Effects of Lexapro?

Question

My Dr. put me on 5mg of Lexapro. I know this is a very small dose, but I am still leary of taking any anti depressant. Does the positive effects of this drug outweigh the negative? Also, will marijuana affect what the drug is supposed to do? I only smoke a little before I go to bed to help me fall asleep. Please don't tell me that drugs are bad or give a lecture, I already know.

Answer 1

For me (they started me on 5mg, then 10mg, now 20mg) lexapro has been very effective in helping to control my anxiety and panic, when I was having bad panic attacks ny blood pressure was off the scale, I have noticed zero side-effects, except that I have had an easier time not over-eating, which is actually a huge positive, so based on my personal experience, Pros: no panic, not having a stroke, and losing weight. Cons: None.
That is just my personal experience and I understand the drug can effect different people differently, 5mg is a low dose but doctors are supposed to start you low and step you up. I don't know about mixing it with pot, although drinking excessively while you are on it is not a good idea. If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you might want to curtail your marijuana smoking anyways as it can contribute to both (Anxiety=Paranoia, Depression=Amotivation)

Answer 2

What are you taking the Lexapro for? If it is for depression you might be okay. I've read that it has really helped some people. If you are bipolar, though, watch out. For some reason when you are manic and you're on Lexapro, it can cause suicidal thoughts/attempts. I dont know why but it does. Look up Lexapro, suicide, side effects on Google and you'll see all kinds of stuff. Also has more suicidal effects in teenagers. The weed shouldn't hurt anything. All doctors are going to tell you drugs are bad but I've never heard of weed actually counter- acting any drug. Weed doesnt help depression, though. Makes it worse.

Answer 3

The positive effects definitely outweigh the negatives. Lexapro is a good antidepressant, because it helps keep the depression under control, while still letting you be you (it doesn't alter your personality, or turn you into a "zombie".)

As far as the marijuana, it definitely affects the what the drug is supposed to do. Because marijuana is a depressant, it will pretty much cancel out what Lexapro is trying to accomplish (so, it's like you aren't even taking Lexapro--since you are sort of "doubling" the depression.) The same holds true with alcohol. I would mention it to your doctor, just to be sure. Hopefully he won't give you a lecture--maybe he might just up your dose of Lexapro.

Good luck!

Answer 4

While LEXAPRO is well tolerated by most people, it is important to keep in mind that medicines can affect each person differently. Some may experience no or very minor side effects, while others may find the drug more difficult to tolerate. Most of the side effects experienced by patients taking LEXAPRO are mild to moderate and go away with continued treatment, and usually do not cause patients to stop taking LEXAPRO.

The most common adverse events reported with LEXAPRO vs placebo (approximately 5% or greater and approximately 2X placebo) were nausea, insomnia, ejaculation disorder, somnolence, increased sweating, fatigue, decreased libido, and anorgasmia.

Less common side effects have also been reported and may include a variety of very rare side effects. Check with your doctor if you develop any new or unusual symptoms.

If you experience any of the following side effects, continue taking LEXAPRO and talk to your doctor:

* headache, nervousness, or anxiety
* nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight
* sleepiness or insomnia
* decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. For a list of side effects, see the LEXAPRO package insert. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
MARIJUANA:-
Dr. P.'s allegation that marijuana use precipitated and aggravated the patient's break with reality can't be proved or disproved. Some published studies indicate an "association" between marijuana use and schizophrenia, but not necessarily a causal relationship. (A person seeing demons or hearing voices may use cannabis because he finds that it quiets them.) Schizophrenia occurs in about 1% of adult populations in all countries and cultures, regardless of the prevalence of cannabis use. The use of Marinol (synthetic THC) by teenage cancer patients has not resulted in an increased incidence of schizophrenia.

Answer 5

Lexapro at that low of a dose probably won't have many side effects. I took it and noticed I had an uncontrollable need to swing my legs constantly - I've heard others with the same issue. Other than that, I was fine.

Answer 6

Lexapro (escitalopram) is a useful antidepressant and antianxiety medication. The benefits outweigh the risks for most patients.

It is usually well tolerated.

The side effects (all medications have side effects) are uncommon but include: nausea, agitation, drowsiness, weight loss, weight gain, loss of libido

Don't smoke marijuana without the go-ahead from your doctor.

Answer 7

i take lexapro i can't tell any differance,i might if i go off of it ,but you never know what will happen going off med's..as for marijuana . it could be the cure for a lot of illness who knows

Answer 8

I took it before. If it will help then take it for awhile.

Regarding the drug use. You need to know that alcohol and marijuana are DEPRESSANTS. So they are going against the anti-depressants you are taking. As you doctor if you can take Benadryl or Tylenol PM to help you sleep instead