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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Scribbler on October 16, 2003, at 9:58:58
In reply to Dosage, posted by tah54 on October 15, 2003, at 23:49:12
I agree -- sometimes I've found dosages too high for my needs. Ambien, for example: when I need it, I can get by on 1/3 of a 10 mg. tablet. I think it also depends on what else you're taking and how everything interacts. Nothing is ever simple, is it?
I've also heard that some senior citizens split pills with higher doseages because they cost the same as those with half the strength -- thus patients cut their medical costs in half and get the doseage they need at the same time.
Posted by Arrianna on October 16, 2003, at 10:08:43
In reply to Dosage, posted by tah54 on October 15, 2003, at 23:49:12
First, really glad that you've finally found something (lexapro) that works for you!! Sounds like it's been a long time coming.
I'm pretty new to the scene of AD's. Started on 10mg Lexapro 3 months ago now. This is the first time I've been on any sort of AD, and it seems that I've been really fortunate to start on something that works for me and others so well!! Can't imagine what a struggle it has to be to experiment with so many AD's only to find that they aren't effective, etc.
So, I don't know that I have any answer for your question about dosage. My pdoc started me off on 10mg. and it took about 3 weeks before my body finally accepted it - had to go through the se's like everyone else.
I have heard from other posters, though, that they have been prescribed some heavy dosages. It just seems to me that what may work for one may not work for another, referring to both type of AD and dosage. So, the doctors do their best at prescribing what they think will work best as a starting point. Then, if adjustments are needed, they go from there.
But, what do I know? Again, I'm still new to all this and learning as I go.
Hopefully, the 5mg will continue to work for you. Please keep us posted and remember that we are all here for you.
Take Care-
Arrianna
Posted by Chotzy on October 16, 2003, at 10:30:41
In reply to Re: Pooped on Lexapro!, posted by BLKVETTES on October 9, 2003, at 8:30:35
> > Hello fellow Lexapro users:
> >
> > It's been awhile since I've posted ~ I've been busy with a new job and feeling "pooped" so I thought I better check in.
> >
> > I'm not sure whether I'm experiencing Lexapro poop-out that other's have experienced, or just feeling "pooped" from my schedule change of my new job, or both.
> >
> > I've been feeling "pooped" since I started my new job three weeks ago. My mind and body are adjusting to this new schedule change since I had the summer off and now I'm up at 7a.m. for work. During the past three weeks, I've been feeling more tired than usual, irritable, anxious, and not myself.
> >
> > Could it be that the lexapro is losing it's effectiveness for me (been taking it now for 3 months)?? Is it time for a dose increase (been on 10mg for the whole 3months)?? It feels like it's not "working" like it used to, but then again it may just be that I need more time to adjust to work, etc.
> >
> > I don't want to blame Lexapro for what I'm experiencing, and most likely it is just this new change, yet I could really use some outside input. I have alot of other things going on in my life right now as well: leaving my son's dad at the end of the month who I've been with for 5years.
> >
> > Would it be a good idea to increase my dose to help me through this time, even if my "poop-out" isn't from lexapro losing it's effectiveness??
> >
> > Any help or suggestions please.
> > Thanks,
> > Arrianna
>
> Hi, I have felt this way a couple of times myself. I can usually figure out why I feel like I do. It has gone away each time. Sounds like you have figured it out also. Your going through a big change with having to be somewhere at a certain time, learning your new job, getting used to new people and much more. Try your best not to let everything overwhelm you. Also going up 5mg. will not hurt and you can always go back down. Congrats on the new job and try to have fun with it!!!! TAKE CARE!!!!!!!!
> WAYNE
>
>I have been taking the Lex 10mg each morning for 8 days now. I never had the problem of not being able to get up, I just started taking it because for the last 6 months I have been feeling really angry all the time. I have noticed that for the last few mornings I have a hard time getting out of bed and when I do make it to work I can barely keep my eyes open. Has anyone else experienced this? Also I have noticed that now all of a sudden I have no sex drive where before I did.
Posted by Esmarelda on October 16, 2003, at 10:41:50
In reply to Just Started and having trouble, posted by Chotzy on October 16, 2003, at 10:30:41
I was really, really sleepy in the mornings for a couple months on Lex. Your lucky that you can even get up, I couldn't. Of course, I had the lingering depression that was keeping me in bed, too. I have never been a morning person, but within the last month have been able to get up easily and am not overly tired during the day. Hang in there! As we know, there are certainly worse things than sleepiness!
Posted by bruce_w6 on October 16, 2003, at 10:45:11
In reply to Just Started and having trouble, posted by Chotzy on October 16, 2003, at 10:30:41
Going from 15mg Lex to 10mg Lex & 300mg Neuronton 3 times a day. 10 Lex & 300 Neuronton at bedtime, 300mg Neuronton am & 300 mg Neuronton afternoon. This is a small dose of Neuronton. I fell wonderful this 1st couple of days. If This continues I will cut the Lex back even further. My hope is a higher dose of Neuronton could possibly replace the Lex. Neuronton does not have the side effects of Lex. Neuronton is used for many things, even extreme cases of bi-polar.
Posted by Arrianna on October 16, 2003, at 11:30:47
In reply to Just Started and having trouble, posted by Chotzy on October 16, 2003, at 10:30:41
Sounds like you are suffering from the initial SE's of Lex. Nausea and lack of sexual interest. That is completely normal.
I, among others, have encountered these problems when first starting. We also made it through them, too, as you will, too, as long as you just hang in there!!
Take it easy and get as much rest as you can. Your body may be telling you something.
Keep us posted,
Arrianna
Posted by memphistigers2004 on October 16, 2003, at 12:46:17
In reply to Re: Help! First day: Nausea and Lexapro » Scribbler, posted by oldhand on October 14, 2003, at 23:17:48
I just started taking Lex yesterday and I also suffer from migraines. My dr said that the Lex should also help my headaches. So far, so good! But, I feel kind of wierd with the Lex, but I am hoping it goes well, like it has for everyone else.
Posted by BLKVETTES on October 16, 2003, at 12:51:24
In reply to Dosage, posted by tah54 on October 15, 2003, at 23:49:12
> I've tried several other similar medications but they made me feel heavily drugged at their lowest standard dosages. With Lexapro I started with a ten mg. dose and giggled the evening away. Fine short-term fun, but I can't operate like that. The main thing I noticed was that I didn't feel in a stupor. So I split the pill into five mg. halves and have been taking that for a month now. My wife has got the guy she married back; I don't want to strangle rude idiot drivers; I'm more organized in my daily activities and am not tied up in knots all the time.
>
> The thing I'm wondering is whether others find the 'standard' dosages of medications too much for their system. I'm sensitive to Allegra and have fine results with 30mg instead of the normal 180mg dose. I don't know if I'm particularly sensitive, or if everyone else has simply learned how to maintain the outward appearance of normalcy while taking these medications. In my experience the pharmacutical industry is pretty heavy-handed with dosage; perhaps to keep up with the over-the-top lifestyle of most Americans - mega everything in the eXtreme. Or, maybe I'm just a pharmacutical wimp.
>
> Your thoughts?Ive been that way my whole life!!!!!! Im also allergic to a lot of medications. I take 7.5mg of lexapro for panic disorder. Just a little xanax will do a number on me. Years ago when I drank, a couple of drinks had me drunk. We are all so different!!!!!! TAKE CARE!!!!!!
WAYNE
Posted by Scribbler on October 16, 2003, at 13:38:25
In reply to Re: Help! First day: Nausea and Lexapro, posted by memphistigers2004 on October 16, 2003, at 12:46:17
> I just started taking Lex yesterday and I also suffer from migraines. My dr said that the Lex should also help my headaches. So far, so good! But, I feel kind of wierd with the Lex, but I am hoping it goes well, like it has for everyone else.
Good luck with both migraines and Lexapro -- I'm hoping you're right, that we won't have them any more! The headache I had for three days is gone today and I actually feel pretty good, except I have no appetite, need to force myself to eat or my stomach aches and growls. Am wondering if I should have begun this at a lower dose because it hit me with such surprising force that first day. I seem to be adjusting, however, and encouragement from others is invaluable. Yes, we're all different. Each day I feel so much better.
Posted by Scribbler on October 17, 2003, at 12:59:03
In reply to Re: Help! First day: Nausea and Lexapro, posted by Scribbler on October 16, 2003, at 13:38:25
Okay, so it's Day #5 on Lex and I feel pretty good except for a noisy, gassy stomach and no appetite. Anticipating dinner guests this weekend -- kind of awkward, not to eat what I've prepared for them! Maybe tomorrow will be better. Since Day #1, tomorrow has *always* been better. Appreciate your encouragement. Tell me I will be hungry and enjoy food again!
Also, do you share info with friends about taking Lex or keep it to yourself? Just curious. My husband says not to tell our (grown) kids and see if they eventually notice a change. How can then NOT notice a change! I've been a hand-wringing worry-wort for so many years! Scribbler
Posted by theo on October 17, 2003, at 15:05:25
In reply to Re: SSRIs and Beyond, posted by mchappy on October 15, 2003, at 12:34:15
I'm on the same combo but 150mg Wellbutrin XL and 5mg of Lexapro. How much Wellbutrin XL are you taking?
Posted by JohnR on October 17, 2003, at 16:34:19
In reply to Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by Scribbler on October 17, 2003, at 12:59:03
Hi Scribbler,
It took a full week for my appetite to return. During that week my co-workers would stop by to see if I wanted to join them for lunch and I told them I had given up eating. :) It was almost true. Now everything has returned to normal on that front.I'm feeling better and sleeping pretty well now too. It's been two and a half weeks since I started taking the stuff. The only remaining problem is with my umm... male equipment. It's the same problem other men have from what I've read here. I have my fingers crossed that problem will still resolve itself.
I haven't told any of my friends or family that I started taking it. I don't want the attention.
Take care,
John
Posted by Scribbler on October 17, 2003, at 16:51:51
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite Scribbler, posted by JohnR on October 17, 2003, at 16:34:19
John, thanks for your reassurance. Wish I could help you out with your other problem :-) but can only add that my husband had prostate surgery about six years ago and we've invented satisfying solutions to a similar dilemma. Apparently Lexapro isn't as bad as Zoloft in that "department." Glad to hear you're feeling well and otherwise back to normal; that's encouraging.
Posted by bruce_w6 on October 17, 2003, at 18:06:41
In reply to Lex Neuronton, posted by bruce_w6 on October 16, 2003, at 10:45:11
> Going from 15mg Lex to 10mg Lex & 300mg Neuronton 3 times a day. 10 Lex & 300 Neuronton at bedtime, 300mg Neuronton am & 300 mg Neuronton afternoon. This is a small dose of Neuronton. I feel wonderful this 1st couple of days. If This continues I will cut the Lex back even further. My hope is a higher dose of Neuronton could possibly replace the Lex. Neuronton does not have the side effects of Lex. Neuronton is used for many things, even extreme cases of bi-polar.
Anyone have feedback?
3rd day and feel great. I can really feel a difference. I sleep better and am not as agitated all day and don't feel like I am on the edge. Even traffic doesn't bother me as much.
Anyone have feedback?
Posted by sekou on October 17, 2003, at 18:44:11
In reply to Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by Scribbler on October 17, 2003, at 12:59:03
> Okay, so it's Day #5 on Lex and I feel pretty good except for a noisy, gassy stomach and no appetite. Anticipating dinner guests this weekend -- kind of awkward, not to eat what I've prepared for them! Maybe tomorrow will be better. Since Day #1, tomorrow has *always* been better. Appreciate your encouragement. Tell me I will be hungry and enjoy food again!
>
> Also, do you share info with friends about taking Lex or keep it to yourself? Just curious. My husband says not to tell our (grown) kids and see if they eventually notice a change. How can then NOT notice a change! I've been a hand-wringing worry-wort for so many years! ScribblerHi there everyone,
My appetite returned full force after about a week and half. It's been almost three weeks since I've been on Lex. I am also sleeping a little better, but most nights I am so restless, it can keep me up. I just decided to take an OTC sleep aid. It helps.I have more energy, but I still have some suicidal thoughts. I realise that being on meds is just part of my treatment. There's so much more to overcome.
As far as sharing my info with friends that I am Lex...The couple of people I did tell seem to think this is just a quick temporary thing. They have lot of learning to do about me and about my depression.
Be well Everyone!!
Posted by Mariposa on October 17, 2003, at 20:26:15
In reply to Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by Scribbler on October 17, 2003, at 12:59:03
> Okay, so it's Day #5 on Lex and I feel pretty good except for a noisy, gassy stomach and no appetite. Anticipating dinner guests this weekend -- kind of awkward, not to eat what I've prepared for them! Maybe tomorrow will be better. Since Day #1, tomorrow has *always* been better. Appreciate your encouragement. Tell me I will be hungry and enjoy food again!
>
> Also, do you share info with friends about taking Lex or keep it to yourself? Just curious. My husband says not to tell our (grown) kids and see if they eventually notice a change. How can then NOT notice a change! I've been a hand-wringing worry-wort for so many years! ScribblerI have lost 10 lbs. on Lex, went through the loss of appetite, didn't feel like eating anything, not even COOKIES!! But now I eat normally again, sometimes too much, and I haven't gained the weight back, needed to come off anyway. Also went through several carb cravings...wanted Chex Mix all the time, and toast.
As for telling anyone, I chose not to, only my husband, who at first was against the idea, and eventually my boss. People DID notice a difference and commented on it, but since I am doing *better* the comments were mostly positive....had several people comment worriedly about the weight loss (went from size 10 to size 6). Have been on Lex since Feb., currently @ 20mg.
Best of luck to us all!~~~8|8
Posted by Scribbler on October 17, 2003, at 20:36:36
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by Mariposa on October 17, 2003, at 20:26:15
> I have lost 10 lbs. on Lex, went through the loss of appetite, didn't feel like eating anything, not even COOKIES!! But now I eat normally again, sometimes too much, and I haven't gained the weight back, needed to come off anyway. Also went through several carb cravings...wanted Chex Mix all the time, and toast.
>
> As for telling anyone, I chose not to, only my husband, who at first was against the idea, and eventually my boss. People DID notice a difference and commented on it, but since I am doing *better* the comments were mostly positive....had several people comment worriedly about the weight loss (went from size 10 to size 6). Have been on Lex since Feb., currently @ 20mg.
>
> Best of luck to us all!~~~8|8Just gave lots of size 6 stuff to Goodwill this last year; figured I'd never get down there again. Maybe I was too hasty? I don't even want an Oreo. Or ice cream. Not even Cheetos! This is so weird. Good luck to you -- sounds like you're doing great.
Posted by bt on October 17, 2003, at 20:51:15
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by sekou on October 17, 2003, at 18:44:11
I have been taking it for a week now. I definitely notice a loss of appetite and was nauseous up until the last few days. Aside, from that I am feeling better. I am not as irritable and things are rolling off me easier than they would before. I notice that I am not worrying over the things I have no control over. I am happy that I am taking it and have not told anyone except for a friend who takes other meds for a similar condition. It is good to have someone who understand what I am going through.
Posted by Arrianna on October 17, 2003, at 23:30:52
In reply to Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by Scribbler on October 17, 2003, at 12:59:03
Scribbler:
Hi. Also had the loss of appetite during the first three weeks on Lex. What was strange for me, though, was that I always felt hungry even though NOTHING tasted good, nor was it satisfying.
Like Mariposa, my appetite has returned back to normal - enjoying all foods again.
Best of luck this weekend with your dinner party. You may suggest to your friends that you are just watching your weight as you eat smaller portions??
I'd also suggest only telling those friends and family members whom you feel comfortable with and can trust that you are taking lexapro. If they love you unconditionally, they'll understand and support you.
I was fortunate enough that I have understanding friends who I can share this with. To my surprise, I found that many of my them are also on some sort of AD. Guess there's a reason we mix so well together. lol.
As far as telling your children and whoever else: that is your decision to make. Listen to your gut.
Wish you good luck and happiness with everything!
Arrianna
Posted by oldhand on October 17, 2003, at 23:40:39
In reply to Re: Lex Neuronton , posted by bruce_w6 on October 17, 2003, at 18:06:41
> > Going from 15mg Lex to 10mg Lex & 300mg Neuronton 3 times a day. 10 Lex & 300 Neuronton at bedtime, 300mg Neuronton am & 300 mg Neuronton afternoon. This is a small dose of Neuronton. I feel wonderful this 1st couple of days. If This continues I will cut the Lex back even further. My hope is a higher dose of Neuronton could possibly replace the Lex. Neuronton does not have the side effects of Lex. Neuronton is used for many things, even extreme cases of bi-polar.
>
> Anyone have feedback?
>
> 3rd day and feel great. I can really feel a difference. I sleep better and am not as agitated all day and don't feel like I am on the edge. Even traffic doesn't bother me as much.
>
> Anyone have feedback?
>
>Hey Bruce,
I think it is wonderful that you continue to feel better with the Lex/Neurontin combo. My old Pdoc prescribed me 100mg Neurontin for anxiety. I know this also is a low dose but it did not do a thing except put a bad taste in my mouth so I don't take it. My sister was prescribed Neurontin for the pain associated with shingles, but I don't know how much.
Hope you continue to improve.
Posted by PHV on October 17, 2003, at 23:58:51
In reply to Re: Lex Neuronton » bruce_w6, posted by oldhand on October 17, 2003, at 23:40:39
Hi ladies -
I seem to be experiencing PMS symptoms extremely early this month - which is highly unusual for me. I'm fortunate and usually don't experience any PMS at all; however; have really noticed some major PMS type symptoms very early on in my cycle - when I wouldn't normally be feeling anything. I'm early to mid cycle - and the symptoms in my body seem to make me feel as though I'm just days before my period - bloating, tenderness, cramping, moodswings, etc. Has anyone else noticed a change in their cycle since starting LEX? I'm also wondering if it could be the recent addition of Busbar and Ambian.
Ladies - I welcome your thoughts and exeriences.
Thanks.
Patt.
Posted by ginger C on October 18, 2003, at 9:18:08
In reply to Ladies - Any PMS Type SE, posted by PHV on October 17, 2003, at 23:58:51
I have been taking lexapro for a year and I haven't noticed the mood swings but I have felt bloated. Some of the time I get a little depressed or irritable but not like I do when I'm having a bipolar episode.
Posted by oldhand on October 18, 2003, at 22:55:26
In reply to Re: Ladies - Any PMS Type SE » PHV, posted by ginger C on October 18, 2003, at 9:18:08
> I have been taking lexapro for a year and I haven't noticed the mood swings but I have felt bloated. Some of the time I get a little depressed or irritable but not like I do when I'm having a bipolar episode.
Postmenopausal here. Just get the hot flashes from the Lex.
Shelley
Posted by Scribbler on October 19, 2003, at 9:20:33
In reply to Re: Ladies - Any PMS Type SE » ginger C, posted by oldhand on October 18, 2003, at 22:55:26
And I've found the Lex has stopped my hot flashes. Go figure...
Posted by JohnR on October 19, 2003, at 12:02:50
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite Scribbler, posted by Scribbler on October 17, 2003, at 16:51:51
Scribbler,
Thank you for the encouragement and sharing with me.Have you started getting hungry again yet?
John
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