2006-11-18 15:38:37 · 5 answers · asked by Mr. Basketnutz! 2 in Health ➔ Mental Health
If you are on Lexapro, then you are on it for a reason. Don't stop without consulting your doctor and he/she will advise the best way to procede. You can take it long term so that's not something you need to worry about.
2006-11-18 15:42:47 · answer #1 · answered by honey 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would think it is if you do it by yourself. I take Lexapro too, for my panic attacks and depression. When I started to forget to take it, I started having my panic attacks everyday until at least 2 weeks after I started taking it again. Torture. Don't stop taking it unless your doctor says you can. But when you're ready to get off Lexapro, it shouldn't be a problem. I'm not addicted or dependant on it. I can stop anytime I want, except for the fact that I will suffer. So just wait for your doctor to give the thumbs up.
2006-11-18 16:07:55 · answer #2 · answered by Kyme 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Only if you aren't weaned off slowly but steadily. Not everyone has withdrawal effects, but almost everyone I have spoken with about this has had some and agrees it just needs to happen slowly. Your doctor can help you do this as safely and comfortably as possible. Even if the doctor's opinion is that you should stay on the medication, you have the right to choose not to and it is his/her responsibility to help you discontinue your medication.
I recently went off of Lexapro. I have been on many, MANY psych meds trying to find the right combo for treating my bipolar disorder, so I knew the drill and what I was getting myself into (or out of, as the case may be.) It wasn't a big deal getting off of it...it was done slowly and gradually...until i was taking 1/4 pill (5 mg)every other day...then stopped. I did have a little bit of light headedness and dizziness, but nothing too bad.
2006-11-19 06:03:16 · answer #3 · answered by Jess 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You certainly don't want to just stop taking it. However, if it is giving you side effects you don't like, then maybe you need to be changed to something else.
I was taking Lexapro, and it helped me feel much better emotionally, but unfortunately, it made me sleepy all the time. I mean, if I laid my head down, I went to sleep - and that is just not something I have ever done before.
I am now on Effexor CR and I still feel good, but no longer have the side effects.
There are many different types of anti-depressants out there - check with your doctor and see what he suggests.
2006-11-18 15:47:01 · answer #4 · answered by MissyChele 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
For me it wasn't but I did it under a doctors supervision. Please don't stop or change meds without your doctors help. Hang in there if the side effects are bothering you and its a new med. Alot of times the side effects go away or wan after about 6 weeks. Good luck.
2006-11-18 16:02:30 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋