I have been on these tablets a week now and so far all i have is side effects, mornings are the worst severe anxiety for at least 2 hours. Wake at 4am everyday have maybe a hour anxiety free and it all starts again... night time is fine and i sleep but every day is crippling anxiety
Someone help pls is this normal i want to quit already but im unsure if this is the way it works
Escitalopram - A week on these and still no change, only increased anxiety?
Question posted by Why always me on 21 Oct 2022
Last updated on 22 October 2022
Added 21 Oct 2022:
I also have a burning sensation across my chest,
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Answers
masso
21 Oct 2022
These side effects are common at the beginning of treatment, do inform your Dr. (to keep a record of your progress and difficulties). The side effects should subside in a week if they do not inform your Dr., perhaps you need a dose adjustment.
You should also start to see improvements in the second week, you must be patient for your organism to adapt to the antidepressant, for the full therapeutic effect of this SSRIs (drug class) it takes 4 to 6 weeks and in some cases, depending on the person 8 weeks, bare in mind everyone differently to medications.
Be patient, I was on this medication for a year and it does work quite well, at least for me.
masso
21 Oct 2022
"bare in mind everyone reacts differently to medications"
Why always me
21 Oct 2022
Hi thanks fort the reply i didnt expect a answer, im just so concerned these pills are not working as i feel so much worse with them.. 5am wake up everyday instant clammy skin and nervous feeling, start sweating and get irritated on how to resolve it so i take propranolol to ease the horrible feeling
Why always me
21 Oct 2022
Iv got no motivation iv been stuck in bed for 2 days feeling so down and unwell. No appetite so forcing myself to eat small amount of soup
masso
21 Oct 2022
Be patient, give the antidepressant a chance, believe me, for the majority of people, Escitalopram does work, it just takes time like all medications do, mainly.
masso
21 Oct 2022
Sorry, you are welcome, anytime!
Why always me
21 Oct 2022
When i get a anxiety attack i get burning across my chest feels like fire, never had this before
WildcatVet
21 Oct 2022
Hi, Why!
Unfortunately, what you describe are very common side effects that a few people will experience in the first couple of weeks when starting an antidepressant like escitalopram (Lexapro).
"Common (1% to 10% of users): Abnormal dreams, agitation, ANXIETY, nervousness, restlessness"
"Common (1% to 10% of users): Dizziness, lethargy, PARASTHESIA, tremor"
The good news is that these side effects rarely last more than a week or two. If your anxiety is severe let your doctor know as there are short term medications that can easily get you through the next few days.
Most people will begin to see improvements during this time and this will continue to improve until the medication becomes fully effective at 4-8 weeks.
So, while I wouldn't use the word "normal" these side effects are not unexpected and are only temporary. They rarely lead to discontinuing the medication.
Best regards and you should look forward to experiencing continuing improvement.
WildcatVet
21 Oct 2022
PS, If you haven't already done so talk to your doctor about this. Besides essence of time you do have options that your doctor can advise you on.
Why always me
21 Oct 2022
My doctor doesnt seem that interested in what i have to say and just keeps telling me to carry on as it takes time, but im not coping well at all specially in thr morning, its scaring the life out of me iv never have burning in my chest before these tablets
WildcatVet
21 Oct 2022
Just keep in mind that these side effects come with the territory and aren't dangerous or unusual. It's really usually a matter of essence of time and patience until they resolve and that should be soon now for you.
Don't let your anxiety over the anxiety do the talking for you as you are strong and can get through this brief initial period. Before you know it it'll not even be a memory as you enjoy the changes in your life.
masso
21 Oct 2022
Hello my friend, I hope you are well.
When I answered this question your answer was not posted otherwise I would not have answered, but I guess that having 2 similar points of view is good for the person who posted this question.
Have a good weekend, masso
Why always me
21 Oct 2022
Thank you for the reply. I am going to wait another week if no improvement i will stop as I can't keep these symptoms going, my anxiety is a lot worse since i started taking these.
Why always me
21 Oct 2022
I also have no motivation or appetite i just feel theres no light at the end of the tunnel and ill spend the next few weeks feeling this unwell to then find the meds dont work for me and ill have to start from the beginning
WildcatVet
21 Oct 2022
Sounds like your anxiety (and a little depression) talking! You'll need to work with the medication instead of fighting against it. I know it's hard but just ask the tens of thousands of us who have been where you're at and are now happy productive folks. Don't be too overly concerned or you're going to miss the good changes that will be taking place soon enough.
It's going to be all good...
WildcatVet
21 Oct 2022
@masso.
It does seem like we run into each other a lot but as you said it's good for people to get as much support as possible.
Been through a bit of a rough patch these last few months but it's always darkest before the dawn, isn't it? It's amazing how life manages to sort itself out given time.
I hope all is well with you, my friend!
Take care, WC
Why always me
21 Oct 2022
Thankyou both so much for your support, its really helped today. Its been a tough day for me so far. The worry takes over so much sometimes x hopefully in a month or so i can write on here with positive results and a happier life
Related topics
anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, escitalopram, side effect, tablet
Further information
- Escitalopram uses and safety info
- Escitalopram prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Escitalopram (detailed)
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