Lexapro Withdrawal

[mohannie]

Hi all,

To those who are new to the group, welcome. I've been sick for a few days, so I haven't had a chance to post. While spending time in bed, I have been wondering if Lexapro has any effect on the immune system. I've been sick three times within the past two months. Has anyone else been more susceptible to catching colds or any type of upper respiratory infection?

[auntybiotic]

quote:Originally posted by auntybiotic

Mr. Spock,

You are absolutely right SSRI's do LOWER 5HIAA Serotonin levels drastically.

Lexapro raises 5HT serotonin which are the reupake inhibitors. Yet at the same time Lexapro and all SSRI's lower the 5-HIAA serotonin metobolite leaving a lower serotonin turnover and the important 5-HIAA serotonin.(Buss et. al., 1975; Nabeshima et al., 1983)

ADDITIONAL EVEIDENCE OF SSRI'S LOWERING THE SEROTONIN LEVELS WERE BROUGH OUT AT A YALE STUDY SUBMITTED IN 1991 in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Drastic drops in serotonin levels were reported even after just one month on SSRI's.

In Case #1 the patient serotonin levels went from 170 ng/ml to 11.1 ng/ml after one month use of Prozac.In Case #2 patient's serotonin levles dropped from 140 ng/ml to 9.3 ng/ml within eight weeks of starting Prozac.The serotonin levels were measured by whole blood.

The SSRI's by reducing levels of the 5HIAA serotonin should produce the listed behaviors associated with low 5HIAA serotonin levels, ie:

Arson, violence, alcoholism, depression, insommnia, impulsive behavior, etc.These are many symptoms that these patients were placed on SSI's to alleviate. SSRI's have been found to LOWER the 5Ht serotonin which is found in serious mental disorders.

Lexapro and all SSRI's are ELEVATING 5HT serotonin levels, just what they were disgned to do." When a drug increases 5HT serotonin and decreases 5-HIAA serotonin metabolism, what is the end result?
When 5HT serotonin levls are high what we find is;
#1 scizophrenia (psychosis, mania, etc.)
#2 mood disorders (depression, anxiety)
#3 organic brain disease
#$ autism (autism is a sel centered mental state with no basis in reality).
#5 Alzheimer disease
#6 old age

When 5-HIAA levela are low we find:

#1 Suicide
#2 Arson
#3 Violent Crimes
#4 Insomnia
#5 Depression
#6 Alcohol abuse
#7 Impulsive acts with no regard for punishment
#8 Reckless Driving
#9 Exhibitonism
#11 Bulemia
#12 Multiple sucide attempts
#13 More Hostility
#14 Arguments with relatives, spouses, friends etc.
#15 Obessive compulsive behavior
#16 Impaired employment due to arguments

Many persons taking SSRI's report a strong urge to drink alcohol. Reports have shown that low levels of 5-HIAA serotonin are linked to alcoholism and Lexapro has this effect.
Serotonergic drugs, the SSRI's were designed to RAISE not NRMALIZE, the levels of the serotonin 5HT.It is very rare to find a reformed alcoholic that is taking a SSRI and has been able to stay away from alcolol because of the overwhelming urge the SSRi's can cause to drink alcohol.

Are the SSRI's removing inhibitations causing a compulsion for alcohol or is this a physical reaction through altering blood sugar levels".

Does Lexapro and the SSRI's inhibit the liver's function to the extent that alcohol metabolism is being inhibited? The JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION studies from January 1, 1992 showed that Tagamet and Zantac inhibited the production of a enzyme which metabolizes alcohol. It showed that Zantac increased blood alcohol concentrations by 34% and that Tagamet increased blood concentrations by 92%. Even a small amount of alcohol in persons taking these drugs cause them to become staggering drunks. It is felt that SSRI's work in the same way.


So one can see that studies demonstrate that SSRI use actually lowers selected serotonin brain levels and serotonin whole blood levels. It is unsure if the receptors are able to regenerate due to inactivity after SSRI use . The excerpts in this POST were taken from Dr. Anne Blake Tracy's Book: Prazac Panacea or Pandora. The book is excellent and highly recommended.

Sarche,
My concern, by taking the Lexapro one to two hours earlier each day, is in essence INCREASING the levels of the Lexapro in your blood stream which is defeating the purpose if you are trying to taper.

The first day you take your dose and then the next day you take the same dose after 22 hours, then the next day you take the same dose after 20 hours.................this method may be counterproduvtive if you are trying to taper off lexapro.

My phamacist suggested to take a 1/8 portion of the Lexapro pill at the regular time at 7 PM and then 12 hours later take the regular full dose. You will still expeience some of the withdrawals from changing doses but it would not be as drastic as changing the times daily and having changing levels of lexapro levels daily with increasing levels.

Are those of you taking lexapro in the AM still getting sleeplessness at night??

[ghostsurfer4]

quote:Originally posted by auntybiotic

quote:Originally posted by auntybiotic

Mr. Spock,

You are absolutely right SSRI's do LOWER 5HIAA Serotonin levels drastically.

Lexapro raises 5HT serotonin which are the reupake inhibitors. Yet at the same time Lexapro and all SSRI's lower the 5HIAA serotonin metobolite leaving a lower serotonin turnover and the important 5HIAA serotonin.(Buss et. al., 1975; Nabeshima et al., 1983)

ADDITIONAL EVEIDENCE ODF SSRI'S LOWER THE SEROTONIN LEVELS WERE BROUGH OUT AT A YALE STUDY SUBMITTED IN 1991 in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Drastic drops in serotonin levels were reported even after just one month on SSRI's.

In Case #1 the patient serotonin levels went from 170 ng/ml to 11.1 ng/ml after one month use of Prozac.In Case #2 patient's serotonin levles dropped from 140 ng/ml to 9.3 ng/ml within eight weeks of starting Prozac.The serotonin levels were measured by whole blood.

The SSRI's by reducing levels of the 5HIAA serotonin should produce the listed behaviors associated with low 5HIAA serotonin levels, ie:

Arson, violence, alcoholism, depression, insommnia, impulsive behavior, etc.These are many symptoms that these patients were placed on SSI's to alleviate. SSRI's have been found to LOWER the 5Ht serotonin which is found in serious mental disorders.

First of all Lexapro and all SSRI's are ELEVATING 5HT serotonin levels, just what they were disgned to do." When a drug increases 5HT serotonin and decreases 5HIAA serotonin metabolism, what is the end result?
When 5HT serotonin levls are high we find is
#1 scizophrenia (psychosis, mania, etc.)
#2 mood disorders (depression, anxiety)
#3 organic brain disease
#$ autism (autism is a sel centered mental state with no basis in reality).
#5 Alzheimer disease
#6 old age

When 5HIAA levela are low we find:

#1 Suicide
#2 Arson
#3 Violent Crimes
#4 Insomnia
#5 Depression
#6 Alcohol abuse
#7 Impulsive acts with no regard for punishment
#8 Reckless Driving
#9 Exhibitonism
#11 Bulemia
#12 Multiple sucide attempts
#13 More Hostility
#14 Arguments with relatives, spouses, friends etc.
#15 Obessive compulsive behavior
#16 Impaired employment due to arguments

Many persons taking SSRI's report a strong urge to drink alcohol. Reports have shown that low levels of 5HIAA serotonin are linked to alcoholism and Lexapro has this effect.
Serotonergic drugs, the SSRI's were designed to RAISE not NRMALIZE, the levels of the serotonin 5HT.It is very rare to find a reformed alcoholic that is taking a SSRI and has been able to stay away from alcolol because of the overwhelming urge the SSRi's can cause to drink alcohol.

Are the SSRI's removing inhibitations causing a compulsion for alcohol or is this a physical reaction through altering blood sugar levels".

Does Lexaprp and the SSRI's inhibit the liver function to the extent that alcohol metabolism is being inhibited? The JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION studies from January 1, 1992 showed that Tagamet and Zantac inhibited the production of a enzyme which metabolizes alcohol. It showed that Zantac increased blood alcohol concentrations by 34% and that Tagamet increased blood concentrations by 92%. Even a small amount of alcohol in persons taking these drugs cause them to become staggering drunks. It is felt that SSRI's work in the same way.


So one can see that studies prove that SSRI use actually lowers serotonin brain levels and serotonin whole blood levels. It is unsure if the receptors are able to regenerate after SSRI use . The excerpts in this POST were taken from Dr. Anne Blake Tracy's Book: Prazac Panacea or Pandora. The book is excellent and highly recommended.

Sarche,
My concern, by taking the medication one to two hours earlier each day, is in essence INCREASING the levels of the Lexapro in your blood stream which is defeating the purpose if you are trying to taper.

The first day you take your dose and then the next day you take the same dose after 22 hours, then the next day you take the same dose after 20 hours.................this method may be counterproduvtive if you are trying to taper off lexapro.

My phamacist suggested to take a 1/8 portion of the Lexapro pill at the regular time at 7 PM and then 12 hours later take the regular full dose. You will still expeience some of the withdrawals from changing doses but it would not be as drastic as changing the times daily and having changing levels of lexapro levels daily with increasing levels.The blood levels should still remain consistant enough with the previous dose and the additional 1/8 dose that going the 12 additional hours without the full dose should not have that great of a impact.

Are those of you taking lexapro in the AM still getting sleeplessness at night??

I had none of these problems or feelings when I was on Lexapro. I took it for around 2 months a couple years ago but decided I didn't want to take it anymore so I just stopped and went through withdrawel at all.

[debbie724]

auntybiotic,

Thank you so much for your encouraging words and for making me feel like a person in here. I've been reading a lot of your messages and you are a VERY wise, caring, intellagent woman. I've been on lexapro 10mg. for about 3 or 4 years... 20mg. for about 6 or 7 months. I started tappering about 3 weeks ago... went from 20mg. to 10mg. for 2 weeks and then to 5mg. for a week. I haven't taken any for 2 or 3 days now. I was diagnosed with depression about 20 years ago and went through many different antidepressants and many different psychiatrist until finding Wellbutrin... my family doctor put me on 300 mg. along with luvox for OCD. (I have no idea how many years ago... a lot). Somewhere along the line I stopped taking the luvox. I still frequently suffered with severe depression off and on and extreme elation off and on and was in therapy with a psychologist forever!!! After a suicide attempt my doctor gave me 2 choices... #1 be hospitalized or #2 move in with my parents and see a psychiatrist that she tells me to see. I chose #2. This doctor was a life saver for me... it turned out that I had been misdiagnosed all those years... I am bipolar... which no doubt... you already figured out. He added to my 300mg. of Wellbutrin (150mg. x 2 a day)... 1500mg. of Depakote (500mg. x 3 a day) and 1mg. of Ativan (1 to 2 x a day). I no longer see a psychiatrist or psychologist... my family doctor works with me and my meds. My maintenance dosage is 300mg. Wellbutrin, 1000mg. Depakote, and 1mg. Ativan. My depression, anxiety, OCD, and panic attacks are under control. After leaving my husband my doctor added the Lexapro... as I did need a boost. I had been hospitalized having panic attacks 4 or 5 times over a 2 or 3 year period... was feeling SO much guilt for leaving... depression was a part of my life again. I didn't mean to insinuate that my husband cheated on me... he met his girlfriend on a diving trip (Egypt for one month) a few months after I left him. When I left him he told me that I could come back anytime... he truly did love me... it was me that was no longer "in" love with him. He came from a family where love was known... not shown. I came from a family of huggers and kissers... and love was not only known... it was definatly shown. For many - many years I felt empty in our marriage... without the affection that he did not know how to show. So I finally got up the nerve to move on. Well, I couldn't handle the guilt and decided to go back to him and just settle... after all... I knew that he loved me more than any man could EVER... he was a great provider... and the father of my child. Five months after leaving him I decided to meet him at the airport and surprise him with my news... that I was coming home. He didn't want me back. This was the beggining of a 5 1/2 year roller coaster ride! I no longer felt guilty... because he evened the score. Now he was feeling guilty. He kept leaving the girlfriend and moving back in with me and our daughter... but still seeing the girlfriend off and on. This went on several times and I finally told his the last time was the last! We drew up divorce papers and filed for divorce and you know the rest. For the record... the reason my doc increased my Lexapro to 20mg. 6 or 7 months ago was because I was in trouble with myself again... I was working for an abussive manager (who was recently fired) and approaching the final divorce and in the process of moving for the 5th time in 5 1/2 years. As for withdrawal symptoms... I expressed in a previous message that I was having (and still occasionally have) periods of severe itching (25mg. of benydryl and not scrathing helps with that problem). I also was having difficulty sleeping... that has gotten worse. Fortunately I am not presently working (because of that abussive manager) so the sleeping problem isn't too much of a problem for me. I just sleep when I can. Last night I started experiencing some dizziness... which is even worse this morning. Oh yeah... headaches the first week or two... but that is no longer a problem. I am a little concerned about the dizziness... just hope it doesn't get worse. Didn't mean to write a book here. Hope I didn't bore anyone else. Thanks again auntybiotic... I will keep you up to date on my current symptoms and any more that may occur.

Debbie

PS - Sorry about the spelling... I don't have spell check either.

[Redbled]

Mohannie,

I have not had more sickness this winter, actually less. At times I have wondered if my body would not let me get sick since I already was messed up. But I think its more a result of me being almost phobic about getting anything. I know having say the flu on top of withdrawal would really be bad. So I wash my hands all the time, avoid people who are sick, eat very little sugar, no chocolate, and less milk products, which I believe have a lot to do with colds, etc.

Mr. Spock,

I think you are onto something with avoiding sugar. I know I feel better on days I don't have any. You're right we will all get over this

Other rambing thoughts,

I'd like opinions on these 2 ideas. First, has anyone noticed having more trouble when they are in a car? I live where I work, so only travel in a vehicle about once or twice a week. Last Wednesday was the last time I went somewhere, and my head felt really bad when driving, just wondered about this.

The other thing has to do with this. I'm beginning to think these withdrawals really go in cycles. Before the past week, the longest I had gone without feeling bad was 2 days. Last week, I had 6 straight days where I felt very well. Starting 2 nights ago, then yesterday, I felt very badly. Today I still do not feel great, but much better than yesterday. I'm just believing we will have more good days each time we "cycle" Any thoughts on either of these.

Only took Lexapro for 10 days, as a doctors response to my brief anxiety over a treatable medical condition. Took my last pill at the very end of August.

[auntybiotic]

Hi Debbie,

Sounds like you made a wise decision, love not shown is not felt. Feeling no love is very lonley. Hoe there is a special someone waiting to meet you and shower you with attention.

But first you have to put this Lexapro experience behind you. You may start to feel the worst about day 7 to 14 with no lexapro.

Go out and buy nondroswy formula draminine or "Bonnie" sea sick medication to help with the dizziness. You may get the electric zaps in your head so don;t be suprised if you do. This is all part of the HELL of Withdrawaling from Lexapro.

Are you taking the Omega 3 Fish Oil and a good multivitamin with minerals? Magnesium Citrate will help with the sleeplessness and help your body to heal. You may also get a disconnected feeling of unreality............this happens when one tapers quickly as you have done. Noni Juice available at the Vitamin Shoppe will help this feeling.

Keep us informed and hopefully we can offer support.

[Miss Lee]

Hi all-

Well I am definately doing a bit better. I am no longer crying all the time-and only have the urge to cry about every two days. Even then, the feeling will go away even if i start. I do have chest pain (hey does anyone here remeber Body E saying he had chest pain?) and the front of my head feels pressure as does the base of my skull. My trembling is not entirely gone, but I notice comes back with a vengence if I am over tired or over stimulated. My newly aquired anxiety is hit and miss, but going down. It feels as if i am climbing a slippery hill. Up two steps to go back one. i will just be thankful that I am slowly progressing forward.

Red- I drive all the time and seems not to notice increased symptoms.

Mr. Spock- How are you and your updated symptoms?

Aunty- When you going on Oprah with this story of yours? Many prayers for you daughter.

Miss Lee

[Mr Spock]

Hi all,
Wow, Auntybiotic you are incredible!!!! The research that you do and the information you share with us is absolutely wonderful. And particularly the fact that your own journey, with your health, specifically your knees (is that improvement since you had that injection into the joint still helping?), plus your expertise with caring for your daughter through an incredibly difficult prolonged and crucial time in her life, plus still have time and altruistic motivation to help and inspire others makes you a hero in my book!!!
I do have one question from your last post, however. As you may remember, I have mentioned on previous posts that from my reading (mainly experiences on www.socialaudit.org.uk), many anecdotally state that they feel the worst at 3 months after their last dose. Could this be connected to a resurgence of re-uptake functioning returning coupled with the continuing low level of serotonin in the body? In other words, low 5HT, and 5HIAA together? And if so, does DR Tracy mention the symptoms from this? I tried to buy her book last week but it is not available locally, or via American distributors in Australia. I am combing the municipal libraries at present, so it may turn up...
The other thing is that I would like to correct something from yesterdays post. When I used the word, "Cholecysteine", I should have written "Acetylcholine". My apologies for confusing anyone, and I blame SSRI withdrawals for my faux pas...
Redbled, I agree with you about the cycle thing, although I really haven't got to the stage of having really "good days" yet. However, some days, or groups of days are worse than others. From my speculation above, I believe that the body has to go through several stages of adjustment, not just one uniform process. Part of this must include periods of instability and variance... As for the car thing, I really enjoy driving. I have a "sports" car with an absolutely wonderful sound system, and I when I have a good CD on, I really am in another world. So, in this situation, I suppose I am taking advantage of the de-realisation and disorientation symptoms!!!
Miss Lee, nice to hear from you, and keep climbing those steps. It is inevitable that you will reach the top soon. How is you weight going? Also, from what I can gather, the brain stem is one of the main areas of serotonin production (along with the pineal gland), so like mine and others who have this soreness/pressure, yours is still working towards lots of serotonin made naturally (without drugs or artificial stimulants) and lovingly!
Mohannie, apart from your sickness, how are you travelling on the anti-depressant front? Any side-effects ie Anxiety??

Live long and prosper.

[brilly]

my story is this: my parents and boyfriend were basically concerned with how I was acting after taking Lexapro (30mg) for about 6 months now. I had started becoming lethargic and sleeping all the time, and basically disaffected. This same thing has happened with all the antidepressants I've tried (60mg Celexa, and then 60mg Celexa plus 150mg WellbutrinSR, stretching back to May of '03). My doctor keeps telling me that if I switch meds, I need to be on them for at least a year more. I certainly used to need them and they helped a lot... but lately I just feel like they're causing me to act depressed even more than I used to feel, without the suicidal thoughts and acting out. I'm tired of switching and adding drugs... I don't want to be on them anymore. When I accidentally miss a dose, I no longer feel out of control and suicidal. So I stopped taking them 4 days ago. I figured I had also contracted the flu or something too, until I started reading this forum. I have had the ZZZZZZAAAAPS, dizziness and blurry vision many times before, just during the day when I was supposed to take Lexapro in a few hours or something, so I figured that that was the worst of it and I had just gotten sick concurrent to quitting taking it. I guess not. I've had hot and cold flashes, and slight nausea from being dizzy, also a pretty bad headache from oversensitivity to light and sound. So I took 10mg today and it kind of dissipated. But this is dumb. I'm not working right now, mostly because of meds, and I've been trying to get a job for a couple months now and I feel like I'll be unable to even walk around for the next couple weeks if I do this. And if I don't, I won't be able to get out of bed until 7.30 pm every night. I'm going to have to borrow money from my parents which makes me feel bad, and blah blah blah..... you get the picture.

[debbie724]

auntybiotic,

The dizziness has definately not gotten any better, today I'm itching pretty bad, and I am experincing floaters in my vision. The night before last I guess my body was exhausted from not sleeping... and I slept all night (9 hours). Last night I was back to a four hour sleep night. On a good note... I've lost 5 pounds and I've got SO much more energy. I've been reading and reading SO many people's messages regarding LEXAPRO in this forum and others... and I've learned a LOT. I wanted off the LEXAPRO because of my weight gain. I have found that I share that problem with MANY - MANY people... on an average of 30 lbs. and one person gained 60 lbs. The majority of these people... like me... had not changed my eating habits to enable weight gain, tried dieting... without success... tried excersising... without success... and so on. Here are some of the other things that I found that MANY people... like me... experienced while on LEXAPRO. Excessive sweating and warm all the time... I thought I was beginning menopause early (as did other people), but I've been tested and told I wasn't. Excessive dreaming... not being able to tell sometimes if I dreamt something or it actually happened... my daughter was getting worried about this. Wanting to be alone all the time... and being okay with it. Having ZERO energy. Sleeping most of my days away... including naps. Diarreah. Loss of interest in sex.

That's all I can think of now... I'll let you know if I remember anymore later.

Your are going on Oprah? When? I definately want to see that show.

Later!

debbie

[debbie724]

auntybiotic,

I thought of one more thing... while taking LEXAPRO I kept my house at 64 at night and 68 during the day. I could only sleep with a sheet and had to use a fan. If and when I did housework... 68 was too high! Now I actually experience chills. Haven't had chills for years! I keep the heat at 68 at night and 70 during the day. I don't need the fan to sleep... but still only use a sheet. I could actually stand 72 during the day... but trying to conserve. My daughter is much happier living in a warmer home. I haven't slept in my bedroom for years... too warm upstairs. Maybe soon I'll be able to get back there.



debbie

[auntybiotic]

Hi Everyone,

No I am not going on Oprah, I think the drug companies are TOO powerful and that "OUR" stories will never become public other then by forums such as this. Do you know how many billions of dollars SSRI sales bring in per year?

Mr. Spock and Debbie,

Thank you for your kind words. My knees are still doing 90% better. I still am continuing to walk quite well and the " metal walker" I bought on E bay has not been put to use. ( I hope that I will never need to unwrap it from the plastic package it was mailed to me in.) The synthetic joint replacement shots are suppose to last about six months and it may be going on two months since I had them. Believe me, I will gladly endure the pain of a series of three more injections in exchange for being able to walk without pain and severe stiffness. I wsa so pathetic when I attempted to walk prior to the shots that men and women were offering to help me and I am still young.

Mr. Spock,

I accidently ordered two of Dr. Tracey's books and you can gladly have it as a gift if you will share what wisdom you gain from reading it with this forum. I also can mail you her CD's titled. "Help I Cannot Get Off My Antidepressants". Maybe as you are driving in your sports car you can listen to the CD's. (In advance, they skip in a plave or two because I got sctatches by not returning them to the cases.) You can e mail me privately with a safe place to mail them in Austrailia.

Debbie,

You sound just like my daughter. She is still on 10.6 Mg of Lexapro and is always HOT and I am always cold so I end up walking around the house bundled up. She was very ill yesterday with severe dirahhea. Not sure if it's the "real" flu or withdrawal related but she is going to school late today. She was up throught the night visiting the bathroom.

If the dizziness does not improve, try the dramamine.

Dr. Tracy does state that withdrawal from SSRI's are like two steps forward and one step backwards. She suggests to keep a daily journel because when the times get bad it's hard to remember that there were a few days that one did feel better.

As you look over the journel you will see a pattern that the days feeling better will get longer and the days feeling horrible will be spaced further apart as you heal.

Yes, Mr. Spock. I do recall that it is not only the neurotransmitters regenerating, but the entire processes in the body get out of balance as various chemicals are naturally attempting stabilize. So as the serotonin is readjusting, thus the Dopamine needs to readjust and so on.Then the GABA needs to stabalize. Thus the feeling bad as the body is going thru the complicated but delicate process.The Pineal glands, the endocrine system, the nervous system.......they were all affected and as they heal..............that is the reasons why the up and down feeling of wellness comes and goes. Think of it in layers. As one layer heals, the next layer is making changes to also heal. It can take about 18 months to go thru the process for many who have suffrered thru this ordeal.

Brilly,

Welcome, slowly tapering off will cause you less side effects in the long run. Lexapro, as you can see has caused chemical changes in your body, thus the zaps as the neurotransmitters are misfiring. The more slowly you taper the better your body will be able to handle the changes and compensate for them. Beleieve me. I am a mother and I would give my daughter as much money as she needed as long as she took the time to get better. Parents love their children so don't worry about having to borrow money from you Mom.

Here is a post that may help some so I am pasting it. Gotta run and get my darling up for school.


Insomnia is a typical effect of coming off the drug.
> I think a lot of
> it is due to excess adrenalin....and/or not enough
> GABA. now....you
> can take GABA as a supplement...it should *i think*
> be taken with
> inositol....but i can not say how much or what time
> of day etc etc.
> Another way to go at it is with glutamine or
> glutamic acid...in
> supplement or food source. again...start slowly and
> wean up slowly to
> see how you react to any amino supplements.
> Another way to go at it would be an adrenal tonic or
> support. I use
> Standard Process brand "Adrenal Dessicated". Its
> adrenal you eat...so
> the body gets the message that you have
> adrenalin...and it stops
> producing extra. over time...the adrenal glands get
> to rest up and
> stop over producing adrenalin and cortisol.
>
> basically...what you are aiming at....is calming the
> body throughout
> the day so it can rest fully at night. affirmations,
> candle light, a
> warm bath....relaxation techniques.....all those
> things will
> eventually help you sleep better and thru the night.
>
>
> If you have looked into the EFT stuff
> http://www.mercola.com/forms/eftcourse.htm
> You might try using it with an affirmation of...even
> tho i might not
> sleep soundly all night i completely accept myself.
> That was some of
> the first stuff i did to shift the sleep patterns. I
> also did
> Colorpuncture. http://www.colorpuncture.com
>
> peace
> have a blessed holiday.
> beverly
>
>

[auntybiotic]

Debbie,

Forgot to mention the itch is quite common.

I pasted a post regarding another SSRI but it seems that withdrawal from all SSRI's are very similiar.

"this is my story. i suffered from chronic insomnia and my doc
> referred me to a psychiatrist who prescribed me ssri/sleeping
tablet
> combination. i was put on trazodone/faverin/prozac/remeron for
> altogether 6 weeks. i was finally taken off the ssri becos my doc
> felt i was much too sensitive to the ssri. but i got some very very
> weird reactions after stopping.
>
> at first my arms felt like lead. then i developed itch without
rash.
> then i got painful pin prinks mainly on my fingers and toes but
> sometimes over my body. then i got very sensitive skin. there is a
> feeling of warmth over my thighs.and my ear develops pressure and
> pops even without change in altitude. somedays it feels like i am
> not able to think as if something is suppressing my thoughts. i
also
> get brain shivers. at times my eyes are unable to focus. my brains
> are also very much slower and i'm unable to handle stress very well
> vs what i was able to last time.
>
> it's been 7 weeks since and i do not know if i am better as the
> symptoms do change. i went to a neurologist who does not think i am
> suffering from withdrwal but just that my senses are too hyped up
> and needs some sedation. so he asked me to take lexotan 0.75 mg 3
> times per day.
>
> has anyone experienced similar reactions and how long does it take
> for it to normalise? thank you all for your time."
>
>
>

[Redbled]

Someone that knows a mod please let them know the bad people are back

Only took Lexapro for 10 days, as a doctors response to my brief anxiety over a treatable medical condition. Took my last pill at the very end of August.

[auntybiotic]

For those wanting a complete list of Lexapro Withdrawal symptoms:

LEXAPRO
Lexapro withdrawal. How to avoid Lexapro withdrawal side effects click here

Read Lexapro side effects defined. Note: These Lexapro side effects are also Lexapro withdrawal side effects.

Lexapro withdrawal Body
Lexapro withdrawal Dry Mouth - The usual amount to moisture in the mouth is noticeably less.
Lexapro withdrawal Sweating Increased - A large quantity of perspiration that is medically caused.
Lexapro withdrawal Cardiovascular (Involving the heart and the blood vessels)
Lexapro withdrawal Palpitation - Unusual and not normal heartbeat, that is sometimes irregular, but rapid and forceful thumping or fluttering. It can be brought on by shock, excitement, exertion, or medical stimulants. A person is normally unaware of his/her heartbeat.
Lexapro withdrawal Hypertension - is high blood pressure, which is a symptom of disease in the blood vessels leading away from the heart. Hypertension is known as the “silent killer”. The symptoms are usually not obvious, however it can lead to damage to the heart, brain, kidneys and eye, and even to stroke and kidney failure. Treatment includes dietary and lifestyle changes.
Lexapro withdrawal Bradycardia - The heart rate is slowed from 72 beats per minute, which is normal, to below 60 beats per minute in an adult.
Lexapro withdrawal Tachycardia - The heart rate is speeded up to above 100 beats per minute in an adult. Normal adult heart rate is 72 beats per minute.

Lexapro withdrawal ECG Abnormal - A test called an electrocardiogram (ECG) that records the activity of the heart. It measures heartbeats as will as the position and size of the heart’s four chambers. It also measures if there is damage to the heart and the effects of drugs or mechanical devices like a pacemaker on the heart. When the test is abnormal this means that one or more of the following are present: heart disease, defects, beating too fast or too slow, disease of the blood vessels leading from the heart or of the heart valves, and/or a past or about to occur heart attack.
Lexapro withdrawal Flushing - The skin all over the body turns red.

Lexapro withdrawal Varicose Vein - Unusually swollen veins near the surface of the skin that sometimes appear twisted and knotted, but always enlarged. They are called hemorrhoids when they appear around the rectum. The cause is attributed to hereditary weakness in the veins aggravated by obesity, pregnancy, pressure from standing, aging, etc. Severe cases may develop swelling in the legs, ankles and feet, eczema and/or ulcers in the affected areas.

Lexapro withdrawal Gastrointestinal (Involving the stomach and the intestines)
Lexapro withdrawal Abdominal Cramp/Pain - Sudden, severe, uncontrollable and painful shortening and thickening of the muscles in the belly. The belly includes the stomach as well as the intestines, liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, gall bladder, and urinary bladder.

Lexapro withdrawal Belching - Noisy release of gas from the stomach through the mouth; a burp.

Lexapro withdrawal Bloating - Swelling of the belly caused by excessive intestinal gas.

Lexapro withdrawal Constipation - Difficulty in having a bowel movement where the material in the bowels is hard due to a lack of exercise, fluid intake, and roughage in the diet, or due to certain drugs.

Lexapro withdrawal Diarrhea - Unusually frequent and excessive, runny bowel movements that may result in severe dehydration and shock.

Lexapro withdrawal Dyspepsia - Indigestion. This is the discomfort you experience after eating. It can be heartburn, gas, nausea, a bellyache or bloating.

Lexapro withdrawal Flatulence - More gas than normal in the digestive organs.

Lexapro withdrawal Gagging - Involuntary choking and/or involuntary throwing up.

Lexapro withdrawal Gastritis - A severe irritation of the mucus lining of the stomach either short in duration or lasting for a long period of time.

Lexapro withdrawal Gastroenteritis - A condition where the membranes of the stomach and intestines are irritated.

Lexapro withdrawal Gastroesophageal Reflux - A continuous state where stomach juices flow back into the throat causing acid indigestion and heartburn and possibly injury to the throat.

Lexapro withdrawal Heartburn - A burning pain in the area of the breastbone caused by stomach juices flowing back up into the throat.

Lexapro withdrawal Hemorrhoids - Small rounded purplish swollen veins that either bleed, itch or are painful and appear around the anus.



Lexapro withdrawal Increased Stool frequency - Diarrhea.

Lexapro withdrawal Indigestion - Unable to properly consume and absorb food in the digestive tract causing constipation, nausea, stomach ache, gas, swollen belly, pain and general discomfort or sickness.

Lexapro withdrawal Nausea - Stomach irritation with a queasy sensation similar to motion sickness and a feeling that one is going to vomit.

Lexapro withdrawal Polyposis Gastric - Tumors that grow on stems in the lining of the stomach, which usually become cancerous.

Lexapro withdrawal Swallowing Difficulty - A feeling that food is stuck in the throat or upper chest area and won’t go down, making it difficult to swallow.

Lexapro withdrawal Toothache - Pain in a tooth above and below the gum line.

Lexapro withdrawal Vomiting - Involuntarily throwing up the contents of the stomach and usually getting a nauseated, sick feeling just prior to doing so.

Lexapro withdrawal General
Lexapro withdrawal Allergy - The extreme sensitivity of body tissues triggered by substances in the air, drugs, or foods causing a reaction like sneezing, itching, asthma, hay fever, skin rashes, nausea and/or vomiting.
Lexapro withdrawal Anaphylaxis - A violent, sudden, and severe drop in blood pressure caused by a re-exposure to a foreign protein or a second dosage of a drug that may be fatal unless emergency treatment is given right away.
Lexapro withdrawal Asthenia - A physically weak condition.
Lexapro withdrawal Chest Pains - Severe discomfort in the chest caused by not enough oxygen going to the heart because of narrowing of the blood vessels or spasms.
Lexapro withdrawal Chills - Appearing pale while cold and shivering; sometimes with a fever.
Lexapro withdrawal Edema of Extremities - Abnormal swelling of the body’s tissue caused by the collection of fluid.
Lexapro withdrawal Fall - To suddenly lose your normal standing upright position as if you were shot.
Lexapro withdrawal Fatigue - Loss of normal strength so as to not be able to do the usual physical and mental activities.
Lexapro withdrawal Fever - Abnormally high body temperature, the normal being 98 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Centigrade in humans, which is a symptom of disease or disorder in the body. The body is affected by feeling hot, chilled, sweaty, weak and exhausted. If the fever goes too high, death can result.
Lexapro withdrawal Hot Flashes - Brief, abnormal enlargement of the blood vessels that causes a sudden heat sensation over the entire body. Women in menopause will sometimes experience this.
Lexapro withdrawal Influenza-like Symptoms - Demonstrating irritation of the respiratory tract (organs of breathing) such as a cold, sudden fever, aches and pains, as well as feeling weak and seeking bed rest, which is similar to having the flu.
Lexapro withdrawal Leg Pain - A hurtful sensation in the legs that is caused by excessive stimulation of the nerve endings in the legs and results in extreme discomfort.
Lexapro withdrawal Malaise - The somewhat unclear feeling of discomfort you get when you start to feel sick.
Lexapro withdrawal Pain in Limb - Sudden, sharp and uncontrolled leg discomfort.
Lexapro withdrawal Syncope - A short period of light headedness or unconsciousness (black-out) also know as fainting caused by lack of oxygen to the brain because of an interruption in blood flowing to the brain.
Lexapro withdrawal Tightness of Chest - Mild or sharp discomfort, tightness or pressure in the chest area (anywhere between the throat and belly). The causes can be mild or seriously life-threatening because they include the heart, lungs and surrounding muscles.
Lexapro withdrawal Hemic and Lymphatic Disorders (Involving the blood and the clear fluids in the tissues that contain white blood cells)
Lexapro withdrawal Bruise - Damage to the skin resulting in a purple-green-yellow skin coloration that’s caused by breaking the blood vessels in the area without breaking the surface of the skin.
Lexapro withdrawal Anemia - A condition where the blood is no longer carrying enough oxygen, so the person looks pale and easily gets dizzy, weak and tired. More severely, a person can end up with an abnormal heart, as well as breathing and digestive difficulties. The causes of anemia are not enough protein in the red blood cells, or missing and chemically destroyed red blood cells, as well as diseased or destroyed bone marrow.
Lexapro withdrawal Nosebleed - Blood lost from the part of the face that has the organs of smell and is where the body takes in oxygen.
Lexapro withdrawal Hematoma - Broken blood vessels that cause a swelling in an area on the body.
Lexapro withdrawal Lymphadenopathy Cervical - The lymph nodes in the neck, which are part of the body’s immune system get swollen and enlarge by reacting to the presence of a drug. The swelling is the result of the white blood cells multiplying in order to fight the invasion of the drug.
Lexapro withdrawal Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders (Energy and health)
Lexapro withdrawal Arthralgia - Sudden sharp nerve pain in one or more joints.
Lexapro withdrawal Arthropathy - Having joint disease or abnormal joints.
Lexapro withdrawal Arthritis - Painfully inflamed and swollen joints. The reddened and swollen condition is brought on by a serious injury or shock to the body either from physical or emotional causes.
Lexapro withdrawal Back Discomfort - Severe physical distress in the area from the neck to the pelvis along the backbone.

Lexapro withdrawal Bilirubin Increased - Bilirubin is a waste product of the breakdown of old blood cells. Bilirubin is sent to the liver to be made water-soluble so it can be eliminated from the body through emptying the bladder. A drug can interfere with or damage this normal liver function creating liver disease.

Lexapro withdrawal Decreased Weight - Uncontrolled and measured loss of heaviness or weight.

Lexapro withdrawal Gout - A severe arthritis condition that is caused by the dumping of a waste product called uric acid in the tissues and joints. It can become worse and cause the body to develop a deformity after going through stages of pain, inflammation, severe tenderness, and stiffness.

Lexapro withdrawal Hepatic Enzymes Increased - An increase in the amount of paired liver proteins that regulate liver processes causing a condition where the liver functions abnormally.

Lexapro withdrawal Hypercholesterolemia - Too much cholesterol in the blood cells.

Lexapro withdrawal Hyperglycemia - An unhealthy amount of sugar in the blood.

Lexapro withdrawal Increased Weight - A concentration and storage of fat in the body accumulating over a period of time caused by unhealthy eating patterns, that can predispose the body to many disorders and diseases.

Lexapro withdrawal Jaw Pain - The pain due to irritation and swelling of the nerves associated with the mouth area where it opens and closes just in front of the ear. Some of the symptoms are pain when chewing, head aches, losing your balance, stuffy ears or ringing in the ears, and teeth grinding.

Lexapro withdrawal Jaw Stiffness - The result of squeezing and grinding the teeth while asleep that can cause your teeth to deteriorate as well as the muscles and joints of the jaw.

Lexapro withdrawal Joint Stiffness - A loss of free motion and easy flexibility where any two bones come together.

Lexapro withdrawal Muscle Cramp - When muscles contract uncontrollably without warning and do not relax. The muscles of any of the body’s organs can cramp.

Lexapro withdrawal Muscle Stiffness - Tightening of muscles making it difficult to bend.

Lexapro withdrawal Muscle Weakness - Loss of physical strength.

Lexapro withdrawal Myalgia - A general widespread pain and tenderness of the muscles.

Lexapro withdrawal Thirst - A strong, unnatural craving for moisture/water in the mouth and throat.
Lexapro withdrawal Nervous System (Sensory channels)
Lexapro withdrawal Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - A pinched nerve in the wrist that causes pain, tingling, and numbing.

Lexapro withdrawal Coordination Abnormal - A lack of normal, harmonious interaction of the parts of the body when it is in motion.

Lexapro withdrawal Dizziness - Losing one’s balance while feeling unsteady and lightheaded which may lead to fainting.

Lexapro withdrawal Disequilibrium - Lack of mental and emotional balance.

Lexapro withdrawal Faintness - A temporary condition where one is likely to go unconscious and fall.

Lexapro withdrawal Headache - A sharp or dull persistent pain in the head

Lexapro withdrawal Hyperreflexia - A not normal and involuntary increased response in the tissues connecting the bones to the muscles.

Lexapro withdrawal Light-headed Feeling – Uncontrolled and usually brief loss of consciousness caused by lack of oxygen to the brain.

Lexapro withdrawal Migraine - Reoccurring severe head pain usually with nausea, vomiting, dizziness, flashes or spots before the eyes, and ringing in the ears

Lexapro withdrawal Muscle Contractions Involuntary - Spontaneous and uncontrollable tightening reaction of the muscles caused by electrical impulses from the nervous system.

Lexapro withdrawal Muscular Tone Increased - Uncontrolled and exaggeration muscle tension. Muscles are normally partially tensed and this is what gives us muscle tone.

Lexapro withdrawal Paresthesia - Burning, prickly, itchy, or tingling skin with no obvious or understood physical cause.

Lexapro withdrawal Restless Legs - A need to move the legs without any apparent reason. Sometimes there is pain, twitching, jerking, cramping, burning, or a creepy-crawly sensation associated with the movements. It worsens when a person is inactive and can interrupt one’s sleep so one feels the need to move to gain some relief.

Lexapro withdrawal Shaking - Uncontrolled quivering and trembling as if one is cold and chilled.

Lexapro withdrawal Sluggishness - Lack of alertness and energy, as well as being slow to respond or perform in life.

Lexapro withdrawal Tics - A contraction of a muscle causing a repeated movement not under the control of the person usually on the face or limbs.

Lexapro withdrawal Tremor - A nervous and involuntary vibrating or quivering of the body.

Lexapro withdrawal Twitching - Sharp, jerky and spastic motion sometimes with a sharp sudden pain.

Lexapro withdrawal Vertigo - A sensation of dizziness with disorientation and confusion.

Lexapro withdrawal Psychiatric Disorders (Mental and emotional)
Lexapro withdrawal Aggravated Nervousness - A progressively worsening, irritated and troubled state of mind.

Lexapro withdrawal Agitation - Suddenly violent and forceful, emotionally disturbed state of mind.

Lexapro withdrawal Amnesia - Long term or short term, partial or full memory loss created by emotional or physical shock, severe illness, or a blow to the head where the person was caused pain and became unconsciousness.

Lexapro withdrawal Anxiety Attack - Sudden and intense feelings of fear, terror, and dread physically creating shortness of breath, sweating, trembling and heart palpitations.

Lexapro withdrawal Apathy - Complete lack of concern or interest for things that ordinarily would be regarded as important or would normally cause concern.

Lexapro withdrawal Appetite Decreased - Having a lack of appetite despite the ordinary caloric demands of living with a resulting unintentional loss of weight.

Lexapro withdrawal Appetite Increased - An unusual hunger causing one to overeat.

Lexapro withdrawal Auditory Hallucination - Hearing things without the voices or noises being present.

Lexapro withdrawal Bruxism - Grinding and clenching of teeth while sleeping.

Lexapro withdrawal Carbohydrate Craving - A drive and craving to eat foods rich in sugar and starches (sweets, snacks and junk foods) that intensifies as the diet becomes more and more unbalanced due to the unbalancing of the proper nutritional requirements of the body.

Lexapro withdrawal Concentration Impaired - Unable to easily focus your attention for long periods of time.

Lexapro withdrawal Confusion - Not able to think clearly and understand in order to make a logical decision.

Lexapro withdrawal Crying Abnormal - Unusual and not normal fits of weeping for short or long periods of time for no apparent reason.

Lexapro withdrawal Depersonalization - A condition where one has lost a normal sense of personal identity.

Lexapro withdrawal Depression - A hopeless feeling of failure, loss and sadness that can deteriorate into thoughts of death.

Lexapro withdrawal Disorientation - A loss of sense of direction, place, time or surroundings as well as mental confusion on personal identity.

Lexapro withdrawal Dreaming Abnormal - Dreaming that leaves a very clear, detailed picture and impression when awake that can last for a long period of time and sometimes be unpleasant.

Lexapro withdrawal Emotional Lability - Suddenly breaking out in laughter or crying or doing both without being able to control the outburst of emotion. These episodes are unstable as they are caused by things that normally would not have this effect on an individual.

Lexapro withdrawal Excitability - Uncontrollably responding to stimuli.

Lexapro withdrawal Feeling Unreal - The awareness that one has an undesirable emotion like fear but can’t seem to shake off the irrational feeling. For example, feeling like one is going crazy but rationally knowing that it is not true. The quality of this side effect resembles being in a bad dream and not being able to wake up.

Lexapro withdrawal Forgetfulness - Unable to remember what one ordinarily would remember.

Lexapro withdrawal Insomnia - Sleeplessness caused by physical stress, mental stress or stimulants such as coffee or medications; it is a condition of being abnormally awake when one would ordinarily be able to fall and remain asleep.

Lexapro withdrawal Irritability - Abnormally annoyed in response to a stimulus.

Lexapro withdrawal Jitteriness - Nervous fidgeting without an apparent cause.

Lexapro withdrawal Lethargy - Mental and physical sluggishness and apathy that can deteriorate into an unconscious state resembling deep sleep. A numbed state of mind.

Lexapro withdrawal Libido Decreased - An abnormal loss of sexual energy or desire.

Lexapro withdrawal Panic Reaction - A sudden, overpowering, chaotic and confused mental state of terror resulting in being doubt ridden often accompanied with hyperventilation, and extreme anxiety.

Lexapro withdrawal Restlessness Aggravated - A constantly worsening troubled state of mind characterized by the person being increasingly nervous, unable to relax, and easily angered.

Lexapro withdrawal Somnolence - Feeling sleepy all the time or having a condition of semi-consciousness.

Lexapro withdrawal Suicide Attempt - An unsuccessful deliberate attack on one’s own life with the intention of ending it.

Lexapro withdrawal Suicidal Tendency - Most likely will attempt to kill oneself.

Lexapro withdrawal Tremulousness Nervous - Very jumpy, shaky, and uneasy while feeling fearful and timid. The condition is characterized by thoughts of dreading the future, involuntary quivering, trembling, and feeling distressed and suddenly upset.

Lexapro withdrawal Yawning - involuntary opening of the mouth with deep inhalation of air.

Lexapro withdrawal Reproductive Disorder Female
Lexapro withdrawal Breast Neoplasm - A tumor or cancer, of either of the two milk-secreting organs on the chest of a woman.
Lexapro withdrawal Menorrhagia - Abnormally heavy menstrual period or a menstrual flow that has continued for an unusually long period of time.
Lexapro withdrawal Menstrual Cramps - Painful, involuntary uterus contractions that women experience around the time of their menstrual period, sometimes causing pain in the lower back and thighs.
Lexapro withdrawal Menstrual Disorder - A disturbance or derangement in the normal function of a woman’s menstrual period.
Lexapro withdrawal Pelvic Inflammation - The reaction of the body to infectious, allergic, or chemical irritation, which in turn causes tissue irritation, injury, or bacterial infection characterized by pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes loss of function. The reaction usually begins in the uterus and spreads to the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and other areas in the hipbone region of the body.
Lexapro withdrawal Premenstrual Syndrome - Various physical and mental symptoms commonly experienced by women of childbearing age usually 2 to 7 days before the start of their monthly period. There are over 150 symptoms including eating binges, behavioral changes, moodiness, irritability, fatigue, fluid retention, breast tenderness, headaches, bloating, anxiety, and depression. The symptoms cease shortly after the period begins, and disappear with menopause.
Lexapro withdrawal Spotting Between Menses - Abnormal bleeding between periods. Unusual spotting between menstrual cycles.
Lexapro withdrawal RESPIRATORY SYSTEM (Organs involved in breathing)
Lexapro withdrawal Asthma - A disease of the breathing system initiated by and allergic reaction or a chemical with repeated attacks of coughing, sticky mucus, wheezing, shortness of breath, and a tight feeling in the chest. The disease can reach a state where it stops a person from exhaling, leading to unconsciousness and death.
Lexapro withdrawal Breath Shortness - Unnatural breathing using a lot off effort resulting in not enough air taken in by the body.
Lexapro withdrawal Bronchitis - Inflammation of the two main breathing tubes leading from the windpipe to the lungs. The disease is marked with coughing, a low-grade fever, chest pains, and ho????ness, caused by an allergic reaction.
Lexapro withdrawal Coughing - A cough is the response to an irritation, such as mucus, that causes the muscles controlling the breathing process to expel air from the lungs suddenly and noisily to keep the air passages free from the irritating material.
Lexapro withdrawal Laryngitis - Inflammation of the voice box characterized by ho????ness, sore throat, and coughing. It can be cause by straining the voice or exposure to infectious, allergic or chemical irritation.
Lexapro withdrawal Nasal Congestion - The presence of an abnormal amount of fluid in the nose.
Lexapro withdrawal Pneumonia Tracheitis - Bacterial infection of the air passageways and lungs that causes redness, swelling and pain in the windpipe. Other symptoms are high fever, chills, pain in the chest, difficulty in breathing, and coughing with mucus discharge.
Lexapro withdrawal Rhinitis - Chemical irritation causing pain, redness and swelling in the mucus membranes of the nose.
Lexapro withdrawal Sinus Congestion - The mucus-lined areas of the bones in the face that are thought to help warm and moisten air to the nose. These areas become clogged with excess fluid or infected.
Lexapro withdrawal Sinus Headache - The abnormal amount of fluid in the hollows of the face bone area especially around the nose. This excess fluid creates pressure, causing pain in the head.
Lexapro withdrawal Sinusitis - The body reacting to chemical irritation causing redness, swelling and pain in the area of the hollows in the facial bones especially around the nose.
Lexapro withdrawal SKELETAL
Lexapro withdrawal Neck/Shoulder Pain - Hurtful sensations of the nerve endings caused by damage to the tissues in the neck and shoulder signaling danger of disease.

Lexapro withdrawal SKIN and APPENDAGES DISORDERS (Skin, legs and arms)
Lexapro withdrawal Acne - Eruptions of the oils glands of the skin, especially on the face, marked by pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, bumps, and more severely, by cysts and scarring.
Lexapro withdrawal Alopecia - The loss of hair or baldness.

Lexapro withdrawal Eczema - A severe or continuing skin disease marked by redness, crusting and scaling with watery blisters and itching. It is often difficult to treat and will sometimes go away only to reappear again.
Lexapro withdrawal Dermatitis - Generally irritated skin that can be caused by any of a number of irritating things such as parasites, fungus, bacteria, or foreign substances causing an allergic reaction. It is a general inflammation of the skin.
Lexapro withdrawal Dry Lips - The lack of normal moisture in the fleshy folds that surround the mouth.
Lexapro withdrawal Dry Skin - The lack of normal moisture/oils in the surface layer of the body. The skin is the body’s largest organ.



Lexapro withdrawal Folliculitis - Inflammation of a follicle (small body sac) especially a hair follicle. A hair follicle contains the root of a hair.



Lexapro withdrawal Furunculosis - Skin boils that show up repeatedly.



Lexapro withdrawal Lipoma - A tumor of mostly fat cells that is not health endangering.



Lexapro withdrawal Pruritus - Extreme itching of often-undamaged skin.



Lexapro withdrawal Rash - A skin eruption or discoloration that may or may not be itching, tingling, burning, or painful. It may be caused by an allergy, an skin irritation, a skin disease.



Lexapro withdrawal Skin Nodule - A bulge, knob, swelling or outgrowth in the skin that is a mass of tissue or cells.



Lexapro withdrawal SPECIAL SENSES



Lexapro withdrawal Conjunctivitis - Infection of the membrane that covers the eyeball and lines the eyelid, caused by a virus, allergic reaction, or an irritating chemical. It is characterized by redness, a discharge of fluid and itching.



Lexapro withdrawal Dry Eyes - Not enough moisture in the eyes.



Lexapro withdrawal Earache - Pain in the ear.



Lexapro withdrawal Eye Infection - The invasion of the eye tissue by a bacteria, virus, fungus, etc, causing damage to the tissue, with toxicity. Infection spreading in the body progresses into disease.



Lexapro withdrawal Eye Irritation - An inflammation of the eye.



Lexapro withdrawal Metallic Taste - A range of taste impairment from distorted taste to a complete loss of taste.



Lexapro withdrawal Pupils Dilated - Abnormal expansion of the blace circular opening in the center of the eye.



Lexapro withdrawal Taste alteration - Abnormal flavor detection in food.



Lexapro withdrawal Tinnitus - A buzzing, ringing, or whistling sound in one or both ears occurring from the internal use of certain drugs.



Lexapro withdrawal Vision Abnormal - Normal images are seen differently by the viewer.



Lexapro withdrawal Vision Blurred - Eyesight is dim or indistinct and hazy in outline or appearance.



Lexapro withdrawal Visual Disturbance - Eyesight is interfered with or interrupted. Some disturbances are light sensitivity and the inability to easily distinguish colors.

Lexapro withdrawal URINARY SYSTEM DISORDER
Lexapro withdrawal Blood in Urine - Blood is present when one empties liquid waste product of the kidneys through the bladder by urinating in the toilet turning the water pink to bright red. Or you could see pots of blood in the water after urinating.
Lexapro withdrawal Dysuria - Difficult or painful urination.
Lexapro withdrawal Kidney Stone - Small hard masses of salt deposits that the kidney forms.
Lexapro withdrawal Urinary Frequency - Having to urinate more often than usual or between unusually short time periods.
Lexapro withdrawal Urinary Tract Infection - An invasion of bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc., of the system in the body that starts with the kidneys and eliminates urine from the body. If the invasion goes unchecked it can injure tissue and progress into disease.
Lexapro withdrawal Urinary Urgency - A sudden compelling urge to urinate, accompanied by discomfort in the bladder.
Lexapro withdrawal UROGENITAL (Urinary tract and genital structures or functions)
Lexapro withdrawal Anorgasmia - Failure to experience an orgasm.
Lexapro withdrawal Ejaculation Disorder - Dysfunction of the discharge of semen during orgasm.
Lexapro withdrawal Menstrual Disorder - Dysfunction of the discharge during the monthly menstrual cycle.
Lexapro withdrawal Acute Renal Failure - The kidneys stop functioning properly to excrete wastes.



Lexapro withdrawal Angioedema - Intensely itching and swelling welts on the skin called hives caused by an allergic reaction to internal or external agents. The reaction is common to a food or a drug. Chronic cases can last for a long period of time.

Lexapro withdrawal Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis - An abnormal condition where a large portion of skin becomes intensely red and peels off like a second-degree burn. Often the symptoms include blistering.
Lexapro withdrawal Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage - Stomach and intestinal excessive internal bleeding.
Lexapro withdrawal Grand Mal Seizures (or Convulsions) - A recurring sudden violent and involuntary attack of muscle spasms with a loss of consciousness.

Lexapro withdrawal Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome - A life threatening, rare reaction to an anti-psychotic drug marked by fever, muscular rigidity, changed mental status, and dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system.



Lexapro withdrawal Pancreatitis - Chemical irritation with redness, swelling, and pain in the pancreas where digestive enzymes and hormones are secreted.



Lexapro withdrawal QT Prolongation - A very fast heart rhythm disturbance that is too fast for the heart to beat effectively so the blood to the brain falls causing a sudden loss of consciousness and may cause sudden cardiac death.



Lexapro withdrawal Rhabdomyolysis - The breakdown of muscle fibers that releases the fibers into the circulatory system. Some of the fibers are poisonous to the kidney and frequently result in kidney damage.



Lexapro withdrawal Serotonin Syndrome - A disorder brought on by excessive levels of serotonin caused by drugs and can be fatal as death from this side effect can come very rapidly.



Lexapro withdrawal Thrombocytopenia - An abnormal decrease in the number of blood platelets in the circulatory system. A decrease in platelets would cause a decrease in the ability of the blood to clot when necessary.



Lexapro withdrawal Torsades de Pointes - Unusual rapid heart rhythm starting in the lower heart chambers. If the short bursts of rapid heart rhythm continue for a prolonged period it can degenerate into a more rapid rhythm and can be fatal.

Lexapro withdrawal. How to avoid Lexapro withdrawal side effects click here

[debbie724]

auntybiotic,

I knew that your daughter was having problems... but I didn't know that you also had a story. Thanks for sharing that with me. And thank you for that list of possible withdrawal symptoms.

Other things that I have had... that I didn't know were possible withdrawl symptoms... acid reflux, leg aches, pin pricks, and burping. I was wondering what was up with that!

Talk to you later.


debbie

[jungone]

I saw the old post below -- []which exactly describes how I am feeling right now, and my initial 15-second doctor visit resulting in a year-and-a-half of numbness and apathy. Meanwhile, 30 pounds later, I think this stage is worse than the head zaps and snaps and initial nausea and headaches of quitting cold turkey. I am determined to remain Lexapro-free.

"To all with Lexapro withdrawal problems, I am currently experiencing what I unlovingly call "Stage Two" of withdrawal. This is the stage when the dizziness becomes only a haunting echo and the sweats and chills diminish. However, the emotional withdrawal has begun. I am prone to crying spells, thoughts of self-harm, and hopelessness, especially at night.

Overall, I have been on Lexapro for a year and a half, and don't think I should ever have been put on it. Psychotropic drugs are very easily prescribed these days, especially to teenagers who experience mood swings due to hormonal fluctuation. Usually you don't even need someone who specializes in psychology to prescribe you, just a fifteen-minute physician's visit and two weeks of samples."

[mohannie]

Mr. Spock (and everyone else),

I had a bit of a crying spell last week, and I still have feelings where I want to be destructive. For example, I have urges to throw glass dishes and things like that. I have also thought about cutting myself, but I have resisted the urge. I have an appointment with my therapist in a couple of hours, so I'll let you guys know how that goes.

As far as physical symptoms go, I'm still having headaches every now and then, but that's about it. I can't attest to weight gain because I've been heavy all my life. I still suffer from a distorted way of thinking, such as believing no one cares or loves me when I have people around me that do. I'm making strides and I want you all to know that you guys inspire me and we'll all get through this!!!!

[auntybiotic]

Debbie,

Your post made me smile.I never thought of my handicap as a story, just a inconvenience. I developed arthritis in both knees and have two torn meniscuses that had made it impossible to walk. I was planning to have surgery when I decided to go for a second opinion.

Well thank God I did as that is when the Syntek(SP?) shots were suggested. And now the arthritis seems to have temporarily disappeared. This is nothing in comparison to what all of you as well as my daughter are going thru. I had only mentioned it previously because I would have been off line for a few days if I had had the surgery.

I guess everyone has minor problems in life. I still have the two torn miniscus in both knees but at this point do not feel it needs surgery.
Thank you for being interested but seriously in comparison, my pain cannot compare to withdrawal from SSRI's.Actually going thru not being able to walk for about eight months mademe realize how much in life is taken for granted.

[Mr Spock]

Hi All,
Now things are starting to crystalise I think Auntybiotic. It really makes sense that there are going to be all sorts of compensatory changes between various organs, neuro-transmitters, and hormones occurring. It was really interesting to note that blood levels of serotonin drop to less than 10% of normal when we are on a dose of an SSRI for a period of time. No wonder the withdrawal effects are so bad when the SSRI wears off!!!! Your list of side-effects was incredibly illuminating, and to think that these drugs were promoted as not having the side-effects of the Tri-Cyclics!!!
As has been mentioned in several texts, serotonin is utilised all through the body with only about 5% in the brain. However, the Pineal Gland plays a fairly influential part in its regulation, so must be really affected by SSRI's. So therefore, whilst I am a bit of an adherent to optimising the body to heal itself, I think perhaps the Omega 3, and Vitamins B6 and B12 are useful.
In relation to additives, does 5HT, St John's Wort, SAMe and LTrytophan operate on the re-uptake or just increase the blood level of serotonin???
Mohannie, you strike me as a vulnerable sensitive person, particularly when you say that no-one cares or loves you. I'm not sure if you know the song, but whenever you feel like this, put on "The Greatest Love of All". I prefer the George Benson version over the Whitney Houston one personally but basically as the words go, "To love yourself is the greatest love of all". This is not meant to imply egotism or arrogance, or anything at the expense of others, but really a pure statement of self affirmation and self inspiration. I must admit during vulnerable times, ie after a "tragic romance",this song has brought me to tears with its beauty and power. "My Way" is another one as well...
Anyway, I'm getting a bit soppy so I'll go now.

Peace and Long Life

[Redbled]

I hope no one is offended by this, as its not the intention, but Mr. Spock, if I were not straight, I'd really want you. What a wonderful stud you are, neat to see someone who cares so well and much for everyone

Only took Lexapro for 10 days, as a doctors response to my brief anxiety over a treatable medical condition. Took my last pill at the very end of August.

[RedPA]

Hey mohannie,
Hope you are feeling better. Post how your appt went.

Update on Lex wean: I have one more dose and I'm off the Lexapro.

I'm doing ok so far this week. One of my friends was killed yesterday. I'm still in shock but I know some of these things don't make sense. her bf stabbed her to death over something minor, apparently. Her 15 mos old daughter was there, but unharmed. I am praying for the little girl, and my friend's family.

[auntybiotic]

Redbled,

Your post made me giggle, I don't think I laughed out loud for months. Mr. Spock is quite a compassionate and sensitive "stud" and we all have the hots for him. (smile).Mr. Spock, now I know what has been drawing the 135,000 readers to this forum, it is your uplifting and inspiring messages. Now we are all trying to picture a face behind the "Spock" sports car. Seriously, you are a asset to this forum and we are lucky to be inspired by your wisdom. I will research how the Same and St. John Worts work and will post later. Goodnight all, Redbled, I am still smiling. Mr. Spock, I hope you are not offended by our admiration, Thank You and Goodnight All.

[sarche]

quote:Originally posted by auntybiotic

quote:Originally posted by auntybiotic

Mr. Spock,

Sarche,
My concern, by taking the Lexapro one to two hours earlier each day, is in essence INCREASING the levels of the Lexapro in your blood stream which is defeating the purpose if you are trying to taper.

The first day you take your dose and then the next day you take the same dose after 22 hours, then the next day you take the same dose after 20 hours.................this method may be counterproduvtive if you are trying to taper off lexapro.

My phamacist suggested to take a 1/8 portion of the Lexapro pill at the regular time at 7 PM and then 12 hours later take the regular full dose. You will still expeience some of the withdrawals from changing doses but it would not be as drastic as changing the times daily and having changing levels of lexapro levels daily with increasing levels.

Are those of you taking lexapro in the AM still getting sleeplessness at night??

Has anyone slept well and fuctioning well when they were taking lexapro? That was why I asked the question of when is the best time to take lexapro.

I have been on lexapro 15 mg for about 3 months for depression (work related). I like advice if I should taper off now while I am tapering-off clonazepem using valium. How would I handle my depression if it comes back? Any advice is appreciated.

Sar

[tamra]

Thanks so much for the listing of possible withdrawal symptoms...is there also a listing for the possible side effects that I haven't found here? I'm finding out that the health problems that I've had for the past 3 years may all be lexapro related. I had no idea. I'm noticing that as my dose lessens...my problems are lessening also. Thanks in advance for any advice! Tamra


Live every day to it's fullest!

[RedPA]

It is odd how hard it is to have real emotions/reactions while on Lex. I posted yesterday about my friend's death. She was a very good person and didn't deserve what happened to her. I have not even cried yet from her death.

[mohannie]

Thanks Mr. Spock for the suggestion. I am a very sensitive person, and I have discovered through my therapist that I have a very distorted way of thinking when I'm depressed. He also gave me a couple of excersises to do to try to correct this. My "sane" mind knows that there are people all around me who love me, but when I get depressed, it's very hard to see anything positive. So I'm working to correct my ways of thinking, but I have a long, hard road ahead of me.

[Torxis]

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mornin' All, hope everyone is well today.

Somebody, please send help. I need advice! Ok, here goes. I have 124 days clean today from a nasty heroine addiction. During my use I would run into this guy, I'll call him Ed. Eventually we became friends and often used together. Following the program I naturally have been avoiding people, places and things. I got a phone call from Ed out of the blue this week after, I don't know, 6 months. He used last Saturday and says he's had enough. He says he's been going to meetings on and off and after talking for awhile he asked if we could go to meetings together. I really want to help. In fact I have a need to help but I'm scared. I'm a single dad so I have no trouble making excuses, though he knows my ex takes the boys 2 nights a week, tonight being one of those nights. I swore up and down at him, that if he, even jokingly suggested that we pick up I would (figuratively) break his neck. He swore up and down that he'd be good. Should I try it. I could use a ride to get to meetings as I had my car stolen last year while copping drugs. I'm torn, they say in the rooms how users will get you to pick up before you get them clean, but on the other hand how important it is for one addict to help another. What should I do. I'm confused, but do have the sense and maturity to take sound advice. Ed has a three year old daughter who needs her father to be whole again. As a dad I feel for her too. SEND HELP!!
Thanx>>>>TORXIS

[tamra]

To Sarche, I went on Lexapro about 3 yrs ago. My doctor said to take it first thing in the morning. After a week I called my doctor and told him that the Lexapro made me so drunk feeling that I couldn't even remember how I drove to work...was this normal? He then told me to take it at night. I took it right before bed with my allergy/sinus pill and slept like a baby every night. The best part was the waking up. As soon as my eyes were open, I was wide awake, stretching, putting on my sneakers and heading for the coffee pot! right now I really miss those times...if I didn't have a family and a time schedule, I'm sure that I'd be sleeping most of the day away. It takes at least an hour of coffee and staring at the computer to be fully awake and able to think and speak now.

Please keep in mind that this wonderful sleeping has to be the ONLY goodness that came out of my Lexapro experience. It was a miracle happy pill in the beginning, but the weight gain, other health problems and steady decline in my well-being, despite the increases in dosage have caused me to (thankfully) rethink "how I'm doing". As my dosage decreases now, my thoughts seem to be clearer..I'm on my way to being Lexapro free. Tamra


Live every day to it's fullest!

[marylun1]

Hello,

I've been on 10 mg of lexapro for about 4 months for depression. My depression has subsided, however, I've experienced weight gain. I don't want to gain any more weight and since I'm feeling better I would like to go off lexapro but I'm not sure how to do it. Has anyone else experienced weight gain? Any difficulty losing the weight once you went off the medication, any advice on how to slowly decrease the meds with the least bit of side effects? I would contact my doctor, however, I switched jobs so I'm not covered right now. Thanks for the help and advice!