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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by nemo kitty on October 20, 2003, at 1:59:15
In reply to Re: Carb cravings, posted by ANXIETY ANN on March 24, 2003, at 10:42:52
> > Hi all, I think the carb craving thing is a side effect. I had that on zoloft, after being on it for about 4 months, I started craving Lucky Charms cereal. My hubby would stop on the way home from work and get me a box. A box would last me about 21/2 days. It was crazy, I would carry the stupid box around in the living room! He told his work buddy about it and he didnt believe him until he walked in our house and there were the lucky charms beside of me. I went from 102lbs to 125lbs in 5 to 6 months on zoloft. I saw a little booklet in the grocery store by the counter about SSRI's and carb craving but didnt pick it up as I was already off the zoloft when I saw it. I also believe I read these meds can affect our sugar levels and it seems I read they may even cause a temporary type of diabetes. I didnt pay much attention to the info because I thought I would never take these meds again. I guess the craving and eating too much sugar might alter our sugar levels. I am hoping the cravings dont hit with lexapro. I have been on a little over two months and so far, so good. I am sleeping too much but am not anxious or as depressed.
>
> hi Donia,
> Its been a while since I posted on this site. I have been on Lexapro for about 6 months. I am taking Lexapro for Anxiety and panic as well as some depression. Before Lexapro i took effexor for about 1 year. while I was on effexor I went from 125 to 140lbs which made me more depressed because no matter how much I exercised or how little i ate i couldn't lose weight. Now its starting again with Lexapro. I got back down to 123lbs but since Ive been on Lexapro i've gained about 5 lbs in 6 months not only that but I have terrible cravings for sugar (my favorite is mentos; I eat them packs at a time!)I can't take any of the weight loss meds(anything over the counter with caffiene) because it makes my anxiety much worse. I guess what I'm complaning about is this: Its too bad that it seems as though we have to trade being less anxious or depressed for being chubby or fat. It doesn't seem a very good trade off does it?
> ANXIETY ANN
It is true!! I also have been on Lexipro for 3 weeeks now. I want to eat everything...especially candy, doughnuts, chips...everything junkie!! This is VERY unusual for me. I was on Wellbutrin sr and ate very well without crazy cravings!
*Nemo Kitty
Posted by PHV on October 20, 2003, at 6:53:59
In reply to Re: Carb cravings, posted by nemo kitty on October 20, 2003, at 1:59:15
Carb cravings are driving me crazy. I sat home all weekend w/ nothing to do - and ate more pasta than a person should eat all week. I've been on Lex for three months and have had to buy an entirely new winter wardrobe because I can't fit into my clothes from last year. I started gaining weight from my depression - and it continues w/ the Lex. I was really hopeful these carb cravings would go away once I started the Lex - but they only seem to have gotten worse. I've had to cut out the caffeine as well - because it makes my anxiety levels out of control. I am not happy putting on so much weight. It is VERY depressing . . .
Posted by Wildflower on October 20, 2003, at 8:51:25
In reply to Re: Ladies - Any PMS Type SE, posted by ginger C on October 19, 2003, at 17:52:42
I haven't had any different PMS symptoms but I can tell you that my period has actually gotten heavier since starting Lex. Is anyone else experiencing this?
Posted by ginger C on October 20, 2003, at 10:08:52
In reply to Re: Ladies - Any PMS Type SE, posted by Wildflower on October 20, 2003, at 8:51:25
I have noticed that my periods seem to last longer than before I started on Lex
Posted by Scribbler on October 20, 2003, at 14:57:52
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite » Scribbler, posted by JohnR on October 19, 2003, at 22:49:43
John, thanks for your concern about my appetite. I seem to take two steps forward and one back -- a strange dance -- because today I'm all gurgly inside.
I'm wondering if it makes a difference if you take Lex WITH food or WITHOUT; i.e. on an empty stomach or after a meal? Anyone have any ideas on this? I've tried both. The literature says it doesn't matter.
Also, this is Day #8 for me and I'm still feeling anxious. I have two public speaking engagements this coming weekend and one is with a banquet (yikes!). So, okay, I managed to eat like a pig when we had guests for dinner this last weekend after a week of nausea, apple slices and orange juice, but what are the odds that I'll soon not dread this coming Fri/Sat? Sure, I can get by with a little Valium like I always did, but isn't this what I went through the disgusting side effects of last week for? To calm down? Maybe I'm rushing things, looking for results too quickly. Like I said, it's a strange dance. The nice part is, we're all holding hands.
Posted by Esmarelda on October 20, 2003, at 15:08:03
In reply to Anxious because I still am., posted by Scribbler on October 20, 2003, at 14:57:52
Not to be discouraging, but it took about 5-6 weeks for Lex to abate the anxiousness and depression for me. It was well worth it. I would have some good days and bad days. I wish you well this weekend.
Posted by hockeygirlcanada on October 20, 2003, at 15:19:05
In reply to Re: Anxious because I still am. » Scribbler, posted by Esmarelda on October 20, 2003, at 15:08:03
> Not to be discouraging, but it took about 5-6 weeks for Lex to abate the anxiousness and depression for me. It was well worth it. I would have some good days and bad days. I wish you well this weekend.
Hi,
are you taking Lexapro primarily for anxiety or depression? And how does it work for you. I have been on every different kind of med now, no relief.
any info would be great!
Thank You
Posted by Esmarelda on October 20, 2003, at 15:25:57
In reply to Re: Anxious because I still am., posted by hockeygirlcanada on October 20, 2003, at 15:19:05
I am taking Lex primarily for depression, but I had severe anxiety in the mornings that went hand in hand with the depression. The knots in the stomach and feeling like I couldn't face the world. Lex is the only thing that has ever helped with that feeling. It worked on the depression, too. I rarely feel even a twinge of anxiety any more and can actually get out of bed every morning. I think it is a miracle drug. The depression, however, was my main focus. I hope this has helped and hope that you do well on it!
Posted by Scribbler on October 20, 2003, at 15:28:21
In reply to Re: Anxious because I still am. » Scribbler, posted by Esmarelda on October 20, 2003, at 15:08:03
Esmarelda, that's not bad news, actually -- in six weeks we're flying west for a visit with family members in Arizona and I haven't flown since before 9/11. Of course I have been dreading this trip Big Time since we made our reservations, so knowing there's a prospect of feeling less anxious and depressed by then helps me relax just a little bit. Thanks!
Posted by Esmarelda on October 20, 2003, at 15:37:32
In reply to Re: Anxious because I still am., posted by Scribbler on October 20, 2003, at 15:28:21
Just relax and have fun! I have flown hundreds of times since 9/11 even out of the country and even to Arizona with no mishaps whatsoever. You will be fine -- just remember to pack the Lexapro!
Posted by Mariposa on October 20, 2003, at 16:26:17
In reply to Anxious because I still am., posted by Scribbler on October 20, 2003, at 14:57:52
Have been on Lex since Feb. DX - depression and PMDD. Lex has also been wonderful for me, lost 10lbs. and went from a 10 to a 6 - and the weight NEEDED to come off, I was overweight. I can get up in the morning and go to work without thinking about calling in sick. I don't get customer complaints and write ups like I did before Lex. Lex has essentially *cured* my insomnia - which I have suffered most of adult life. Had it rough in the beginning w/bad se's. Only se I still experience is slight clenching. Do have some down days, but I get through them and then the next days is better...Recently flew to see Mom for her 73 Birthday, hadn't flown in about 7 yrs., HATE to fly!
Currently @ 20mg.I can only hope everyone has as good results, and that they last (NO poop-out!!!)- Best of luck to us all.~~~8|8
Posted by hockeygirlcanada on October 20, 2003, at 17:01:28
In reply to Re: Anxious because I still am., posted by Mariposa on October 20, 2003, at 16:26:17
Did you have problems with anxiety? I have severe Generalized Anxiety.
Posted by JohnR on October 20, 2003, at 17:25:51
In reply to Anxious because I still am., posted by Scribbler on October 20, 2003, at 14:57:52
Hey Scribbler,
I'll bet you a nickel your upset stomach takes care of itself in short order. Like you said, **two** steps forward, one step back. Anyway you look at it you're headed in the right direction.I've been taking mine in the mornings on an empty stomach. I typically don't eat breakfast. I've thought about taking it at dinnertime but haven't tried that.
John
Posted by Mariposa on October 20, 2003, at 17:44:34
In reply to Re: Anxious because I still am. » Mariposa, posted by hockeygirlcanada on October 20, 2003, at 17:01:28
> Did you have problems with anxiety? I have severe Generalized Anxiety.
I had several anxiety attacks around wk. 4-5, none since then. Taking Lex for depression.~~~8|8
Posted by melbob on October 20, 2003, at 22:35:25
In reply to Re: Help! First day: Nausea and Lexapro, posted by vandy on October 13, 2003, at 22:32:39
OR you could ask your doc for a few phenergan...that's what i did when i started the effexor ex: had nausea, called doc, she called me in some phenergan pills to the pharmacy...
melbob
Posted by LynneDa on October 21, 2003, at 10:24:41
In reply to Re: Help! First day: Nausea and Lexapro, posted by vandy on October 13, 2003, at 22:32:39
I just took my first one this morning. I had a bowl of oatmeal first, felt nauseous on the way to work so immediately began eating crackers and taking deep breaths when I got here - just like morning sickness, I keep telling myself, and I lived through that! It's now 10am, so far so good!
Hang in there, I know it is hard to take something you know could make you sick, but all the literature says it gets better over time! If this drug is really "all that", it will be worth it!!I'll tell you....it gets better. Now to the real nitty gritty: how do you take a pill tomorrow? Here are some suggestions:
>
> 1. Put the pill on the counter top and leave the room. Put a handkerchief or a scarf over your nose and mouth and sneak in, grab the pill, stuff it in your mouth, rip off the scarf and laugh fiendishly as you swallow it with a soft drink of your liking.
>
> 2. Cut it in half, find two yummy morsels small enough to swallow easily but big enough to taste. Stuff the half a pill in each morsel. Swallow one. Wait a delicious interval. Swallow the other. You could laugh fiendishly here, too. But it would probably be better to grin.
>
> 3. Get a piece of salt water taffy, chocolate fudge or something that makes your mouth water. Take pill. Eat reward. Smirking is appropriate with this approach.
>
> 4. Get some green jello and use the powder on your face to look like Hulk. Snarl at pill. Curse it. Wolf it down.
>
> I'm sure this is only a start. If you come up with better ones be sure to share. I can only think of these because I waited 84 days for the Lex to get me home. I could never do it when I felt like you do. I can't wait for you to join me.
>
> Keep the faith..
> Love and Kisses from Vandy
>
> > I took my first Lexapro today for anxiety and by tonight felt really weird, light-headed and nauseated. Threw up dinner. Tell me this gets better; how can I take another pill tomorrow?
>
>
Posted by Scribbler on October 21, 2003, at 11:16:12
In reply to Re: Help! First day: Nausea and Lexapro » vandy, posted by LynneDa on October 21, 2003, at 10:24:41
LynnDa, hang in there. I felt really crummy the first day but reassurance from this gang kept me going and the second day I felt SO much better! Now, over a week later, I don't notice (m)any side effects at all and (ta daa!) I'm hungry again. I think one of the problems with this drug, when it's used for anxiety, is that we get anxious about taking it and that makes us feel worse! So relax and let the Lexapro do its thing. You might not like what it does right off the bat but it does get better, one day at a time as your body gets used to it. When I posted the "Help! First day..." message, I was a nervous wreck, sick as a dog. But support thru this site arrived within minutes and I felt so much better, knowing I wasn't alone. You're not alone, either; we're right there with you.
Posted by LynneDa on October 21, 2003, at 11:30:28
In reply to Re: Help! First day: Nausea and Lexapro, posted by Scribbler on October 21, 2003, at 11:16:12
Thanks, I appreciate it! I was on Sarafem last year and quit after a couple of months of horrible side effects - terrible headaches, insomnia AND fatigue (at the wrong times of day/night!), more nervousness, feeling like I wasn't really connected to the world, etc. I intend to stick with this as long as it takes. I think I'm at a point where the way I feel mentally is much worse than a stomache for a few days! My behaviors are getting to be too hard on my husband and daughter, as well. I'm in for the long haul!
LynnDa, hang in there. I felt really crummy the first day but reassurance from this gang kept me going and the second day I felt SO much better! Now, over a week later, I don't notice (m)any side effects at all and (ta daa!) I'm hungry again. I think one of the problems with this drug, when it's used for anxiety, is that we get anxious about taking it and that makes us feel worse! So relax and let the Lexapro do its thing. You might not like what it does right off the bat but it does get better, one day at a time as your body gets used to it. When I posted the "Help! First day..." message, I was a nervous wreck, sick as a dog. But support thru this site arrived within minutes and I felt so much better, knowing I wasn't alone. You're not alone, either; we're right there with you.
Posted by nonsexual Jeff on October 21, 2003, at 12:53:12
In reply to Re: Help! First day: Nausea and Lexapro, posted by LynneDa on October 21, 2003, at 11:30:28
I've recently switched from taking Welbutrin (twice a day) to Lexapro (20 mg once a day) about a month ago because of increased anxiety. I took the Welbutrin mainly to treat my depression. Within the past five months I've gotten involved in a serious relationship, lost my job, moved to PR, and am looking for another job in a world where the preferred language is different than my first language. Therefore, you can understand why I am anxious most of the time.
Although the Lexapro has really helped me a great deal with the anxiety, I am experiencing major sexual side effects. First, my sexual libido is just about gone and when I do get the urge to fool around with my partner, I get distracted, lose interest (including my erection) and have problems ejaculating - currently I've stopped trying. And if I do ejaculate, it's definitely not the same, it's as though my mind and body aren't connected when I have my orgasm. My partner is extremely patient and understanding, knowing that sexual side effects are a result from the meds. Is this going to continue or will I eventallly adapt to the medication and my sexual dysfunction will diminish?
Posted by Scribbler on October 21, 2003, at 14:55:49
In reply to Re: Anxious because I still am. » Scribbler, posted by JohnR on October 20, 2003, at 17:25:51
Hi John, You're right; I owe you a nickel. Feeling fine today. Feeling like I always did, matter of fact, no side effects but no noticeable absence of anxiety, either. How about you?
Posted by casiopea on October 21, 2003, at 15:21:19
In reply to Re: Help! First day: Nausea and Lexapro, posted by Scribbler on October 21, 2003, at 11:16:12
Hey, I have a question.I had been taking lexapro for the past 6 months as a treatment for OCD. I had been feeling great but I had to stop taking my medication since two weeks ago. I ran out of medicine and money so I could not afford to buy more. I am currently not feeling well. I am light headed and dizzy. I dont know if it because I stop my medication and wonder if the feeling will go away as soon as I resume on taking the Lexapro...
Posted by Esmarelda on October 21, 2003, at 15:29:18
In reply to HELP! HELP! Nausea and Lexapro, posted by casiopea on October 21, 2003, at 15:21:19
I have never stopped taking it since I started back in June, but I have seen others post that they have had withdrawal side effects similar to those you mentioned. Apparently, if you are going to stop taking an AD, it is better to taper off of it. I hope you are okay and can start taking your lex again soon.
Posted by LynneDa on October 21, 2003, at 15:47:26
In reply to HELP! HELP! Nausea and Lexapro, posted by casiopea on October 21, 2003, at 15:21:19
> C. - I have always read/been told that you have to taper & shouldn't go cold turkey (I understand why you had to). I would call your healthcare provider immediately and let him/her know. This is a new drug so the pharm reps are just starting to push it to the doctors, maybe he or she can give you some samples to tide you over or find some sort of special program where you can receive meds at a discount. Good luck and try to take care of yourself in other ways until you can start on meds again!
Hey, I have a question.I had been taking lexapro for the past 6 months as a treatment for OCD. I had been feeling great but I had to stop taking my medication since two weeks ago. I ran out of medicine and money so I could not afford to buy more. I am currently not feeling well. I am light headed and dizzy. I dont know if it because I stop my medication and wonder if the feeling will go away as soon as I resume on taking the Lexapro...
Posted by Mariposa on October 21, 2003, at 16:34:23
In reply to HELP! HELP! Nausea and Lexapro, posted by casiopea on October 21, 2003, at 15:21:19
> Hey, I have a question.I had been taking lexapro for the past 6 months as a treatment for OCD. I had been feeling great but I had to stop taking my medication since two weeks ago. I ran out of medicine and money so I could not afford to buy more. I am currently not feeling well. I am light headed and dizzy. I dont know if it because I stop my medication and wonder if the feeling will go away as soon as I resume on taking the Lexapro...
From reading posts here, I would have to say quitting *cold-turkey* is not a good idea with any of these meds. It seems like you get side effects (sometimes worse than when you started the meds) when you go off them. Most people have suggested that cutting back gradually is the way to go.
Not sure if you start again if that will help the side effects.
Good luck to you.~~~8|8
Posted by memphistigers2004 on October 21, 2003, at 19:49:26
In reply to Re: SSRIs and Beyond » mchappy, posted by theo on October 17, 2003, at 15:05:25
I have been on Lex for a week now and I am sleepy all the time. I am taking it at night, but I am still incredibly drowsy when I wake up. Today I took a two hour nap and was still sleepy. Did anyone else experience this and did it go away eventually?
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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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