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Sunday, January 25, 2009 nayltek asks

Q: Started taking Lexapro 2 days ago

I was off Lexapro for over 1 year and started having another "episode" of my GAD and a touch of depression. (I have suffered on and off for 6 yrs like this)

The lexapro worked wonders for me when I did take it ... my doctor and myself weened me off of it with no withdrawal symptoms. 

But I started taking it again 2 days ago (10m) once a day and in these 2 days I have had 3 panic attacks. I don't remember having this "side effect" the last time I took it. So I guess my question is, is this normal? Will they go away?  Or should I call my DR.? Any one that can help would be great. Thank You

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Answers (1)
1/26/09 7:54pm

Lexapro and the other antidepressants in that family can cause some agitation and temporarily worsen anxiety symptoms in some people. It is less likely for something like this to happen if you have used it successfully and without major side effects in the past but you may be metabolizing the medication differently due to other meds you are taking, stimulants you have been consuming, other medications that increase serotonin. You may also be less depressed and more anxious now than you were the first time you took it. If you can tolerate the side effects for 3 or 4 more days but they still haven't gone away you need to contact your physician.

 

Rick Wirtz

 

Rick Wirtz is a Psychologist, not a psychiatrist or medical doctor. Although the majority of Psychologists are not authorized to prescribe medications or give you specific advice about them, they typically have experience working with patients who take a variety of medications. The response above is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or mental disorder. Any information given in a post about medication is for educational purposes only and primarily to aid you in having an informed discussion with your own physician.

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By nayltek— Last Modified: 11/17/10, First Published: 01/25/09