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Post by peppapig on Apr 1, 2021 10:13:45 GMT -6
Hi all...I just got of the video phone with my dr, and after talking to her about how I've been feeling, she feels that either (a) a low-dose Lexapro (5mgs) or (b) Quetiapine (sp?) would be appropriate for me...in addition to therapy.
Here's how my anxiety works for me: It's like a roller coaster...I'm fine for several weeks at a time, then something will trigger it, and I'll be spinning for a few days to a couple weeks at a time, then it will taper off and I'll be okay again. From what my Dr. was saying, the Lexapro is good for daily GAD, where the Quetiapine is better for more severe attacks that last for a day or two. I feel like what I experience falls in between the two.
So, I am reaching out to those of you have taken, or are currently taking, these meds...if you are willing to share. What can I expect? Side effects? The good, the bad, the ugly? Are there any other options?
Thanks to those who nudged me to get help (I'm getting teary eyed).
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Tlex
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Post by Tlex on Apr 1, 2021 10:23:24 GMT -6
I’ve been on Lexapro for almost 10 years now, started off on 5 and found my sweet spot is 10mg, any more than that and I feel the side effects too strongly. It takes about 2 weeks for me to adjust to being on it (have been off it for long periods a couple times in that decade) and to be honest, I can feel a bit worse before I start to feel better. Side effects for me tend to be a bit of dizzy-light headedness, feeling my heart race, feeling a bit woozy or nauseated, and feeling kind of flat and glum. I also can’t reach full O during that phase. But! Then I wake up one day and just feel kind of lighter, I laugh more easily, I’m less stressed and angry over small stuff, I can O again 😜 and I can just generally experience life more normally. It doesn’t change who I am or my personality in any way, it just lifts a cloud of misery. Like you I’d have good times and then really rough times. It was hard to accept needing a med because there were times I’d be fine without it. But it turns out I wasn’t having the good times I really thought I was, I was just comparing them to the really, really bad times. I’m so thankful for this med and it certainly isn’t a fit for everyone, but it has been life changing for me. It just lets my brain play on a more level playing field and be calm enough to get value out of the other side of therapy, which is learning new thought patterns and behaviour.
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trueblue
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Post by trueblue on Apr 1, 2021 10:23:41 GMT -6
When things are really bad and all my normal coping mechanisms fail I need a daily SSRI to smooth out the hills and valleys and get my over all anxiety level to a manageable level and a fast acting as needed medication like xanax or klonopin for unmanageable breakthrough anxiety.
When things are ok and I can manage day to day with skills learned in cognitive behavioral therapy I just have the breakthrough med as a stop gap for situational tidal waves of anxiety with a specific cause and a specific resolution time period. If i use rescue meds more than I am comfortable with, or with some regularity, its time to go bacl on the SSRI.
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Tlex
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Post by Tlex on Apr 1, 2021 10:26:41 GMT -6
I take Ativan on really bad days, because they still happen. It’s kind of a security thing, I know when I need it and it allows me to head off or stop short from a full blown panic attack. I also take it preemptively on days that come with a lot of triggers for my PTSD, and that has allowed me to get so much enjoyment from life back (like spending Christmas Day feeling present rather than gritting through and wishing I could fast forward). It also helps with my OCD during very bad episodes.
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Post by courtniko on Apr 1, 2021 10:37:11 GMT -6
I started Lexapro 2 months ago. I am starting to really tell a difference with less anxiety, and less just general down days. I went through a period of just kind of being, but broke through that after a week or so. I have also had constipation which I was told was a possible side effect. I am very glad to be on this side for now finally, I forget how bad it is when I am deep on the other side.
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tj
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Post by tj on Apr 1, 2021 10:37:49 GMT -6
Do you feel like you also have depression? I’ve always wondered why docs seem to prescribe antidepressants for anxiety.
I take buspirone which is just a daily anxiety medication. It helps with my general anxiety and also with my ocd (which is triggered by my anxiety.) I also have a rx for Xanax which I pre-emptively take when I know I will struggle such as medical procedures or travel, and also as a rescue med when when I have an anxiety attack.
I’ve tried all of the different antidepressants but nothing really worked for my specific issues until we tried buspirone. Bc it actually treats my actual problem. Not to hate on your doctor. I’m sure they are doing what they think is best for you. But a GP isn’t always the best dr for diagnosing mental health issues.
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cribs
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Post by cribs on Apr 1, 2021 10:46:50 GMT -6
Yay! I'm so glad you talked to your doctor.
I think the lexapro is a good plan and then the rescue meds if you have breakthrough anxiety. You can always try these and if doesn't work for you try something else.
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addymac
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Post by addymac on Apr 1, 2021 10:49:18 GMT -6
I’d start the lexapro. Then get an appt with a psychiatrist who is better at managing psych meds. My GP was helpful to get it rolling but I ended up needing to switch meds 3x before I found the right fit for me.
Proud of you!!!
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Tlex
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Post by Tlex on Apr 1, 2021 10:53:11 GMT -6
Do you feel like you also have depression? I’ve always wondered why docs seem to prescribe antidepressants for anxiety. I take buspirone which is just a daily anxiety medication. It helps with my general anxiety and also with my ocd (which is triggered by my anxiety.) I also have a rx for Xanax which I pre-emptively take when I know I will struggle such as medical procedures or travel, and also as a rescue med when when I have an anxiety attack. I’ve tried all of the different antidepressants but nothing really worked for my specific issues until we tried buspirone. Bc it actually treats my actual problem. Not to hate on your doctor. I’m sure they are doing what they think is best for you. But a GP isn’t always the best dr for diagnosing mental health issues. Two psychologists I’ve worked with have picked lexapro as an ideal choice for anxiety and OCD (which involves lots of anxiety). I feel wary of you giving this advice/doubtful perspective. Lots of drugs are used in multiple ways, including SSRIs.
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Post by hellosweetie on Apr 1, 2021 10:53:20 GMT -6
Do you feel like you also have depression? I’ve always wondered why docs seem to prescribe antidepressants for anxiety. I take buspirone which is just a daily anxiety medication. It helps with my general anxiety and also with my ocd (which is triggered by my anxiety.) I also have a rx for Xanax which I pre-emptively take when I know I will struggle such as medical procedures or travel, and also as a rescue med when when I have an anxiety attack. I’ve tried all of the different antidepressants but nothing really worked for my specific issues until we tried buspirone. Bc it actually treats my actual problem. Not to hate on your doctor. I’m sure they are doing what they think is best for you. But a GP isn’t always the best dr for diagnosing mental health issues. I feel like this is pretty unhelpful for someone who has just gotten up the courage to speak to their doctor, and has a plan and a decision to make, all very difficult things and then to throw in something like this. I just have feels on it. Doctors prescribe these medications because they work. Obviously everyone is different and I’m glad that you found something that works for you, but “are you sure you trust your doctor?” here is pretty crappy. And fwiw I’ve tried buspirone and it didn’t work for me. I had very severe side effects. Sometimes you have to keep trying until you find something that works for you and that’s different than what you said.
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leahcar
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Post by leahcar on Apr 1, 2021 10:53:39 GMT -6
I take a daily anti-depressant. I need that help for a better baseline at this point. The generic version of Wellbutrin XL works well for me. I felt a little dizzy and nauseous for the first 10ish days of my anti-depressant.
I have 2 as needed anxiety medications as well. One helps more with the mental side of anxiety and helps stop the spiral. The other one helps with the physical anxiety symptoms. The first one makes me sleepy; the other one has no real side effects for me.
Prior to 2020- I had only needed medication for mental health post-partum. Once my baseline started improving, it became very apparent to me that my "good days" weren't as good as I thought pre-meds.
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cribs
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Post by cribs on Apr 1, 2021 11:00:36 GMT -6
Do you feel like you also have depression? I’ve always wondered why docs seem to prescribe antidepressants for anxiety. I take buspirone which is just a daily anxiety medication. It helps with my general anxiety and also with my ocd (which is triggered by my anxiety.) I also have a rx for Xanax which I pre-emptively take when I know I will struggle such as medical procedures or travel, and also as a rescue med when when I have an anxiety attack. I’ve tried all of the different antidepressants but nothing really worked for my specific issues until we tried buspirone. Bc it actually treats my actual problem. Not to hate on your doctor. I’m sure they are doing what they think is best for you. But a GP isn’t always the best dr for diagnosing mental health issues. I feel like this is pretty unhelpful for someone who has just gotten up the courage to speak to their doctor, and has a plan and a decision to make, all very difficult things and then to throw in something like this. I just have feels on it. Doctors prescribe these medications because they work. Obviously everyone is different and I’m glad that you found something that works for you, but “are you sure you trust your doctor?” here is pretty crappy. And fwiw I’ve tried buspirone and it didn’t work for me. I had very severe side effects. Sometimes you have to keep trying until you find something that works for you and that’s different than what you said. All of this. My GP has managed my stuff for years. I used to go to a psychiatrist and they did a not great job. It just depends on the doctor and situation and how things are going
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jsgrl
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Post by jsgrl on Apr 1, 2021 11:05:11 GMT -6
I second what cribs and addymac said. Have a daily, and a rescue med. Find a psychiatrist. I started with my gp, but it became apparent he was providing bandaids. Which doesn't make him a bad doctor, but he isn't a psychiatrist. Lexapro saved my life, but I'm now transitioning to other things that are working even better.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 1, 2021 11:05:34 GMT -6
I haven’t used either but take Zoloft for my anxiety/ocd. My doctor made it very clear at the beginning that it’s not a one size fits all when it comes to the medication. She starts with one that she thinks will suit your needs in the lowest does, tweaks the dosage after a month if needed and will change it if it’s still not working.
So I would start with what your Dr has laid out and don’t be afraid to voice your concerns if something isnt working for you. But you won’t know until you try.
And huge kudos to you for reaching out and setting a path for yourself. You’ve already achieved a huge milestone for yourself.
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Post by newspapers on Apr 1, 2021 11:05:54 GMT -6
I have taken Luvox for about a year for GAD with OCD features. My cycling sounds like yours--okay, but then something happens or I read something that triggers a panic spiral, then recover, then repeat. CBT alone worked about ten years prior to my starting meds, but when my anxiety attacks resurged, I needed something in addition. I have been much more stable on the Luvox, but I have gained 50 lbs. THIS IS NOT TYPICAL, I am told, and I was overweight to begin with AND it coincided with lockdown. Other than that, I am a skosh emotionally numb and have very little libido, but I am okay with that right now since it is preferable to the wanting to kill myself out of shame and fear that I would always feel panicked.
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Diordra
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Post by Diordra on Apr 1, 2021 11:09:49 GMT -6
Lexapro was great for me as a starting place for my GAD along with talk therapy. I haven't had a rescue med as others have, but have switched my daily med two times and am now on Prozac.
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Post by SayitaintSnow on Apr 1, 2021 11:17:04 GMT -6
My anxiety hit the fan about 1.5 years ago and I dragged my feet but finally started Lexapro on the advice of my doctor. Best decision ever ever ever. I dragged my feet because I was afraid it would make me feel numb or drugged or something, but the reality is it makes me feel normal and able to appreciate life more and cope in healthier ways with stress and anxiety. For me it was a literal life changer. Prior to starting the Lexapro, I had a scrip for Xanax for acute anxiety/panic attacks, and while I still have some Xanax on hand for these situations, they have become much fewer and farther between since I've been on Lexapro.
Godspeed, and good work reaching out to your doctor. Anxiety does not have to run your life. <3
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caer
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Post by caer on Apr 1, 2021 11:18:59 GMT -6
My doctor prescribed Zoloft for my anxiety and it’s been amazing. I’ll echo what others have said - please ignore the bit about antidepressants being used for anxiety. Zoloft is technically an antidepressant but it’s worked perfectly for my anxiety.
I think I shared before but from what you’ve posted, I had a similar experience with anxiety. My anxiety was mostly health based. I’d become convinced I had a terrible disease and I would lose literally hours a day googling symptoms. I was ER hopping and doctor shopping and all sorts of fun things. And like you, it wasn’t all of the time - but the spirals would occur often enough that it was disruptive. The Zoloft completely stopped that for me. It’s a daily pill - I don’t have any experience with Ativan or the like, so I can’t speak to that.
I’m SO proud of you for speaking to your doctor! I hope you find a path forward that brings you some comfort. ❤️
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Post by SayitaintSnow on Apr 1, 2021 11:23:17 GMT -6
My doctor prescribed Zoloft for my anxiety and it’s been amazing. I’ll echo what others have said - please ignore the bit about antidepressants being used for anxiety. Zoloft is technically an antidepressant but it’s worked perfectly for my anxiety. I think I shared before but from what you’ve posted, I had a similar experience with anxiety. My anxiety was mostly health based. I’d become convinced I had a terrible disease and I would lose literally hours a day googling symptoms. I was ER hopping and doctor shopping and all sorts of fun things. And like you, it wasn’t all of the time - but the spirals would occur often enough that it was disruptive. The Zoloft completely stopped that for me. It’s a daily pill - I don’t have any experience with Ativan or the like, so I can’t speak to that. I’m SO proud of you for speaking to your doctor! I hope you find a path forward that brings you some comfort. ❤️ Hello me, with the health-based anxiety.
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Post by fosterlove on Apr 1, 2021 11:25:02 GMT -6
I have just recently added Lexapro on in addition to my mood stabilizer and I am a big fan. I am on 10mg. It took about 8 weeks to feel the full affect, but that is the same with any medication like this, it takes some time to build up in your system and work completely.
Something that works for one person isn't guaranteed to work for you BUT you took the step and that is HUGE. Start one one and if it doesn't work, try the other.
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Post by jules1614 on Apr 1, 2021 11:31:22 GMT -6
I was very similar with the fine for weeks then spiral cycle. I’m on Prozac for GAD with OCD. I’ve been on it for about 2 months and have noticed a big difference.
My doctor started at half dose for two weeks then increase to help get use to the meds. The first week of taking it I felt super tired and had pretty bad dry mouth but it stabilized after the first week and then when I increased to my prescribed dose I didn’t have any side effects.
Good job on reaching out for help and don’t be surprised if you have to try different meds- there are a lot of great options out there so just be honest with your doctor if it’s not helping.
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jorkzy
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Post by jorkzy on Apr 1, 2021 11:35:16 GMT -6
Ive always been told that anxiety and depression are like the opposite ends of the same spectrum, so it would make sense to me that antidepressants would be used for anxiety, no? But anyways peppapig I’m so glad to hear you reached out to your doc! I hope you get some relief soon.
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Post by cabbagecabbage on Apr 1, 2021 11:39:42 GMT -6
I started Lexapro (5mg) in February after about eight years of anxiety. I’ve done therapy as well, although I’m between therapists at the moment.
Immediately it helped, like within 48 hours. The fluttery panic of existing or going in public: gone. The racing thoughts in the background that sound like “What’s that noise? Probably the roof giving out. What if it collapsed? What if that’s the thing that takes all our savings? What if there black mold in there making us sick? Fuck!” : gone The 500 open tabs in my brain that were each playing a flash animation: gone. Like, I could just live and focus and be present without constantly pulling into my head.
Lexapro also had some side effects for about two weeks as I adjusted. I take it at bedtime and it knocked me out immediately for a while like a sleeping pill. I felt a bit spacey or foggy for a few days. Also I had *zero* sex drive. That last one almost made me quit but I kept going because I was seeing a lot of benefits. Now, the side effects have all but gone away. My sex drive is lowered for sure though but I can feel sexy and orgasm and have good sex. It takes a bit longer to get there.
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hawkward
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Post by hawkward on Apr 1, 2021 11:43:08 GMT -6
So something that happened to me that maybe I could see being a concern with you too is that my GAD experience was also masking some depressive symptoms. When my doctor first suggested Lexapro I was really resistant. I thought I didn’t need a daily drug, especially one that leaned antidepressant. I thought I needed something for breakthrough anxiety. She convinced me to try for a month, and it was life changing. Literally. What I thought felt like “less anxious” times were really just higher depression times.
Now, I just feel... like myself. I was worried about blunting but it doesn’t. I still sometimes feel anxious but it’s manageable. I can think it through logically rather than spiraling.
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hawkward
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Post by hawkward on Apr 1, 2021 11:44:30 GMT -6
cabbagecabbage Same for sex side effects. It got better after 4-6 weeks.
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Post by canteverremember on Apr 1, 2021 11:44:35 GMT -6
I don’t have experience with those meds but I just wanted to say I’m am very happy that you’re getting help. You deserve to feel good and I truly Hope you find the best drug for you. But it can be trial and error please don’t get discouraged just keep trying. Also I’ve heard that if a particular med works well on a family member it has a higher chance of working for you so if anyone in your family also suffers anxiety maybe see what they’re taking and talk to your dr.
Good luck 💜
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hawkward
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Post by hawkward on Apr 1, 2021 11:47:22 GMT -6
And I forgot to add, I’m really proud of you and I hope this is the beginning of a new healthy chapter in your life.
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Tlex
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Post by Tlex on Apr 1, 2021 11:48:12 GMT -6
And I forgot to add, I’m really proud of you and I hope this is the beginning of a new healthy chapter in your life. +1 Really proud of you peppa. ❤️
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Post by Rusty Red on Apr 1, 2021 12:19:46 GMT -6
Do you feel like you also have depression? I’ve always wondered why docs seem to prescribe antidepressants for anxiety. I take buspirone which is just a daily anxiety medication. It helps with my general anxiety and also with my ocd (which is triggered by my anxiety.) I also have a rx for Xanax which I pre-emptively take when I know I will struggle such as medical procedures or travel, and also as a rescue med when when I have an anxiety attack. I’ve tried all of the different antidepressants but nothing really worked for my specific issues until we tried buspirone. Bc it actually treats my actual problem. Not to hate on your doctor. I’m sure they are doing what they think is best for you. But a GP isn’t always the best dr for diagnosing mental health issues. I take Paxil combined with Buspar. My doc always tells me Paxil is the best overall med for anxiety, that the rest are more geared to depression. These kinds are meds are always such a trial and error process.
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Post by Rusty Red on Apr 1, 2021 12:21:37 GMT -6
I hope you find what works for you, peppapig, just be patient with the process. It can take some time to get the right med and then the right dosage! I'm glad you are getting the help you need and deserve.
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