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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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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
Posted by Scribbler on October 19, 2003, at 13:11:06
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite Scribbler, posted by JohnR on October 19, 2003, at 12:02:50
> Scribbler,
> Thank you for the encouragement and sharing with me.
>
> Have you started getting hungry again yet?
>
> John
>
YES! I just polished off a chicken sandwich with a good helping of Cheetos. It's like my taste buds have clicked into action after six days of fasting and everything tastes soooo good. Thanks for assuring me I'd be able to eat again, John; I think I've lost about 5 lbs since last Monday. Now if I could only keep it off...
Posted by PHV on October 19, 2003, at 14:35:34
In reply to Re: Ladies - Any PMS Type SE » ginger C, posted by oldhand on October 18, 2003, at 22:55:26
Hot flashes are another thing I experience quite frequently. I'm always a cold person - and thanks to you folks, I have been recognizing that I am having hot flashes - when it's not really hot! Very strange sensation for me. Thanks for sharing your comments and making me feel like I'm not going crazy - since I'm usually freezing when it's 80 degrees outside!
Patty
Posted by Sherrie309 on October 19, 2003, at 14:39:33
In reply to Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by Scribbler on October 17, 2003, at 12:59:03
I have been on Lexapro for about 2 months and am doing extremely well with little or no depression and anxiety but the problem that I am having is that I have no desire for sex and I can't have an orgasm. Does anyone else experience this? My doctor has prescribed wellbutrim to take away the side effect but can't get them until my insurance approved it first.Has anyone else been given wellbutrim for the sex side effects from lexapro?
Posted by ginger C on October 19, 2003, at 17:48:09
In reply to Re: Ladies - Any PMS Type SE, posted by PHV on October 19, 2003, at 14:35:34
ey I thought I was the only one who wore fur coats during the summer. My husband laughs at me because I stay cold all of the time. I tell him to just wait till menopause and he'll be the one freezing when I turn up the air.
Posted by ginger C on October 19, 2003, at 17:52:42
In reply to Re: Ladies - Any PMS Type SE, posted by Scribbler on October 19, 2003, at 9:20:33
Now that I think about it I was having sweats during the night and would have to get up and change into something cooler or just kick the sheets off. Since I started the Lexapro Now that I think about it I haven't had any more of them.
Posted by PHV on October 19, 2003, at 19:42:24
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by Sherrie309 on October 19, 2003, at 14:39:33
> I have been on Lexapro for about 2 months and am doing extremely well with little or no depression and anxiety but the problem that I am having is that I have no desire for sex and I can't have an orgasm. Does anyone else experience this? My doctor has prescribed wellbutrim to take away the side effect but can't get them until my insurance approved it first.Has anyone else been given wellbutrim for the sex side effects from lexapro?
I've been on Lex just over three months now. Sexual SE's were horrible early on. I had absolutely NO desire for sex and orgasms were impossible. I noticed great improvement during month three of my treatment. I think as a result of no sex for two months, I really began missing being intimate with my boyfriend - and that's when my desires came back into play. Absence makes the heart grow fonder - so perhaps it will increase as time goes on.
Pleae keep us posted. Good luck.
Patty
Posted by JohnR on October 19, 2003, at 22:30:23
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite, posted by Sherrie309 on October 19, 2003, at 14:39:33
Hi Sherrie,
I'm having similar trouble. I started taking Lexapro about two and a half weeks ago. FYI, I'm a single male in my mid 30's.
The very next day after taking the first pill the problem was apparent. Although I still get aroused/erect just as before, getting to an orgasm has changed dramatically. It's still possible but takes a very long time, typically more than an hour. I’m certainly glad it’s still possible, but over an hour is difficult. I not sure what I’ll do when I have a partner.
Scribbler gave me some encouragement by letting me know these things can be worked through with someone that is really special to you. I’m sure she’s right about that.
Wellbutrin isn’t an option for me. I have epilepsy and it’s contraindicated in people who have a history of seizures.
There are some indications it’s getting a little better for me though. This may be too much information, but today I managed to get there in about twenty-five minutes. Yippie!
So, whatever happens I’ll try to be patient and hope to find someone that doesn’t mind working with my special needs. After all, there must be some ladies out there that would like a man that can go for hours. : )Good luck,
John
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