Posted by jrbecker on February 11, 2003, at 11:34:14
In reply to Re: Lexapro versus Effexor, posted by Bill L on February 11, 2003, at 8:33:55
I can definitely agree with you Tommy. Lexapro just doesn't compare to Effexor, or even Celexa alone for its mood effect. However, Lex's side effects are the most tolerable though. I suffer from atypical depression and it seemed to cause the least amount of hypersomnia and appetite increase. It also caused the least probs with sexual dysfunction, although my libido was nil on it, so what's the point.
I was on effexor about 3 years ago for a total of two and a half years. I'd have to say it was probably the time when I was most social, outgoing, and active. I did have some problems with it though, these included: overexcitation, somnolescence, and real bad anorgasmia.
I eventually moved on to celexa, which I think had about the same mood effect for me, but did
not give me as much energy (it also didn't make me overexcited though as well). I have just recently switched back to it after being on Lex for four months straight. The side effects are a little worse, but I'm definitely "happier" on the celexa now.Have you tried celexa before? And if so, how'd you do? You know adding Strattera to an SSRI is pretty much the same effect as the Effexor and probably with less side effects. Another bonus by using a combo instead of effexor is that you get to tailor the NE and serotonin ratio to how you see fit. Another answer for you might be duloxetine when it comes out later this year.
One down side is that most SNRIs are going to have worse anorgasmia issues than most SSRIs. FOr me, libido was actually increased on Effexor, but for everybody it's different though.Have you tried any augmentors for the libido (sexual dysfunction as well)? Try a dose of Buspar, yohimbe, wellbutrin, or maybe even a stim 1-2 hours before the act and you shouldn't have too many problems.
Good luck,
JB
poster:jrbecker
thread:140528
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030208/msgs/140562.html