I was prescribed lexapro 10 mg for severe anxiety/ depression. Today is my 4th day and I've already had 1 panic attack the second day I was on the medication. I had not had any panic attacks for a while before starting this medicine which is what raised my concern. I take the lexapro in the mornings, and find myself having major anxiety almost right after taking the pill. More so in the afternoons. So bad today that I had to leave school and missed a class. I am flying out of state in 4 days and am a nervous wreck about being able to contain myself on the plane. I get very nervous about feeling "trapped" or not being able to leave a situation to get a breath of fresh air. I am also prescribed .5mg xanax as needed, and sometimes it does not even help because of how out of control my anxiety has been. I am just worried that this feeling won't leave me alone and I want to be happy again. Any advice on how much longer this 'start up' anxiety will last? And suggestions on how to cope?
I have been on lexapro 10mg for 4 days now, and am wondering when the awful side effects will stop?
Question posted by kc108 on 9 Feb 2015
Last updated on 27 August 2018 by Karolina1
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Answers
, how did it work out please give me some hope
It can take up to 2-3 weeks, although the worst usually begins to subside around the 5th day. It's not uncommon and you should have been made aware of this by whoever prescribed it to you.
Thank you for your response. I was told I would have mild side effects in the beginning, however I did not think increased anxiety and panic would be part of that. I am just hopelessly waiting for the positive effects of the medicine to kick in. Since tomorrow is my 5th day, I look forward to feeling better. Thank you.
Okay, so take my advice and stop saying "hopelessly" waiting. Now you know there's a lead time, you do not need the added anxiety, okay?
You're right. That's just the way I've been feeling these past few days though. But I am going to turn it in to a positive. Thank you.
YEAH! Hey, keep in touch.
Related topics
lexapro, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, side effect, prescription, medication
Further information
- Lexapro uses and safety info
- Lexapro prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Lexapro (detailed)
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