I've been on Lexapro for about 4 months. I'm gradually weening off of it because I didn't like it so much. I'm stepping down exactly as the Dr. said, but I'm having drastic mood swings and I'm super emotional. Is this normal? Also, are there any long-term side effects that I'll end up having from this medicine?
2006-12-06 10:01:54 · 9 answers · asked by Amigurl 3 in Health ➔ Mental Health
There should be no long term side effects of escitalopram (Lexapro). If you develop changes in mood as the dose is decreased this suggests that the escitalopram was doing something postiive. This does not mean that you should not continue to be withdrawn from it. It does mean however that something else (and there are many choices) will likely have to be started. If you need additional advice please let me know. As always I wish you the very best of health.
2006-12-06 10:05:09 · answer #1 · answered by john e russo md facm faafp 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Unfortunately, all the SSRI's have a "withdrawal syndrome". The biggest is depression/anxiety (& mood swings)....often worse than the original condition that made you start the medicine. The good news is that it does pass.
There are two ways to handle this. 1. Stop taking the drug & hold on for an awful ride. It could last a week. Keep friends & pets on hand & know that it is going to pass.
2. Taper slowly. Even though you are following your Doc's advice, it is too fast. If you feel rotten/moody, go back up to the dosage you were on. After several days, drop the dose again, but less --like 1/2 or so tab every other day. If this stinks, then go back up, & (after 2-3 days) drop 1/2 tab every 3rd day. It will take longer, but it is a better way to stay off the mood teeter-totter.
2006-12-06 10:11:15 · answer #2 · answered by buttercup 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
usually with Lexapro our Health clinic will usually ween someone off their medication while adding something else to prevent this. So as the mg of Lexapro goes down the increase of the other med should go up.
2006-12-06 10:24:32 · answer #3 · answered by mikeyv 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I was on lexapro I totally agree. The doctor put me on something to help the mood swings till it was over. I called it the magic pill 20 min later you felt great... Although you have to stop taking them when the with drawls are done, because it can be addicting....
2006-12-06 10:22:10 · answer #4 · answered by tabithascharm 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i've never heard of long-term effects of Lexapro- I doubt there are any. as for the mood swings, I would say give your Dr. a call.
2006-12-06 10:04:30 · answer #5 · answered by hydepark32 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Let your doctor know about your change in mood as soon as possible. You shouldn't have to suffer. I don't believe you will have
to worry about any long term side effects.
2006-12-06 10:07:32 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Leapro like any medication has its side effects. These side effects are normal but if they get to the point that you cant take it anymore talk to your doctor. For now slowly get off the pills
2006-12-06 10:05:20 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
the mood swiings are due to the decrease in the med expect it to get worse as you reduce further. there are no long term effects known afor this drug/
2006-12-06 10:05:17 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It has distinctive makes use of, such as dementia; rigidity; bi-polar; melancholy, etc. that's the main valuable, least section-effects, low dosage drug that works a style of techniques chemical imbalances.
2016-10-14 04:14:08 · answer #9 · answered by lipton 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋