[Ohwell]

I have had the skin burning, hot, but no fever for awhile. My face gets red, and hot, esp. in the evening. And my skin seems to burn more in the evening. Maybe its stress/anxiety related? I also have hypothryoidism, and you can get skin issues with that.

I know many others have stomach trouble with withdrawal. It is common.
Goodluck! ohwell.

[Ohwell]

Wrote a few days ago, but no one answered me...

I am in my 8th month off Lex. (taken almost 2 years)...my taper was fast, 3 weeks.....

I am having more trouble with fatigue and lack of appetite?

Have lost 6lbs. this month. Do you think its rebound depression?

I have alot of the depression symptoms...and I"m hypothryoid as well.
My thryoid levels are ths 2.6,...getting retested next month.

My last cancer scan was clean (3 months ago)...

What do you think? Please advise! I'm so tired, I can't work, etc. ohwell.

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by _jaxx_

Hi everyone,

Thanks for all the useful information here. I have yet another question, since I reduced my medication by another 0,5 mg, I have been having stomach problems. I have a burning sensation in my stomach, no pain and, also my skin feels every few hours as if it is burning, although I don't have a temperature.

Has anyone else had these symptoms? I saw my doctor yesterday, he says my stomach problem sound like gastritis. I also feel slightly panicky when I feel my skin burning. I have only had these problems for just over a week, but I can feel it pulling me down.

I would appreciate hearing about anyone else,s experiences.

Thanks,

Jaxx

I get some skin symptoms also but, I cannot say it is realy a burning sensation. For me it is more like a strange tingeling with some numbness and is mostly present when I am anxious. I had stomache problems while on lexapro which actually went away while I was off lex and never came back when I switched to celexa. I had the burning in my stomache and severe Reflux and had to take nexium for it. Lexapro resulted in 3 peptic ulcers for me which, have healed 100% from nexium treatment and getting off of lexapro. If you are getting burning sensations in your stomache with or without reflux, this may be a sign that you have or are developing ulcers. If it continues; get it checked out. Ulcers SUCK!....Peace...Erin

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by Ohwell

Wrote a few days ago, but no one answered me...

I am in my 8th month off Lex. (taken almost 2 years)...my taper was fast, 3 weeks.....

I am having more trouble with fatigue and lack of appetite?

Have lost 6lbs. this month. Do you think its rebound depression?

I have alot of the depression symptoms...and I"m hypothryoid as well.
My thryoid levels are ths 2.6,...getting retested next month.

My last cancer scan was clean (3 months ago)...

What do you think? Please advise! I'm so tired, I can't work, etc. ohwell.

Howdy stranger! I saw your post the other day and didnt have enough time to reply. I have been wondering how you have been. It sounds to me as though you are having some rebound deppression. If you take into consideration the changes you went through with your thyroid med's a while back and the possability that your TSH may be a bit low then, it is logical to conclude that this is the root cause of your current deppression and fatigue. Lack of appetite is common with deppression so please, don't worry to much about that. Eat when you are hungry and try to get in some healthy snacks even if it is only a few nibbles here and there. Be sure to stay hydrated. Plenty of water. Rest when you can and delegate chores to your family, you are only one person, you can only do one thing at a time and right now that means taking care of yourself. Do you take calcium with vitamin D? or Ester-C? God Bless...Erin

[erinkj]

Healing is a function of consciousness, nothing else!

The natural state of the body is wellness. When we are sick, we are out of rythm with the body's band. This discordant note signals our attention, a stopping point to reevaluate who we are and where we are going.
We accept sickness, either mental or physical fatigue as part of life.It is true that, being human, we are subject at any time, to a number of afflictions but, there isa distinction between accepting our humanness and allowing illness to be a constant part of our lives. This does not mean we should chastise ourselves when we are not in top form, but rather that we should turn our eye's inward toward discovery.
This is the time to stop, breathe deeply and realize that there is something to be learned. We may say to ourselves, "I was well, now I'm sick. What has changed or needs to be changed?"What do I need to do, or not do, to once again be in tune with my body?
Although it may seem like we wake up one day with cancer or, out of the blue suffer a heart attack, this is not really what is happening. The universe works in very subtle ways and attempts to wake us up. All illness, regardless of what it is, is a cry for consciousness.
This is a defining moment. How we choose to deal with our illness will continue to lay the groundwork for the rest of our lives. Should we rail at the God's of fate and call our destiny unfair? or do we become stoic and resigned, determined never to question this unfortunate turn of events? Either way, we remain disconnected from our body and ourselves, hoping, praying and believing there will be a reversal. But the turnaround does'nt come.
That's because only a different way of looking at all the old stuff can trigger a transition, stop the forward momentum. Unless we are open and willing to have no answers for a while, we may never be able to effect a change. Not knowing is the beginning of knowing! We must pass through this barren plain unaware that it holds the fruits of wellness.
By choosing to remain awake regardless of what happens to us, we take control. we resolve to be honest with ourselves, no matter how much it hurts, and to stay connected to the most intimate parts of our lives. Our vulnerability is what opens us, and we are determined to feel no matter how much it scares us. And then we let go, knowing we are not in charge. This is the way we truely heal. Embrace this time of unknowing then, let it go! God Bless...Erin

[Unbelievable]

Today I am one full day without Lex. I am fatigued. But NOT like I was with Lex (in fact during tapering, I gained energy). I fell asleep at work a lot while on Lex. My problem still is sitting still for periods of time. Including when driving. I used to be able to drive 12 hour days and now if I drive more than 30 minutes, I will fall asleep. Certainly this is dangerous. Today, I had to pull off the road, walk around, get coffee. This just isn't normal!! I have been to the dr. and tested for anything and everything and have been fine so the only thing I can think of is the Lex.

Can anyone who has been off for a while tell me if this is common and how long it normally lasts?

Also, I've asked before but haven't gotten an answer....is anyone off Lex losing weight? I am anxious to get these 20 extra pounds off before my wedding.

Thanks.

[auntybiotic]

Originally Posted by Ohwell

Wrote a few days ago, but no one answered me...

I am in my 8th month off Lex. (taken almost 2 years)...my taper was fast, 3 weeks.....

I am having more trouble with fatigue and lack of appetite?

Have lost 6lbs. this month. Do you think its rebound depression?

I have alot of the depression symptoms...and I"m hypothryoid as well.
My thryoid levels are ths 2.6,...getting retested next month.

My last cancer scan was clean (3 months ago)...

What do you think? Please advise! I'm so tired, I can't work, etc. ohwell.

Ohwell,
After stopping lexapro one has to wait for the serotonin receptors that died off because they were not needed to hopefully regenerate. Can take 12 months. So in the meantime, you have less natural serotonin which can cause depression, I think as time goes by and you start to produce natural serotonin you will feel better. Hypothroidism also causes symotoms of depression, have you regulataed yourself on your thryoid medication?'

You are taking omega 3's? How many? Are you taking any of the road back supplements for fatigue? Are you exercising? What supplements are you taking vitamin and minerals? Lexapro does a number on your system and you need to help your body heal.
Sorry I have not been able to answer but I have been so busy with my daughter and olans for college.

aunty

[kamandkatesmommy]

Hi Everyone, I did a search on weaning off Lexapro and came upon this site and am so happy I did. I thought I was going crazy! I was only on 10mg Lexapro and decided to wean off. I was also on Wellbutrin 300xl and went off that first without a hitch. No withdrawal, nothing. I am having a heck of a time with the Lexapro and am glad I finally found a name for the "brain zaps" I have been having, because I just couldn't describe what they felt like. I have been trying to go off of it for 2 months now, but everytime I quit the 5mg, I have such bad side effects, I end up going back on it. I am really angry at my doctor for not warning me about the withdrawal symptoms of this drug or I would never have taken it in the first place. I am disheartened to know that this is probably going to go on for quite some time, not just a few weeks. The brain zaps have been the worst for me, and I have been fearing I am going to have a seizure because they are so bad. Does anyone have any suggestions on supplements I could take to help get through this? Thanks so much, it's nice to meet you all!
Sara

[Ohwell]

God bless, and may you have an easy time coming off lex! ohwell.

[Ohwell]

Thanks for the encouragement! I have never really "had" depression before,
I had cancer., and they put me on the Lex. to help...now 2 years later, and 8 months off Lex...I'm getting the feeling I am in a depression. (my first real one)....its no fun. (if thats what it is).....God willing it is. I'm so crazy right now, I talk to myself!

Since being diagnosed with hypo. last year, my appetite hasn't been good. Just never really hungry...my 6 yr. old eats way more than me...but I hardly lost weight, as you don't being hypo...but now, its like a flatline...did have the stress of my last trip (spring break went to Texas coast to help my folks move) and my husband of 24 years had an "online" type affair which I caught him in....good grief.....and my thryoid levels have been yoyoing lately. I've been switched a few times on my thryoid meds. Maybe all that has put me in the depression....and the Lex. withdrawal, all be it awhile ago, hasn't helped. I did have a very hard time coming off it....thanks for all the positive. I like to hear some don't have an appetite with "depression".....
Aunty...
I'm taking....1-2 carlsons omega 3 fish oils a day (lunch)
levothryoixin 100 (thryoid drug) (a.m)
1 coral calcium with a few other vitamins mixed in 1 pill.(pm)
1 milk thistle daily (lunch)
green tea (lunch)
chamoile Tea (bedtime)
Bachs rescue remedity in the evening (few drops under tongue)
One teaspoon organic apple cider vinegar daily with water
I bought some selenium to help my thryoid, but haven't been real good at taking it yet. Got 50mg. as I know you can overdo it, and I want to be careful with it. What do you think aunty? I have to be careful with supplements as many are made with soy! And soy is bad for the thryoid stuff.
Thinking about adding passion flower, (is it like the bachs stuff or in a pill?)
I also want to add a good multivitamin, but don't know which one? May add Inisitol as well, but not sure?

This is the best site I've found with information to help one get healthy....
Thanks everyone for sharing alll the knowlege you may have learned with us.
Ohwell.

[Ohwell]

Page 262 on this site has great info. on supplements...scroll down near the bottom of the page to auntys titled "newcomers"...its full of ideas of what to take to help with withdrawal. (we're not doctors here, just fellow sufferers).
God bless us all. ohwell.

[Ohwell]

The weight will come off, slowly. Your metabolibism (sp?) was slowed down a bit from the Lex. This causes the weight gain. (my opinion)...
You will probably be tired for awhile once off Lex. until your body gets used to not having it. Fatigue is a very common withdrawal symptom and it can last awhile. Like many here have been saying take your supplements to help your body heal. Once you feel a bit better, maybe you can begin to exercise some. I know its so hard when your tired. I know! Even a short walk daily will help. And try to stay off coffee, it will just make you feel worse. Try some organic apple cider vinegar. 1 teaspoon a day can really energize you. and suppose to help with detox too. Look it up. Ohwell.

[COHiker]

Originally Posted by kamandkatesmommy

Hi Everyone, I did a search on weaning off Lexapro and came upon this site and am so happy I did. I thought I was going crazy! I was only on 10mg Lexapro and decided to wean off. I was also on Wellbutrin 300xl and went off that first without a hitch. No withdrawal, nothing. I am having a heck of a time with the Lexapro and am glad I finally found a name for the "brain zaps" I have been having, because I just couldn't describe what they felt like. I have been trying to go off of it for 2 months now, but everytime I quit the 5mg, I have such bad side effects, I end up going back on it. I am really angry at my doctor for not warning me about the withdrawal symptoms of this drug or I would never have taken it in the first place. I am disheartened to know that this is probably going to go on for quite some time, not just a few weeks. The brain zaps have been the worst for me, and I have been fearing I am going to have a seizure because they are so bad. Does anyone have any suggestions on supplements I could take to help get through this? Thanks so much, it's nice to meet you all!
Sara

Hi Sara,
Welcome!
Ahh, I love/loath the words "ONLY 10 mg". Let me put a rest to this misnomer. Have you ever heard of anyone taking more than 30mg? I'm sure there may be a few out there and God help them.

It sounds like such a small amount, does it not? Do yourself the favor and start thinking of 10 as 100 and it will make more sense to you about just how much you were actually taking.

Did you go from 10mg straight to 5mg? This is a very large jump
You may want to reinstate to 10mg and stay there for at least two weeks or for how ever long it takes you to not feel yucky. Then try to go down at smaller amounts. I was able to go from 10 mg down to 7.5 without any grief, but I think I have far luckier than some. I was on 10mg for almost four years

Look back at the post a few pages back for newcomers. Aunty is the "founding mother" and has done a huge amount of research for her daughter who is weaning off this drug. My advise is to get a pen and notebook and go back through this site and take some notes on what suppliments people have tried and what has been working for others. Keep a short daily log of symptoms (look at "the road back" program- just Google it-for what issues to keep track of) and see how you do about one week after each taper. I have found that about 5-7 days is how long it takes me to "feel" the effects of the tapers. The one down to 5mg was a real pisser for me, but it was too large of a jump from the 7.5. I was stuchk there for 31days-- I will never be accused of being a patient girl

Personally, I have taken barley, omega-3 (huge increase from the dose I was taking really helped), magnesium malate, whole food vitamin, and vitamin C. I have had really good results with the barley and Omega 3.

Please take the time to read back through the past threads and see what may apply to you. Some may need to taper at 5% at a time, some at 10%, some at a full milligram per decrease. It is up to how your body metabolizes this medication.

Good Luck annd stay plugged in here. As you have seen, there are some very nice and knowledgeable folks here who have been very helpful. As Aunty likes to note... no one here is an M.D. and these are only opinions of people who have traveled this bumpy road. Do your own research and consult with an understanding Dr. (hopefully one who will not role her/his eyes at you when you discuss your symptoms).

God Bless,
CO Hiker
PS Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!!!!!!

[kamandkatesmommy]

Thank you for your kind welcomes! I didn't even know I could taper more slowly. My doctor told me that 10mg is the smallest dose available, but the pills are scored so I could cut them in half, stay on that for 2 weeks and then quit. Are the in between doses available as a prescription, or do I have to figure out how to cut them to get the right dose? Thanks for your help
Sara

[Unbelievable]

Originally Posted by Ohwell

The weight will come off, slowly. Your metabolibism (sp?) was slowed down a bit from the Lex. This causes the weight gain. (my opinion)...
You will probably be tired for awhile once off Lex. until your body gets used to not having it. Fatigue is a very common withdrawal symptom and it can last awhile. Like many here have been saying take your supplements to help your body heal. Once you feel a bit better, maybe you can begin to exercise some. I know its so hard when your tired. I know! Even a short walk daily will help. And try to stay off coffee, it will just make you feel worse. Try some organic apple cider vinegar. 1 teaspoon a day can really energize you. and suppose to help with detox too. Look it up. Ohwell.

Thank you. I am taking the supplements that have been recommended. I guess this is going to be a day by day thing. I'm having a really weepy day today but I have PMS and I can't tell the symptoms apart. I am really emotional to the point of ridiculousness and I don't know how to stop it. I think I am going to go for a long walk/run before I tell my fiance I am moving out again (like I said I am being crazy). He "went to the store" I think to just get away from me. This is not good!!

[Mechelle poling]

Hello to All,
I am new to this board because I never have been on anti depressant medication until a unexpected death of a family member. My story after reading so many of yours is similar, however I believe that any woman experiencing the withdrawal symptoms of Lexapro should consider follow up testing to ensure that Lexapro "The Seventh wonder of the world" has not caused a medical condition that requires immediate or intermediate treatment. Personally I had to abruptly discontinue Lexapro 5 mg due to hives and itching and also tremendous flushing. It has been 17 days since I ingested Lexapro. Let me just say that I strongly believe Forest Lab Inc the makers of this hideous drug deserve a class action lawsuit against them for there negligence to include information to health care providers and patients of the very serious side effects from Lexapro withdrawal not to mention the serious onset sickness and diseases this drug can bring to the innocent desperate people that are trying to rely on the medical community to have quality of life.
With that being said or shall I say...my moment of ranting. .. Before Lexapro, I was a healthy mid 40 year old woman with no health issues at all and have all the medical data, testing etc in my file to prove so. I now am dealing with 30 to 40 hot flashes a day, a racing heart, onset menopause due to amenorrhea. I personally contacted Forest Labs and of course they told me that my withdrawal experiences did not simulate any of there written information nor did they feel that any similar complications from Lexapro have been reported according to there data...Can we say the words "lying drug pushers". I have a extended science education therefore began to research some interesting information that the wonderful drug can cause that the Lexapro manufactures are keeping tucked far away so they continue to sale this drug to physicians as a safe with little to no side effect "happy pill" that could be prescribed for anything from major depression to situational depression from burning the toast that morning.
First, DO NOT BE FOOLED in anyway shape or form about the 10 mg being a low dose of anti depressant medication. 10 mg of Lexapro is equivalent to 37.5 mg of most of the other anti depressants of its type. HOWEVER, Lexapro's ability to enter the bloodstream as rapid as it does makes this drug to have extreme complications and also many other physiological complications to a average amount of it's users.
IN FACT Lexapro now has THE HIGHEST treat of SUICIDE IN TEENS than any other drug in our Country..Lexapro - out of latest research shows that IN WOMEN LEXAPRO SUBSTANIALLY effects the pituitary gland (the master gland of the body), this then effects the adrenal glands (its called the HPA Axis or Hypothalmus-Pituitionary-Adreanal Axis). This then effects the entire hormonal/glandular system. This happens often and it is not unusal for someone on this drug to complain of hormonal problems - blood sugar problems, thyroid, adrenal, female problems.
Where the makers of Lexapro are failing miserably in any written information is that fact the complications that we the percentage of users that experience complications as myself, are continuing to have further medical complications due to the medications ability to "UNBALANCE" hormonal glands. So, in all actuality my "body" no longer has any remainder of the drug in it - according to all data research I could find, however some doctors are challenging this data with a shelf life of 8 to 12 weeks with Lexapro - however this has not been confirmed with any clinical trials but with all due respect, either has many of the other after effects of this drug.
I have taken matters into my own hands and had a pretty intense blood profile screening ordered by my very reluctant primary care but remember your doctor is hired by you and therefore you can insist on the same type of profile check that covers any and all testing that would indicate further evaluation.
I also have made an appointment with a well known endocrinologist in my area for even more evaluation. I am very suspicious that my acute daily symptoms are suggesting a Pituitionary problem. If any of you are experiencing the same problems once discontinuing Lexapo, I would be curious to your replies. Also anyone with more information I am all ears. Respectfully, M NP

[erinkj]

Please request salivary testing for you'r hormonal profile. Saliva testing provides the most complete and accurate results and is half the cost of blood testing. There are many independant labs that do these tests and will send the reports back to you or to you'r doctor if you wish.
Dont bother with CT scans if it is the HPA you want to focus on. PET scans are the best but, not as readily available in most cities and are VERY expensive so, the next best thing is an MRI with contrast that is best conducted in specific slices. ("Slices" reffer to specific sections)
Hives indicate an anaphylactic (sp?) type of allergic reaction and unfortunately ALL pharmecutical companies are protected by law and cannot be held liable for allergic reactions per disclaimers of ALL medications warning of this possability. Anti-deppressant manufacturers are not liable by law for suicide since the FDA FORCED the suicide "black box" warning to be printed on all the medical literature in relation to the use of these drugs. Although, there are still some loopholes in said laws. Antideppressants also now carry a stronger withdrawl/ discontinuation warning than ever before even though the severity of the withdrawl is downplayed. I have drug fact sheets on my SSRI that came from the pharmacy when my scripts were filled, One from each year that I have been taking these med's. When I compare them side-by-side there are many changes to this info from one year to the next. 11 years worth of changes. As of January 2008 the info that comes with my script carries a stronger withdrawl warning. Downplayed of course but, it is enough to make many people question wether or not to take the med's. AS for the long term use of SSRI's the world is only now beggining to see and hear of these problems EN-MASS. Forest labs as well as many other anti-deppressant manufacturers are currently conducting re-search and testing relative to the after effects of anti-deppressant use as well as their long-term use, primarily due to the mass complaints of ex-users, current consumers, watch-dog groups and even some doctors. SSRI's are mass prescribed much like the antibiotic overprescriptions of the 80's and 90's. The sheer numbers of these scripts written each year raises warning flags. G.P's write the majority of the scripts and therefor should be required to have more education than they do concerning psychiatric med's. (yet another reform that we may never see) As alarm bell's continue to go off, the scientific communtiy of medical re-search is pushing harder than ever for answers and re-search. None of this help's any of us now but, in the long run I expect that science will have many answers especially in the next few years. As consumers it is unfortunate, yet true that we have been guinea pig's in the vast drug arena. At this point in the process all that we can realy do is try to educate fellow consumers and the public at large concerning the hazards of anti-deppressants. We can conduct our own re-search, and push for the advancement of scientific/ medical re-search in this area. I have contacted state and local newspapers about these issues as story ideas for their publications, as well as health magazines and my physician. If we ALL do these things then the public stands a better chance of being informed. I have not yet contacted local television news stations but, I have that on my "To-do" list. So, these are my thoughts...Good luck to you with your recovery...Let me know if I can help in anyway...Peace....Erin

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by kamandkatesmommy

Thank you for your kind welcomes! I didn't even know I could taper more slowly. My doctor told me that 10mg is the smallest dose available, but the pills are scored so I could cut them in half, stay on that for 2 weeks and then quit. Are the in between doses available as a prescription, or do I have to figure out how to cut them to get the right dose? Thanks for your help
Sara

Lexapro is available in 5, 10 and 20 mg pills. The most accurate way to measure for dose reductions is by using the liquid form of lexapro. Ask your doctor to write you a script for the liquid lex. Many pharmacies do not carry it and some cannot get it. If that is the case at your pharmacy, then you can ask if they can order it and if not get out your phone book and check with all the pharmacies in your area. You can also get the liquid lexapro through some on-line pharmacies. Aunty has posted on this thread on how to mix your own liquid from the pills as well. Ultimately, the liquid is so much easier. I have also had the seizure worry with the brain zaps. They are so weird and feel so freaky that at times it can be terrifying. How exactly would you describe you'r?...Erin

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by Unbelievable

Thank you. I am taking the supplements that have been recommended. I guess this is going to be a day by day thing. I'm having a really weepy day today but I have PMS and I can't tell the symptoms apart. I am really emotional to the point of ridiculousness and I don't know how to stop it. I think I am going to go for a long walk/run before I tell my fiance I am moving out again (like I said I am being crazy). He "went to the store" I think to just get away from me. This is not good!!

You may be tappering faster than you'r brain can adjust which will make the process more difficult and problematic. You may need to slow down your taper and perhaps taper a bit longer. Patience is the key word in the taper process. As I taper down my PMS is worse also. I am far more irritable during that time of the month than ussuall as well as having increased panic/ anxiety attacks during the menstrual hormone fluctuations. Oh Joy . This is common. What supplements are you taking?....Erin

[erinkj]

When you are down and need encouragement, just give me a shout dear. Anything I can do to help, I will. I realy want you to be well, I know you have had such a rough time...Hang in there, we will be here for you....Erin

[erinkj]

Julia, Mary, 8monthslater: How are you ladies doing? improving any? Let me know. ....PLEASE ...Erin

[Mechelle poling]

Hello to All,
I am new to this board because I never have on anti depressant medication until a unexpected death of a family member. My story after reading so many of yours is similar, however I believe that any woman experiencing the withdrawal symptoms of Lexapro should consider follow up testing to ensure that Lexapro "The Seventh wonder of the world" has not caused a medical condition that requires immediate or intermediate treatment. Personally I had to abruptly discontinue Lexapro 5 mg due to hives and itching and also tremendous flushing. It has been 17 days since I ingested Lexapro. Let me just say that I strongly believe Forest Lab Inc the makers of this hideous drug deserve a class action lawsuit against them for there negligence to include information to health care providers and patients of the very serious side effects from Lexapro withdrawal not to mention the serious onset sickness and diseases this drug can bring to the innocent desperate people that are trying to rely on the medical community to have quality of life.
With that being said or shall I say...my moment of ranting. .. Before Lexapro, I was a healthy mid 40 year old woman with no health issues at all and have all the medical data, testing etc in my file to prove so. I now am dealing with 30 to 40 hot flashes a day, a racing heart, onset menopause due to amenorrhea. I personally contacted Forest Labs and of course they told me that my withdrawal experiences did not simulate any of there written information nor did they feel that any similar complications from Lexapro have been reported according to there data...Can we say the words "lying drug pushers". I have a extended science education therefore began to research some interesting information that the wonderful drug can cause that the Lexapro manufactures are keeping tucked far away so they continue to sale this drug to physicians as a safe with little to no side effect "happy pill" that could be prescribed for anything from major depression to situational depression from burning the toast that morning.
First, DO NOT BE FOOLED in anyway shape or form about the 10 mg being a low dose of anti depressant medication. 10 mg of Lexapro is equivalent to 37.5 mg of most of the other anti depressants of its type. HOWEVER, Lexapro's ability to enter the bloodstream as rapid as it does makes this drug to have extreme complications and also many other physiological complications to a average amount of it's users.
IN FACT Lexapro now has THE HIGHEST treat of SUICIDE IN TEENS than any other drug in our Country..Lexapro - out of latest research shows that IN WOMEN LEXAPRO SUBSTANIALLY effects the pituitary gland (the master gland of the body), this then effects the adrenal glands (its called the HPA Axis or Hypothalmus-Pituitionary-Adreanal Axis). This then effects the entire hormonal/glandular system. This happens often and it is not unusal for someone on this drug to complain of hormonal problems - blood sugar problems, thyroid, adrenal, female problems.
Where the makers of Lexapro are failing miserably in any written information is that fact the complications that we the percentage of users that experience complications as myself, are continuing to have further medical complications due to the medications ability to "UNBALANCE" hormonal glands. So, in all actuality my "body" no longer has any remainder of the drug in it - according to all data research I could find, however some doctors are challenging this data with a shelf life of 8 to 12 weeks with Lexapro - however this has not been confirmed with any clinical trials but with all due respect, either has many of the other after effects of this drug.
I have taken matters into my own hands and had a pretty intense blood profile screening ordered by my very reluctant primary care but remember your doctor is hired by you and therefore you can insist on the same type of profile check that covers any and all testing that would indicate further evaluation.
I also have made an appointment with a well known endocrinologist in my area for even more evaluation. I am very suspicious that my acute daily symptoms are suggesting a Pituitionary problem. If any of you are experiencing the same problems once discontinuing Lexapo, I would be curious to your replies. Also anyone with more information I am all ears. Respectfully, M NP

[Lori Jo]

Originally Posted by COHiker

Hi Lori Jo,

Glad to hear that things are going smooth for you so far. Keep taking it slow and you may get through this time with your brain in tact

I would recommend that if all is going well with a reduced dose just consider yourself lucky and keep pressing forward. I would give each new dose at least ten days. The decrese to 5mg was the tough one for me and I felt just great on it for until about day 6 and ended up there for about 31 days. When I say tough, it has been nothing like many others have suffered through.

Now to the point---- Barley. I did buy my first one through "the road back". It is pricey but I wanted to support their efforts (so to speak). I just purchased some Barley through Vitacost.com. The brand I bought was Garden of Life "Perfect Food- Super Green Formula". OMG, this has everything under the sun and ocean in it. I also purchased the aloe vera juice to mix it with. There is no getting around it- the stuff tastes like ******************** and smells about like cow ******************** but it is the greatest stuff! My kids think I am such a hipppy when they see me mixing my "brew"

I think you will find the "perfect food" barley will definitely help you through this and may just be something you want to do for life.

Let me know how it goes.
Happy Days,
CO Hiker

Thank you so much for your reply! I will find the Barley online. I already order Sage capsules through one website, i will look to see if they have Barley and, if not, will try the Vitacost site - thanks for the tip! I am nervous - but optimistic - about going to the 5 mg, which I will start after having been on the 7.5 mg for 17 days, I think. That will be this coming Thursday. I'll check in again soon!

[nauta]

This is a bit weird for me to talk about but... I'm a 62 yo male, had been on Lexapro x3-4 years. Initially Rxed due to dysthymia and situational anxiety (violent workplace). It helped, the bleakness of depression lifted and and the anxiety abated somewhat. Now, having retired 2 years ago, I decided to get off the stuff. Quit cold turkey from 20mg to nada about 5-6 weeks ago. It's been interesting. Had some GI stuff for a few days but thats gone, also had some headaches from hell which I assume might have been withdrawal stuff.

The thing I'm dealing with now is lethargy. I sort of have a hard time telling if the lethargy is related to withdrawal or maybe due to the ungodly nasty weather we've had this winter/spring. The Seasonal Affective Disorder thing is an issue for me...I HATE WINTER! I built a plant room, added grow lights and spend time in there along with a bunch of dumb plants, maybe it helps, who knows.

Also going on is the ahedonism, no joy in anything, just bland escaping into books or web stuff. No energy for anything.

There are also very dark and potentially lethal thoughts that lurk about. So far they are more along the lines of thinking I'm bored with life and if it were over, good. There are darker moments too but I won't act on them because of how it would affect my sons'. My youngest (15) is still at home.

I realize that a lot of what I'm describing sounds like the symptoms of the depression which initially brought me to SSRIs. Now it becomes more of an issue which is worse, the cause or the cure. Hopefully there is still some component of withdrawal from the Lexapro going on. Perhaps time and maybe Spring weather will alleviate some of this. I've read several older posts here and realize I'm saying nothing new...perhaps I just need to say it is happening for me too, the same as it has for others.
Regardless, thanks for reading, nauta

[ivysphotomom]

Hi there,

I noticed in one of your recent posts, you mentioned your TSH was 2.6.

I also have hypothyroidism (Hashimotos - the auto-immune form), and have learned from reading on thyroid boards, and experience, that most women don't feel well until they can get their TSH down to around 1.0. The usual 'normal' reference range of .05-5.0 is way too broad. When they first dx my hypothyroidism 10 yrs ago, my TSH was 'only' 5.2. But my Dr. was smart enough to check for thyroid antibodies, and they were sky high.

We had tried for 2 full years, with a miscarriage in between, to conceive our second child 3 years before. So I went and saw a reproductive endocrinologist, to be make sure everything was working well, before trying for our third.

When I started on my first month of thyroid meds (back then, I was taking the natural form, Armour Thyroid, have since switched to Levothyroxin, as you're on, but taking only 50mcg/day), I got pregnant in my first month of trying!

Anyhow, you may want to see where your T3 and T4 levels are. I went off Armour, because my T3 got too high on it. My last TSH test 2 weeks ago was 1.2. At least that's in good shape! Now if I can just get this damn Lexapro out of my system someday!

I reinstated it at 5mg a few months ago, then bumped it back up to 10mg a couple of weeks ago, after starting to experience w/d symptoms again.

I also take Omega 3s as you do, and have found they are a huge help. Also take milk thistle. And recently discovered the beauty of Bach Flower Remedies! Am currently taking: Rescue, Sweet Chestnut, Star of Bethlehem, Aspen and Mustard. Have noticed not needing my small dose of xanax lately! Yeah!

Take Care,

~Mary

[ivysphotomom]

Hi Sara,

Welcome! I'm fairly new here as well! Just found these boards in Dec., after going cold turkey off lexapro! (20mg for 3 days, 15mg for 1 month, 10mg for 3 months, 5mg for 3 days, then stopped!)

I've since reinstated the lexapro. A few months ago, at 5mg, then recently, back up to 10mg, after noticing nasty side effects again. Mainly, depression, shakiness, erratic sleep, etc. That, along with the Bach Flower Remedies I mentioned in my post above to Ohwell seem to be making a difference.

I've got 4 children. Looks like you're a mom too! Mine are girl 16, boy 12, girl 8 and boy 4! A little bit of everything going on! Plus I run my own photography business! So I REALLY need to get better soon!

My Dr. put me on lexapro after the sudden death of my best friend of 24 yrs, this past August. I wish I had NEVER gone on it! It has really wreaked havoc on my life!

I saw a psychiatrist back in Dec., who wanted to switch me to Effexor (yikes) and swore to me up and down that there would be NO side effects after stopping Lexapro! Geeze! I told her, just google 'lexapro withdrawal'!!! So many Drs. are so stubborn, and refuse to do a little investigation before they put people on these meds!

I mean, I think Lexapro has probably, or hopefully, helped more people than it's harmed. But, I really think, as my current psychologist says, that Drs. just don't really thoroughly understand what these meds can do! In my case, it never helped with anxiety/depression. We all metabolize things differently.

Anyhow, welcome! And try to find a bottle of the Carlson's Omega 3 fish oils. I take probably 2 tsps a night with dinner, and they've really helped. There's a lot of good advice here!

Oh, Lexapro also comes in 5mg tablets. So you could break those into fourths, and take it in 1.25mg variations of doses. It's just so dang expensive, no matter what the dose! About $30/month, with my insurance! So I'm sticking with 20mg now, and breaking them in half. Then asked my Dr. for 10mg, so I can break those into fourths, and maybe cut from 10mg down to 7.5? I'll have to do more reading about tapering. I may just need to do it more slowly, and ask for the liquid...

Take Care,

~Mary

[ivysphotomom]

I'm sorry you're having a rough day!

I don't get PMS (luckily one thing I don't get ), but can relate to the ups and downs you're going through.

Have you tried the Bach Flower Remedies? If nothing else, pick up a little bottle of the Rescue Remedy, and see if that helps. I've recently found they really help me. It almost feels like a cloud lifting! Couldn't hurt to try them!

Take Care, and try to find some support on these boards!

~Mary

[_jaxx_]

Hi everyone,

First of all Erin thanks for your interesting info and support.

I am going through a pretty rough time trying to get of this medication, as I already mentioned, stomach problems, today I ended up in the emergency room with unbearable stomach burning, after an examination it seems I have either duodanal gastritis or the makings of a duodanal ulcer, oh joy.

So next week I have the pleasure of an endoscopy, I don't know how many of you guys also suffered from panic, but the thought of the examination is not a pleasant one.

Due to spending most of the day at the hospital I couldn't take my daily dose of Lexapro until 4 hours after the usual time I take it, and now I feel very strange, one-sided headache, and vertigo, and underlying panic.

I reduced my dose just by 0.5 mg, a week ago, am now on 3mg, which my doctor says is nothing, but believe me it really still has an effect. How long do you think I should take before I reduce it again?

What do you guys do on these bad days, how do you get through them?

I would be grateful for any support.

Thanks,

Jaxx

P.S: Are all you guys from the States, is anyone from Europe?