myself I would say it lasted a little over a week, almost would get there but couldn't, I think other posters here called it anorgasmic. Now things are fine if not better. I think Jim or Wayne have had good postings about this.
> >
> > If you type "sexual side effects" into the search for this site you should come up with past posts dealing with that subject.
> >
> > I hope this helps and hopefully someone else will speak up from the male point of view.
> >
> >
> > > Really? And, you have direct experience with this? Because a whole year after Paxil CR and it's still there - the same with any anti-d I have ever been on. I have never taken any anti-d that the sexual side effects ever went away. I have not ever taken Lexapro, and based upon the info on their website, the sexual side effects don't go away in 9% of all men. And, they admit that this number is probably artifically low due to men's lack of willingness to discuss sexual issues with their docs. Can anyone else confirm this assurtion?
> > >
> > > > The sexual side effects go away after a week or so. How long have you been taking the Lex?
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > > I just don't get it. Can't anyone out there make an anti-d that doesn't mess with your sexlife? I have tried them all! I am currently on Paxil CR, 12.5mg, for treatment of anxiety. It helps, but it's not worth it any more! I finally got over most of the side effects (been on it for nearly a year) but there is one nagging side effect that I will not tolerate any more and that is the problem with the so-called "delayed ejaculation". I can have sex for hours and never ejaculate without a lot of "manual intervention" and at that, it is very unsatisfying. I was so excited when my doc told me about lexapro and about the reduced side effects. I decided to research it before I switched and I am glad I did. Sounds to me like there is absolutely no difference between lexapro, paxil, celexa - you name them. It is really sad that they have drugs that make you feel good about yourself, make you want to live your life to it's fullest, but takes so much away in the area of one of lifes most basic of activities. Sheesh! Can't somebody do something? I think I will be stopping all anti-d's and dealing with the anxiety on my own - at least then I will not have the added performance anxiety during sex!
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>
Posted by tm on August 2, 2003, at 9:24:46
In reply to Re: Changing to Lexapro from Paxil--How to switc, posted by pollymk on August 2, 2003, at 4:42:06
my pdoc had me take half of my Paxil dose and my dose of Lex at the same time for one week and then he had me drop the Pax.
Good Luck Tim
> Thanks for the posts.
>
> I think I will change from Paxil to Lexpro. When people have changed can you stop the Paxil one day and start the Lexpro the next? Has anyone got the speedy feeling from the Lexpro? I have tired to stop the Paxil before without taking another drug and had withdrawal anxiety that was horrible.
Posted by joebob on August 2, 2003, at 11:58:58
In reply to Re: where are you getting this melatonin dosage info » joebob, posted by jrbecker on August 1, 2003, at 11:18:08
i use 3 to 6 mg per night, no problems ever
i got the original advidce from james south,m.a....look him up on the net
also see:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1583331336/drbobsvirte00-20
she sometimes advises even more, especially for jet lag
are there any concerns about higher doses?
why would mfr's make them in 3mg doses?best,
joebob
Posted by guyndenver on August 2, 2003, at 12:47:19
In reply to re: Lexapro sexual side effects » guyndenver, posted by lil' jimi on August 2, 2003, at 5:35:15
Thanks, Jim. I appreciate your input on this.
Even though I have been treated for "depression" numerous times over the years, this last bout was with anxiety. I had an attack so severe that I could no longer eat. Everything I tried to swallow got stuck in my throat. After numerous procedures to try to "fix" the problem, my doc suggested that it might be anxiety and put me on Remeron Soltabs. Didn't work, so we tried liquid Prozac with limited results. Well, to make a long story short, I went for over 5 months living on mashed potatoes, yogurt, milkshakes, etc. I lost 30 lbs (not that I couldn't stand to loose 30 lbs, but not the way to do it). After I started eating again and stopped the Prozac, they put me on Paxil CR, 12.5mg to just keep me on an even keel. I had been on regular Paxil in the past and hated it. Paxil CR seemed to be better in all aspects except the sexual effects.
I was in to see my doc two weeks ago and we discussed this all. She said it was up to me what I wanted to do. She told that since I have such an issue with insomnia as well, that she would really like to up my Paxil CR to 25mg and I told her I didn't want to do that because of the sexual side effects. That's when she mentioned Lexapro, or she said I could go off the Paxil for a while and see where I am. So, that was what I opted for. I have been totally off Paxil now for nearly a week (a week Monday) and ALL sexual side effects are gone. What a joy! I am still dealing with the dizzy spells, nausea and all that other crap that happens during withdrawls, but at least now I can have normal sex.
I think I will see how this goes. If there is any sign of my anxiety issues resurfacing, I will have to do something - maybe Lexapro. We will see. I would like to hear more about your experience on Lex, but will respect the others on the site.
> hi guyndenver,
>
> and my thanks for covering for us there, theump .. ... .. sorry i'm so late ...
>
> guy, i certainly understand your feelings ... frustration can have few sharper definitions ... past posters have shared the misery of the folly of viagra for anorgasmia, the inability to have orgasms ... ... to have endured this as long as you have is infuriating and hardly seems a relief for depression ... all of which you have stated very well.
>
> there have been a number of posts about sexual side effects (hardly "side" effects) on this lexapro thread ... many have been prompted by inquiries by me ... .. ... there would seem to me to be a concensus that lex has less sexual SEs than paxil or effexor ... which i would say is damning lex with faint praise due to paxil's and effexor's notorious reputations for sexual dysfunction of many types, notably decreased libido ... the posts to this thread have mentioned almost no lexapro related loss of libido (of those that have mentioned this, almost all were using other meds as well) and there have been no mentions of erectile dysfuntion.
>
> and all of this information is from my distillation of reading the entire lex thread which extends back more than a year ... not exactly science, especially with my memory for a data base! ... ...
> ... ... nevertheless, there are consistencies which would suggest some validity to these observations ...
>
> my wife was on paxil maybe 15 years ago now and we have regreted it everyday since ... we still struggle to recover her libido, but the greater tragedy was not knowing or ever being told about paxil side effects until very recently ...
>
> i have been on lexapro since march ... ... i had some intense SEs the first few days, but by 2 weeks they all went away ... ...
> ... ... one of my side effects was anorgasmia ... ... frankly it was frightening, but _within_ that first week i went from a total inabilty to have an orgasm or ejaculate, despite full libido and erectile function ... ... back to orgasmic functon.
> ... ... in total, this lasted less than a week ... ...
>
> actually, i have had to restrain myself posting about sexual function here because i am among a (small?) number of lex users who have had beneficial sexual experience since taking lex ... ... on a message board about meds for anxiety and depression, it isn't really considerate to be celebrating sexual benefits from the drugs you're taking too loudly ... ...
> ... ... since my anorgasmia went away my oragasms have changed for the better, but i am only giving details if requested, out of respect for the folks suffering who don't need to hear this.
>
> ... ... so guyndenver, that's my story ... ... after all the studies are done and all the posts posted, there will remain a wide range of possibilities of how lexapro could effect your anorgasmia .... and all of the probabilites won't mean a thing compared to your own, unique, risky experience of trying lexapro for yourself ...
> ... ... stories i tell don't matter compared to direct experience
>
> i have not taken any other ADs ... but i believe the SSRIs are different from each other, even celexa from lexapro by a great deal, i would say, and that each ssri effects the user differently, but individual variation of the users overwhelms any value from the statistics from studies ... stats can kind of guide you before you take, say, an ssri, but you're on your own after you do take an ssri ...
>
> ... ... except we have this forum here (Thanks, Dr. Bob!) to share our experiences, offer information, and to support each other ... ... i am indebted to the people who have posted here ... i have benefitted greatly. ... my thanks to every one.
>
> i wish you the best and i would hope you would keep posting here whether you take any meds or not ... ... it would be great to hear how you are doing ...
>
> ...and as my pal Wayne has taught me, we sign out with, his classic ...
> TAKE CARE !!!
> ~ jim
>
> p.s. your paxil SEs have endured so long since you quit paxil, i'd wonder if lexapro Could overcome such an established condition ... what does your doc say about your persistent anorgamia?
> ~ j
>
> > Thanks for your input. But, I think I will wait until Lex has been out for a bit longer. I read an interesting article I found on webmd about SSRI's and sexual side effects in general. It states that overall, in men, SSRI's create some sort of sexual side effect, whether it be E.D. or "delayed orgasm" in around 10% of those taking them. But, they are now finding that that 10% number isn't even close to the actual number of those effected. They blame the false findings in the clinical trials and post trials to the fact that most men are uncomfortable discussing these problems with their docs. This is not a direct quote, but the jist of the article. So, if on average, SSRI's in general show 10%, and Lexapro (according to their own documentation) shows 9%, I aint gonna hold my breath.
> >
> > My doc tried the viagra route with me and thus the other issue. I can now go for 4 hours straight and no orgasm. Might sound great to some, but, trust me, it is pure hell! If any company out there actually ever is successfull in figuring this one out, I hope I know someone on the inside because I will mortgage my home to buy their stock! It will out sell all other SSRI's out there.
> >
> > > Well, I'm a woman so I can't say for men but I have read on this message board that sexual side effects do dissipate on Lex. As for myself I would say it lasted a little over a week, almost would get there but couldn't, I think other posters here called it anorgasmic. Now things are fine if not better. I think Jim or Wayne have had good postings about this.
> > >
> > > If you type "sexual side effects" into the search for this site you should come up with past posts dealing with that subject.
> > >
> > > I hope this helps and hopefully someone else will speak up from the male point of view.
> > >
> > >
> > > > Really? And, you have direct experience with this? Because a whole year after Paxil CR and it's still there - the same with any anti-d I have ever been on. I have never taken any anti-d that the sexual side effects ever went away. I have not ever taken Lexapro, and based upon the info on their website, the sexual side effects don't go away in 9% of all men. And, they admit that this number is probably artifically low due to men's lack of willingness to discuss sexual issues with their docs. Can anyone else confirm this assurtion?
> > > >
> > > > > The sexual side effects go away after a week or so. How long have you been taking the Lex?
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > I just don't get it. Can't anyone out there make an anti-d that doesn't mess with your sexlife? I have tried them all! I am currently on Paxil CR, 12.5mg, for treatment of anxiety. It helps, but it's not worth it any more! I finally got over most of the side effects (been on it for nearly a year) but there is one nagging side effect that I will not tolerate any more and that is the problem with the so-called "delayed ejaculation". I can have sex for hours and never ejaculate without a lot of "manual intervention" and at that, it is very unsatisfying. I was so excited when my doc told me about lexapro and about the reduced side effects. I decided to research it before I switched and I am glad I did. Sounds to me like there is absolutely no difference between lexapro, paxil, celexa - you name them. It is really sad that they have drugs that make you feel good about yourself, make you want to live your life to it's fullest, but takes so much away in the area of one of lifes most basic of activities. Sheesh! Can't somebody do something? I think I will be stopping all anti-d's and dealing with the anxiety on my own - at least then I will not have the added performance anxiety during sex!
> > > > > >
>
Posted by Doug in PA on August 2, 2003, at 14:19:43
In reply to Re: Changing to Lexapro from Paxil--How to switc, posted by pollymk on August 2, 2003, at 4:42:06
I made the switch in one day. I had a terrible time. The Lex did not seem to cut in for a month or more while the withdrawl symptomes from the paxil were terrible. Every day my depression seemed to get worse. I wish that I had not listened to the doctor and just tapered off Paxil while taking lex. But keep in mind that the reason that there are so many posts on this site is because everybody reacts (at least a little) differently to the same Rx. Even two months on the Lex I feel like that old Paul Simon song..."Still crazy after all these years."
Doug in PA> Thanks for the posts.
>
> I think I will change from Paxil to Lexpro. When people have changed can you stop the Paxil one day and start the Lexpro the next? Has anyone got the speedy feeling from the Lexpro? I have tired to stop the Paxil before without taking another drug and had withdrawal anxiety that was horrible.
Posted by mph-speedy on August 2, 2003, at 15:54:07
In reply to re: Lexapro sexual side effects, posted by guyndenver on August 2, 2003, at 12:47:19
From one menapausal female's perspective, lex has helped libido and although delays orgasm, enhances the whole experience. I was suffering from a kind of physical pain from being touched. It's hard to explain. Sex is more mellow now. Crazy? Maybe, but before the lex I was just wound too tight. Also, have never had a problem having orgasms, and am not at all uptight about sex.
Posted by lil' jimi on August 3, 2003, at 0:33:51
In reply to re: Lexapro sexual side effects, posted by guyndenver on August 2, 2003, at 12:47:19
hi guyndenver,
you're welcome ... ... anytime.
... ... (see below)> Thanks, Jim. I appreciate your input on this.
>
> Even though I have been treated for "depression" numerous times over the years, this last bout was with anxiety. I had an attack so severe that I could no longer eat. Everything I tried to swallow got stuck in my throat. After numerous procedures to try to "fix" the problem, my doc suggested that it might be anxiety and put me on Remeron Soltabs. Didn't work, so we tried liquid Prozac with limited results. Well, to make a long story short, I went for over 5 months living on mashed potatoes, yogurt, milkshakes, etc. I lost 30 lbs (not that I couldn't stand to loose 30 lbs, but not the way to do it). After I started eating again and stopped the Prozac, they put me on Paxil CR, 12.5mg to just keep me on an even keel. I had been on regular Paxil in the past and hated it. Paxil CR seemed to be better in all aspects except the sexual effects.
>
> I was in to see my doc two weeks ago and we discussed this all. She said it was up to me what I wanted to do. She told that since I have such an issue with insomnia as well, that she would really like to up my Paxil CR to 25mg and I told her I didn't want to do that because of the sexual side effects. That's when she mentioned Lexapro, or she said I could go off the Paxil for a while and see where I am. So, that was what I opted for. I have been totally off Paxil now for nearly a week (a week Monday) and ALL sexual side effects are gone. What a joy! I am still dealing with the dizzy spells, nausea and all that other crap that happens during withdrawls, but at least now I can have normal sex.
>
> I think I will see how this goes. If there is any sign of my anxiety issues resurfacing, I will have to do something - maybe Lexapro. We will see. I would like to hear more about your experience on Lex, but will respect the others on the site.
>
> > hi guyndenver,
> >
> > and my thanks for covering for us there, theump .. ... .. sorry i'm so late ...
> >
> > guy, i certainly understand your feelings ... frustration can have few sharper definitions ... past posters have shared the misery of the folly of viagra for anorgasmia, the inability to have orgasms ... ... to have endured this as long as you have is infuriating and hardly seems a relief for depression ... all of which you have stated very well.
> >
> > there have been a number of posts about sexual side effects (hardly "side" effects) on this lexapro thread ... many have been prompted by inquiries by me ... .. ... there would seem to me to be a consensus that lex has less sexual SEs than paxil or effexor ... which i would say is damning lex with faint praise due to paxil's and effexor's notorious reputations for sexual dysfunction of many types, notably decreased libido ... the posts to this thread have mentioned almost no lexapro related loss of libido (of those that have mentioned this, almost all were using other meds as well) and there have been no mentions of erectile dysfunction.
> >
> > and all of this information is from my distillation of reading the entire lex thread which extends back more than a year ... not exactly science, especially with my memory for a data base! ... ...
> > ... ... nevertheless, there are consistencies which would suggest some validity to these observations ...
> >
> > my wife was on paxil maybe 15 years ago now and we have regretted it everyday since ... we still struggle to recover her libido, but the greater tragedy was not knowing or ever being told about paxil side effects until very recently ...
> >
> > i have been on lexapro since march ... ... i had some intense SEs the first few days, but by 2 weeks they all went away ... ...
> > ... ... one of my side effects was anorgasmia ... ... frankly it was frightening, but _within_ that first week i went from a total inability to have an orgasm or ejaculate, despite full libido and erectile function ... ... back to orgasmic function.
> > ... ... in total, this lasted less than a week ... ...
> >
> > actually, i have had to restrain myself posting about sexual function here because i am among a (small?) number of lex users who have had beneficial sexual experience since taking lex ... ... on a message board about meds for anxiety and depression, it isn't really considerate to be celebrating sexual benefits from the drugs you're taking too loudly ... ...
> > ... ... since my anorgasmia went away my orgasms have changed for the better, but i am only giving details if requested, out of respect for the folks suffering who don't need to hear this.
> >
> > ... ... so guyndenver, that's my story ... ... after all the studies are done and all the posts posted, there will remain a wide range of possibilities of how lexapro could effect your anorgasmia .... and all of the probabilities won't mean a thing compared to your own, unique, risky experience of trying lexapro for yourself ...
> > ... ... stories i tell don't matter compared to direct experience
> >
> > i have not taken any other ADs ... but i believe the SSRIs are different from each other, even celexa from lexapro by a great deal, i would say, and that each ssri effects the user differently, but individual variation of the users overwhelms any value from the statistics from studies ... stats can kind of guide you before you take, say, an ssri, but you're on your own after you do take an ssri ...
> >
> > ... ... except we have this forum here (Thanks, Dr. Bob!) to share our experiences, offer information, and to support each other ... ... i am indebted to the people who have posted here ... i have benefitted greatly. ... my thanks to every one.
> >
> > i wish you the best and i would hope you would keep posting here whether you take any meds or not ... ... it would be great to hear how you are doing ...
> >
> > ...and as my pal Wayne has taught me, we sign out with, his classic ...
> > TAKE CARE !!!
> > ~ jim
> >
> > p.s. your paxil SEs have endured so long since you quit paxil, i'd wonder if lexapro Could overcome such an established condition ... what does your doc say about your persistent anorgamia?
> > ~ j
> >
> > > Thanks for your input. But, I think I will wait until Lex has been out for a bit longer. I read an interesting article I found on webmd about SSRI's and sexual side effects in general. It states that overall, in men, SSRI's create some sort of sexual side effect, whether it be E.D. or "delayed orgasm" in around 10% of those taking them. But, they are now finding that that 10% number isn't even close to the actual number of those effected. They blame the false findings in the clinical trials and post trials to the fact that most men are uncomfortable discussing these problems with their docs. This is not a direct quote, but the jist of the article. So, if on average, SSRI's in general show 10%, and Lexapro (according to their own documentation) shows 9%, I aint gonna hold my breath.
> > >
> > > My doc tried the viagra route with me and thus the other issue. I can now go for 4 hours straight and no orgasm. Might sound great to some, but, trust me, it is pure hell! If any company out there actually ever is successfull in figuring this one out, I hope I know someone on the inside because I will mortgage my home to buy their stock! It will out sell all other SSRI's out there.
> > >my reply:
.... .... i had gotten a mistaken impression that you'd been quit from paxil longer .... .... making the transition has hardly ever been reported as easy
... ... i'd have to say, especially for our anxiety sufferers ... many times the initial start up lex SEs include making our anxiety symptoms worse ... some folks have been medicated for 2 weeks with anti-anxiety med before beginning lexapro ...
i thought this post by Larry Hoover would be valuable info for all of our anxiety disorder folks ... (Lar is another of our valuable resources here at pBab, along with JB (jrbecker) and Ron Hill):http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030728/msgs/247337.html
and this is a great link , which my brother-in-lexapro, Wayne has offered here more than once :
http://panicdisorder.about.com/features/blmed1.htmthe shortest version of the rest of my story ... (because you asked) is that my orgasms have improved, dramatically, since i have recovered from my initial lex-induced anorgasmia ... dramatically ...
... long version ... i didn't need any improvement(s) in my sexual function and certainly didn't expect any ... ... my wife's experience with paxil made me leery when my doctor said there might be some sexual side effects ... ... i feared the threat to libido the most, of course, from my wife's experience... ....
..
... so going from no orgasmic, erectile, libido dysfunction before lexapro, ... by the second day, orgasm became impossible ... surprisingly i was not alarmed as much as amazed by such total orgasm dysfunction, while having complete libido drive and erectile function ... it quickly became apparent to me that there was an impenetrable biochemical barrier between me and orgasm ... it struck me as bizarre that libido, erectile and orgasm functions were so distinct and separable ... ...
... about this time, among my other SEs (sweating spells, depersonalization, fatigue, panic attack(s), vivid dreams, some deal with my appetite), i had this new challenge to urinating ... it took a focused deliberate approach to do what was an autonomic response before, but i also noticed this tingling sensation at the end of my penis ... a not-quite-numbness ... that i also noticed some at the tips of my fingers and toes and my nose ... and this seemed more salient when i would have an anorgasmic episode
... ... while it lasted, one is in unrelieved auto-foreplay ... ...
... ... five days later i recovered ...
... however, lexapro had brought me a hyperawareness of many aspects of my experience: my feelings; my appetite; my sleep; my perceptions, sharpness of vision, vividness of color; acuteness of sound, especially music, taste of food ... ... this included a fuller perception of my anorgasmia and a heighten awareness as it went away ... ... by the seventh day after beginning lexapro i had recovered more than my former full orgasmic response ... .. .... build up is more dramatic ...
... anticipation, more intense, more confidence inspiring, more enjoyable ... ...
... and orgasm has become much more intense, longer in duration, multifaceted, more deeply satisfying ... ... this is a situation which went from just sensational before to stunningly spectacular now ... ...... ... then all my other SEs went away
... my first day of lex i took 10 mg
... second day i decreased to 5 mg, where i stayed for a month, then i went back to 10 mg ... .. ... my anorgasmia returned for anther 5 days ... then faded back into the new specatular state i have described ... ... i continue to take 10 mg a day ... ...i would only hope lexapro could help you as much as it has benefited me .. ... .. or even half as much ... ... but we all know that there can be no guarantees ...
good luck to you ... do keep on touch .. ... we are grateful for everyone's posts ... ... please let us have your updates here ... i'd like to know how you're doing ... ... and ...
TAKE CARE !!!
~ jim
Posted by lil' jimi on August 4, 2003, at 11:14:48
In reply to Re: Changing to Lexapro from Paxil--How to switc » bookgurl99, posted by Capri on August 2, 2003, at 8:05:59
hi Capri,
how many days of lexapro are we?
what's our dosage now?
how's the anxiety?
other SEs?How you doing?
did you see the link i posted from Larry Hoover about the nutritional supplements for anxiety?
are we planning on taking any magnesium or niacinamide ... yet?did you know that i worry about you out there?
hang in there ... let me hear from you and
TAKE CARE !!!
~ jim
Posted by Rich B on August 4, 2003, at 13:59:11
In reply to Re: Lexapro Withdrawal Dizziness, posted by FRND4LF on July 31, 2003, at 22:22:46
Hi Micheke and all, I am on day 3 of being totally off Lexapro. Today is better than yesterday. Yesterday was bad. I was dizzy, very tired, and depressed. Today I am dizzy but I am not that tired and I am not depressed at all. The dizziness today is not as bad as it was the other two times I stopped taking it so it appears that the weaning process of wilddling down a pill to almost nothing may have helped.
This is my plan for the rest of the week if I do have problems. At work, I plan on keeping my head buried in my monitor and keep away the dizziness and to keep myself occupied. For the evening hours, I am not going to worry about getting anything done or accomplishing anything. I rented a bunch of movies so I will watch movies and eat lots of comfort foods. I think if I baby myself like I am sick, I will get through it much easier than if I try to go about my normal life, only to be dizzy, depressed and extremely tired. Once I adopted that philosophy last night I felt much better. So far so good. Maybe I’ll get lucky and it will be all downhill from today on out. I’ll keep you posted.
Rich
P.S. Micheke, how are you making out?
Posted by Capri on August 4, 2003, at 17:58:49
In reply to re: lil' jimi wants to know! » Capri, posted by lil' jimi on August 4, 2003, at 11:14:48
Hi Jim,
I have a lot to tell you..No more Lexapro.
I felt it was helping with my anxiety. My brain felt fried and I couldn't remember what I did 2 minutes ago. I had no motivation and was tired. I was only taking 5mg. When I increased it I had bad dizziness and fogginess.
I think these AD's just aren't good for me. This doc wants to try me on Depakote. I don't know much about it and not sure I want to try it.
I'm going to think about it for a little bit and then see what I'll do next. Might just take Klonopin for awhile and see how I feel.
How are you?
Thanks for asking about me. I really appreciate you taking the time to care.
Capri
Posted by micheke on August 4, 2003, at 18:09:27
In reply to Re: Lexapro Withdrawal Dizziness, posted by Rich B on August 4, 2003, at 13:59:11
Hey Rich:
Great to hear that you are off for 3 days and counting. I am not as lucky...yet. I am stuck on 2.5mg. I have been depressed and a bit anxious about trying to cut down further. I am considering contacting my Dr. to see if there's anything I can do to help this along. Maybe if there's anything mild I can take temporarily to ease the withdrawal. I tried Xanax but it didn't help much. I think that I just don't want to deal with the dizziness one more time and I'm so busy right now I don't have much time to baby myself. Sometimes I wonder if just staying on the lexapro is easier. Not something I want to do though. I'll probably wait a couple of days and then start the process of cutting the pill down further. Keep me updated on your progress...your success is my hope.-Micheke
Posted by lil' jimi on August 4, 2003, at 18:32:48
In reply to re: lil' jimi wants to know! » lil' jimi, posted by Capri on August 4, 2003, at 17:58:49
hi Capri!
> I have a lot to tell you..No more Lexapro.
Wow and a half!
>
> I felt it was helping with my anxiety. My brain felt fried and I couldn't remember what I did 2 minutes ago. I had no motivation and was tired. I was only taking 5mg. When I increased it I had bad dizziness and fogginess.
>sounds like you made the right choice ... i have always been concerned about lex wtih your anxiety ...
> I think these AD's just aren't good for me. This doc wants to try me on Depakote. I don't know much about it and not sure I want to try it.
>
> I'm going to think about it for a little bit and then see what I'll do next. Might just take Klonopin for awhile and see how I feel.might want to try checing out posts about Depakote ... ... and maybe do searches in the web too ... could even try posting a new thread asking for Depakote advice .... maybe?
>
> How are you?not bad at all .... thanks for asking!
>
> Thanks for asking about me. I really appreciate you taking the time to care.easily done ... my pleasure ... good to read you ...
best to you! ... .... thanks for posting back to me! .... .... and let me know how no lexapro is going!
take good care!!
~ jim
Posted by Capri on August 4, 2003, at 21:47:17
In reply to re: lil' jimi wants to know! » Capri, posted by lil' jimi on August 4, 2003, at 11:14:48
Hey Jim,
Where is that post on the nutritional suppl? I take a multi vitamin but not sure that is enough. Do you know anything about Tyrosine???
Thanks!!
Capri
Posted by Bela on August 5, 2003, at 15:00:18
In reply to Re: Lexapro Withdrawal Dizziness » Rich B, posted by micheke on August 4, 2003, at 18:09:27
Since there has been considerable discussion about withdrawal problems with Lexapro, I am curious as to whether anyone has read either Joseph Glenmullen's book, "Prozac Backlash" or any of Peter Breggin's several books about the negatives of anti-depressants, including "The Antidepressant Fact Book" and "Your Drug May Be Your Problem" among others. If you have read any of these, I would appreciate your thoughts on their usefulness if one is trying to get off ADs and back to a normal sex life, etc.
Bela
Posted by theump on August 5, 2003, at 20:06:14
In reply to Re: Lexapro Withdrawal Dizziness, posted by Bela on August 5, 2003, at 15:00:18
I started Lex about 2 months ago, taking 10mg per day. I have had no major side effects, actually nothing but the usual week long sexual effects and some teeth clenching. I've felt very, very lucky!
However, I saw my doctor today and he wants me to up my dose to 20mg. I know I've read a lot of posts about this, but I'm going to ask again. Should I go up the full 10mg to start or should I go up to 15 and if so, for how long? And then after that time go to 20mg? I'm afraid to mess with the dose because I'm afraid of the side effects so many of you have been experiencing. But, at the same time, "the light" hasn't come on yet.
Thank you for the advice!
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