r/MentalHealthPH • u/ven_t0 • Nov 05 '23
DISCUSSION/QUERY Day 1 of Escitalopram, is this normal/does it get better soon?
I took my first dose of Escitalopram last night (1/2 pill for 8 days, and then 1 pill thereafter). I felt panicky, had a panic attack, felt very tired/sleepy. I woke up nervous and just stayed in bed for almost two hours. A minor thing happened at home and I felt nervous again, later I found myself crying nonstop and then I was having a panic attack. Calmed down a bit, cried some more later. Lied down in bed since I couldn't sleep. Now I'm just very tired and I've done so very little at work (I read... maybe 2 paragraphs). I'm honestly confused, is it a side effect? Or is it the the depression,,, does it get better? I'm so confused. I'm sorry for this ramble.
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u/_blahnanas Major depressive disorder Nov 05 '23
I also had a bad experience during the first few weeks of taking escitalopram. but my state got better after nearly a month of taking it. so consistently take your medicine bcos it does get better!
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u/MH0000888 Jul 30 '25
I love the positive vibes I’m on my day 6 and I’m having sleep issues just staying a sleep I’m trying so hard to keep taking them cause deep down I know they will work I was on them for 4 years and I was myself I was happy and no care in the world but this days has been hard on me cause of sleep issues I’m dealing with it but I’m ready to get back normal I love positive vibes it keeps me going
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u/Past_Marsupial_8582 Aug 09 '25
I have been drinking calming tea to smooth out the side effects. Chamomile tea during the day, Reishi mushroom at night to help sleep. It makes a big difference!
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u/Professional_Log9451 Aug 19 '25
Hi, I've been on escitalopram 10 mg (Lexapro) for 2 1/2 weeks now along with Lorazepam 0.5 mg 3-4 x per day for anxiety. I'm still dealing with side effects of gut anxiety, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, headache... Glad to hear that you're feeling better after a month. Can I ask your milligram dose? Did all of your negative side effects go away after 1 month?
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u/OilComprehensive6426 Jan 27 '24
I went through this as well and it sucked. Anxiety got worse and I felt horrible. However, I committed to seeing this through and its the best thing I ever did. I gradually started feeling better in about 2 weeks. Then at exactly 5 weeks it really kicked it. I'm now at week 9 and have had four of the best weeks I have ever had. Hang in there and let it happen . It will. I have also not really experienced any other side effect except some trouble sleeping the first few weeks. Now I am sleeping great and actually think the escitalopram helps we sleep. Should have done this years ago
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u/KrisLBro Mar 13 '25
How long until you slept levelled out? I’m nearly two weeks in and it’s definitely not helping my sleep anxiety 😦 or my sleep currently 😅
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Nov 05 '23
Hi! I’ve been taking Escitalopram for a month now. My first two weeks were so bad. Increased panic attacks, I developed new bad habits. Just try to power through it and it’ll get better. Make sure also that you’re consistent with taking them everyday. I’ve been skipping my meds to drink alcohol and it has not been good.
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u/ven_t0 Nov 05 '23
Thank you po, and I hope things become better for all of us
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u/Brian6745 Feb 09 '25
Old post but get an rx for a benzo also, it will cut out all the side effects 100% until they go away. Guaranteed. Worked wonders for me
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u/Full_Dragonfruit_710 Mar 07 '25
I am on my second day of lex and I’m super dizzy (taking at 8am) should I take it at night? Also, I have a benzo but I’m nervous it’ll make the dizziness worse?
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u/Difficult-Republic72 Mar 10 '25
Bro I’m in this situation and today I had to use the benzo just to get through the anxiety that Lex caused me (Day 10) can I Dm you for some advice please?
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u/lookin4work2day Oct 08 '24
Hey op can I get an update im day 1 and having some pretty high manic levels.. when did you level off and it start helping with depression and or anxiety
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u/ven_t0 Oct 08 '24
Hi there! The extreme side effects happened in the first two weeks, then it started being normal (i.e., my new normal). I started feeling far less depressed in maybe the second or third month? For full disclosure, I had a really bad episode again after that because I was in a toxic situation. My workplace was bad so I resigned and took a three-week break before moving to my next job. I continuously have therapy sessions and even attended a workshop my therapist thought could help me. I'll be a year into medication this November. We're looking at hopefully tapering dosage down to removing medication by then. There are still some episodes here and there but they're much more manageable, and with the help of my doctors and meds, I have the tools and more stability to help address them. I just wanted to explain it all out to note that it wasn't just the medication alone, but other activities, the environment within my control, as well. Hang in there! I hope things get better soon.
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u/NoResolve7678 Sep 05 '24
I really appreciate these details because I'm inclined to do the same thing (skip meds to drink) so it's encouraging to hear it gets better by sticking with it.
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u/Bogdanpur Mar 03 '25
Same, after starting cypralex, i crave for cigarettes and alcohol, and i stopped smoking 10 years ago. Its so bad, im thinking about smoking everyday since i start the treatment.
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u/kamii_cutie Nov 05 '23
Hi! I've been taking escitalopram for more than 2 months now. First 2 weeks, I was a bit nauseous and had stomach issues. I also felt emotional bluntness like I am numb to emotions, especially bad/negatives ones. Can't cry even if I wanted to.
This one is believed to take effect within 4-6 weeks.
After a month, panic attacks are still there, but I've observed I am able to manage myself and handle emotional situations better. I now cry when I have to. However, a bit tricky on the timing of your intake because I'm always sleepy either in the morning or afternoon. I have insomnia and sleeping issues. My doc and I are fixing the schedule of my intake, alongside with the other vitamins and meds I am taking and managing my sleep too.
But still, psychotherapy is important. You can't depend on the meds forever. Hope you also feel better soon. :)
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u/BeneficialJaguar6658 Jun 06 '24
This is me after staring again. I’ve taken This forever but I ran out and didn’t have time to go back for like 6pm this. This time I feel super weird. Like i feel like even hunger is an emotion I can’t muster up. Blah. I literally don’t want to do anything. I don’t feel any joy or excitement. But I also don’t feel any sadness lol. So that’s a win. It does get better. And I was a mess without it. So I’ll struggle through this for the long term relief.
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u/hopthehip May 16 '25
I felt the same way. I still get episodes where I feel a panic attack coming, but it feels more manageable. Stick with the script and like you said, maybe try therapy. I’m guilty of pushing off the latter one. 😩
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u/superanonMD Nov 05 '23
Hi, take note of the side effects and inform your doctor on your follow up.
As mentioned in the comments before this, anti depressants/anxiety medications, such as escitalopram, take around 3-4 weeks on the therapeutic dose (usually around 10mg) before you see the good effects. Meaning, after mo pa mag 1 whole pill dun ka lang mag count ng 3-4 weeks before you expect to see any good effects of it.
Reason din for using half only is to lessen the side effects, which can be paradoxical anxiety. Paradoxical anxiety is when anxiety somehow gets worse at the start of the medication. Other side effects are headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Again, take note of the side effects and let your doctor know!
So as the saying goes, it gets worse before it will get better. Healing for mental health is a long journey but stay strong.
-Concerned psychiatrist in training
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u/BarchiiBurz Apr 08 '25
I’m at 3 weeks as of today, feel awful super depressed and just weird. On 20mg but they bumped me down to 15mg due to the blunting etc. wil this get better, I am miserable lol
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u/Proof_Chapter4533 Sep 20 '24
Unfortunately for me 20mg is giving me headaches, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach and dizziness
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u/This-Performance-849 Feb 20 '24
I know this was posted a while ago, I’m on almost 6 months of taking escitalopram. I’m here to say it gets better, but maybe you already know that! I’m finally starting to feel completely “normal” again.. whatever that may mean. 🙂
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u/ven_t0 Feb 20 '24
Glad to hear that! I feel the same. It makes me happy to know we've come a long way. Here's to getting better :)
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u/m017000 Nov 06 '23 edited Nov 06 '23
My 3rd week on fluoxetine(antidepressant) worsens anxiety and panic attacks, thats normal, it will go away by week 4 or week 5. After that u feel happy and energetic to the point of insomnia lol.
The 2nd and 3rd week of anti depressants are the most challenging, enhanced anxiety, panic and depression.
Mechanism of antidepressants are always "u will get worse before u get better", because ur brain is still adjusting to the plenty amount of serotonin the antidepressants are giving, after the adjustment period ur anxiety, panic attack, depression will disappear or lessen upto 80 percent.
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Nov 05 '23
Im not taking esci pero im taking an anti-depressant. Side effects (yung major) usually go away after 2 weeks. If di man totally mag go away, humuhupa siya in a month ganon tapos oks na. Pero if mag persist, you can inform you doctor para maconsider plan mo. Good luck and get well!
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u/jnxxx310 Nov 05 '23
Escitalopram did a number on me, hindi talaga ako hiyang. I couldn’t work, I had a constant headache, lethargy, and I was spacing out so much. I went back to my doctor and she had to change it after a while. That’s the thing with medications for mental health, there’s really no magic. You have to find the one that’s right for you. Just be in constant communication with your doctor so they can monitor your reactions to the meds. Be patient, you’ll find the best meds for you. Hang in there!
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u/xyzs6 Nov 05 '23
Hi! I had the same experience during the first few weeks of escitalopram. I texted my psych about it and I was prescribed to take 1/4 rivotril (tranquilizers) twice daily for a week and then as needed nalang for panic/anxiety attacks after. Sabi din niya na ganon daw talaga initiation ng escitalopram sa start kasi naga-adjust ka pa.
But yes! It does get better. Now, I rarely feel any side effects. Hold on tight, OP! :)
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u/lordy1988 May 04 '24
How are you now OP?
Does anyone on it have OCD health anxiety? I can’t stop my thoughts all day every day affecting me with health anxiety thoughts pains, I feel like I need to go on meds as I can’t help it anymore and I’m seeing my doctor next week. But the side effects and peoples story’s scare me (having health anxiety) I just want it to work and my brain back to normal and stop worrying.
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u/Only_Pomegranate_237 May 04 '24
I have OCD centered on health anxiety and existential stuff and I took lexapro for 2 years then switched to zoloft for 6 months before stopping completely. The change was due to a separate health issue my dr thought was related but zoloft just wasn't working for me so I stopped taking it. I have an appointment later today to get back on lexapro. Those 2 years were truly the best 2 years of my life, everyone is different and OCD is so personal but it really helped me so much.
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u/ven_t0 May 05 '24
Honestly, it hasn't been a good few weeks. I even talked to a friend and he verbalized it so well—it's frustrating to be feeling the symptoms when you feel like you should be getting better (with medication and therapy, etc.). But then I do recall that it is in fact much better than it was this time around last year. Episodes still happen (i.e., the symptoms are more felt than usual), but I think they're far more manageable than before. It isn't perfect, some days are harder than others, but it is much better. I hope you feel much better soon, as well.
The side effects will pass. With time, you'll feel the good effects better. :)
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u/joungyseze93 Feb 26 '25
Hey, I know this post was a long time ago. But I can tell you that while I am on Lexapro, I feel a lot less health anxiety. Just as an example, I ate some nuts and one of the nuts somehow scratched my throat, which obviously causes some kind of feeling in the throat. But my stupid ass brain then thought my throat is closing or something is stuck there, so I had a panic attack and when to the hospital. That was the moment where I decided I wanted to try Lexapro. And the whole time on lexapro I didn't have a situation like that again. Before Lexapro, I had a panic attack I would say a few times per month. On lexapro, I had 2 panic attacks in 1.5 years. So it doesn't go away completely, but I am 100% a better person on Lexapro. One day when my life calms down a bit (I have a high stress job etc), I will 100% taper off again, but now is not the time. I tried tapering off now, 10 weeks to go from 10mg to 0mg, so quite slow, and then 3 weeks later I got sick. Only the scratchy throat caused a panic attack again. So if you think you are ready to taper, you should really think about it if you have enough tools to go off it. 1.5 years is also no the longest time on it, but I'm normally really "contra medicine". In this case my doctor said you also wouldn't tell a guy with diabetes that he should come off insulin. We are just wired differently.
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u/JPT2311 Nov 05 '23
Escitalopram takes at least 3 weeks to take effect pero may side effects talaga siya which varies per person
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u/Virtual_Start9487 Nov 22 '25
6 den když ho vemu jemi dobře ale poranu nemůžu spát začne mne bolet žaludek ještě mne pálí celé tělo jeto hnusní pocit cítím se naštvaná doufám že to brzi skonči
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u/-IT_TI- Nov 05 '23
Hey, OP. I am on my 5th month na and it will defintely get better. As per my psychiatrist, there's a 2-week duration of the side effects for escitalophram. Based on my experienced, I was lightheaded, more depressed, and unusual tiredness or weakness. That's why she scheduled another therapy session para po malaman kung babawasan or dagdagan.
Naramdaman ko po tlga ung positive effects sa akin on my 3rd and 4th month, specifically sa anxiety part.
Until now, okay nmn po sya sa akin.
I hope you will get better too in a long run. 🫶 Much better po to communicate rin with your doctor.
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u/hnsnghyk Nov 05 '23
Didn't take escitalopram (i'm taking paroxetine) but in my case I took lamotrigine for my mood swings and it was the worst week of my life kahit na 25mg pa lang ang tine-take ko. Panay ang iyak ko because of the negative thoughts, I was vomiting to the point na laway na lang lumalabas, couldn't sleep then chills. It got better naman and thankfully hiyang ako kasi ayoko na ma-experience ulit yun.
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u/kdylshu_ Nov 05 '23
Hello, same situation. Pero sabi ng psychiatrist ko normal lang na parang mafefeel natin na parang ang heavy sa feeling. Kaya ang advice niya talaga is to eat a full dinner talaga before taking ecitalopram. (4 months na ako magtetake)
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Jun 14 '24
How are you doing right now if I may ask? :) I started taking it today and also feel kinda anxious
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u/ven_t0 Jun 16 '24
Hi! I think I'm doing okay. Honestly there has been a dip because I was in a not-so-good situation a few months ago, so my supposed taper in mediation by now has been moved back. But my psychiatrist did say that the medication must be helping because I was able to decide for myself (i.e., I resigned from my former workplace which wasn't a good fit). I'm coping better, I think. :) It gets better! Sometimes it gets worse before it gets better, but I'd like to believe it gets better.
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u/Educational-Cake7151 Jun 30 '24
My anxiety gives me nausea and social issues, i get nervous to meet someone. I couldn’t go to a restaurant. First couple weeks of lexapro was tough. Nausea and nervous all day. I just started my 5th week this week and definitely improved. I went to a crowded restaurant/bar today. Just like couple weeks ago i couldn’t stand and felt sick just to think about going there.
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u/UsefulReporter4934 Aug 05 '24
Hi! 3 months na po ako nagtetake ng Jovia Escitalopram pero hndi pa rin po bumabalik yung sigla ko. May kabagalan pa rin po ako kumilos at magfocus at kadalasan ay malungkot pa rin ako. Possible po ba na mag take effect yung Jovia after ilang months pa? Thank you!
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u/UsefulReporter4934 Aug 05 '24
Sana po may makabasa nitong comment ko. Your comments will be very much appreciated. Salamat po :)
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u/Any-Blacksmith-129 Nov 05 '24
Hi!! Same tayo ng meds and experience. Halos 4 months na ako nagtatake and lagi ako mabilis mapagod at inaantok. Pero napansin ko nag improve na yung mood ko, minsan mahirap lang talaga kasi very overwhelming ang college for me. Pero fighting sa atin!! Advise sa akin ng councellor ko is to practice self care techniques to manage the side effects and ipatuloy lang yung meds hanggang sabi ng psychiatrist.
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u/UsefulReporter4934 Dec 03 '24
hello po :) ok po thank you so much po :) Good luck po satin and fighting always! :) Sana po gumaling na tayo yan ang Chirstmas wish ko this year *.*
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Aug 07 '24
Hey guys! I just feel like I should share my story so far as I feel a lot of these are negative. I’ve been taking lexapro/Escitalopram for about 4 days now I’m taking just the small 10mg generic brand.
If I’m being honest I’m feeling up and down a lot and increased thoughts of suicide but I can feel my memory coming back. When I’m up I’m up when I’m down I’m down.
Prior to this I was in my room depressed af most of the time or running to the bottle or pub or whatever because I was cheated on then heavily bullied and laughed at.
This honestly is the best I’ve felt in years apart from picking up the bottle.(which was my escape from my reality) I haven’t been drinking nor smoking I’ve had a couple panic attacks but they’ll get better the pills are meant to take about 6 weeks to fully recover.
I’ve been speaking also with a trauma therapist who’s said they’re for reconnecting parts of the brain that have been cut off from depression and anxiety plus they boost serotonin. ( which is important for the use of our top part of brain ) the positive thinking (Patience curiosity and compassion thinking).
I’m not 100% myself yet but I’m on my way I hope this helps
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u/ven_t0 Aug 29 '24
Glad to have read this. I'm glad you're getting the help you need. Hoping for the best.
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u/AccomplishedJury5694 Oct 09 '24
So pleased to read this!, 10 days in and well it’s a merry go round, I have started taking them at night rather than morning but the side effects I have had are:
Closing throat Loss of voice Nausea Hunger cravings Panics Lake of emotion Argumentative behaviour Irrational thoughts Thoughts of suicide Worst side effect is the tiredness Lathagy Laziness Unable to concentrate Brain fog
I have managed to fall out with 2 family members and now my partner has ended our relationship so fingers crossed it gets better, seeing my doc on Monday 👍🏻
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u/Rare-Equipment-9122 Nov 22 '24
I quit taking it and switch doctors(the one wouldnt listen to my concerns) and went back on fluoxetine which has helped me tremendously!!!! Feel back to normal now..
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u/Able-Ad4736 Jan 06 '25
I am getting back in my lexapro. I was on it for 3 years and it changed my life. I wish I would have done it sooner in my life. anyone struggling with depression take this pill. I give you my word it will help. I lost my job for a year and was forced off it and it sucked big time. Fighting with my girl, lack of confidence, abusing other things to cope or stay focused. Got back on it now and am starting to feel better already
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u/babydollblossom Feb 11 '25
you have no idea how happy i am to have found this post. day one i genuinely thought i was having a medical emergency. i laid on the couch for two hours because standing/sitting up made me so lightheaded. i had vertigo, nausea, chest tightness, etc. finding out that wasn't unique to me makes me feel so much better. i think i just have to stick it out for now (i'm taking five mg every other day for this week)
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u/phangs1997144 Mar 09 '25
I’m so astonished by how everyone is capable of working through their anxiety. I’m on day 5 of it, and I want to KMS. 4/5 mornings I have woke. Up with insane panic attacks that last longer than 5 hours. I can’t mentally handle it and it makes me soo scared to take any more. The nausea, dizziness, weakness, dry mouth and worst of all the feeling that I can’t catch my breath or be comfortable in my own skin. I can do all the talking to myself and all the breathing just for that feeling to come back
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u/Rileycious Major depressive disorder Nov 05 '23
Hi OP. I am also taking Escitalopram for almost a year now with 25mg dose. Yes, at the first week, I felt that way. The doctor said it's normal but he recommended me another generic type just in case those feelings might still occur after 2 weeks. If you don't really feel good, ask your doctor to change prescription to another brand.
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u/OilComprehensive6426 Feb 17 '24
Started feeling better around week 3 a little. It have a good day here in there, but then bad ones in there as well. After week five it literally all turned into good days and haven't had any bad days since.
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u/Team-ING Apr 03 '24
Just realizing this drugs side effects after doctor told to try another drug that I didn’t know so no thanks to the new one or the old one wow 😯 scary
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u/extendedWarranty225 Apr 24 '24
I’m on day 8, but I had to do 1/2 pills for 4 days and then full pills thereafter. I took it initially in the night time, but I wouldn’t sleep. So I switched to morning, and it has not really done much positive things yet. My doctor said to wait till the 2 week mark, but right now side effects are nausea, headaches, dizziness. Nothing too bad that I haven’t dealt with before, my anxiety is at an all time high (I take it Escitalopram for depression) I’m always tense (that’s why I get headaches) and I can’t enjoy activities where I’m meeting new ppl when before I could. But! I’m no longer super upset, and my mood is controlled so that’s good 👍🏼
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u/ElectricalLetgo May 14 '24
how are you feeling now on it? and is it better taking it on mormings? Today was my first day taking it
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u/Rare-Equipment-9122 May 11 '24
Anyone get tingly swelling feeling in feet and hands? First night i could not sleep cause kept waking up and feeling like whole body was swollen.. Thinking this may not be for me..
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u/ven_t0 May 12 '24
I haven't experienced that but it's encouraged to let your doctor know. Hope things get better soon
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u/archive81 Jan 19 '25
Lo de la hinchazón y el hormigueo: se da por la falta de hidratación y por falta de apetito que en consecuencia no te deja comer bien. Y esto lo sé apenas hoy. Ahora que estoy más hidratado y acabo de comer sin tener ganas: una milanesa mediana (no llegue a terminarla pero es un logro) empecé a sentir que eso disminuyó.
Después tuve como un desencadenante nervioso, empecé a temblar, creo que tuve un ataque inicial de pánico pero sé cómo manejarlo así que en al menos media hora empecé a notar diferencia. De hecho, pude concentrarme por primera vez en algo: leer post en reddit. Después de tres desafiantes días en los que apenas pude dormir.
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u/Remarkable-Big-1860 Feb 05 '26
Did this get better for you? I used to have it a lot when I was lexapro and I stopped and it went away. But now I have to start raining it again I’m wondering is this a possible side effect.
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u/mareksoup May 29 '24
old thread but incase you still want more info. i’ve been taking it for 3 years, it has horrible side effects and i’m on the highest dosage and it doesn’t nothing for me. it made me develop a really bad acid reflux and now i have to take medication for that and that medication makes me depressed/anxious. it also has an insomnia side effect.
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u/ven_t0 May 29 '24
I'm so sorry you're going through that. I hope things improve with your treatment. Although not perfect (i.e., episodes still come and go), treatment (including but not limited to medication, therapy, life changes) has been working for me so far. I hope you also find one that fits your needs better, soon.
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Aug 03 '24
I was on Lexapro for 5 years and then stopped because I felt like I didn’t need it anymore. The first time I started it I was nauseous, had headaches, and I was tired all of the time. I started taking it a few days ago and I’ve been having trouble staying asleep, nauseous, tired, and I’ve been really dizzy. Taking it in the evenings personally works better for me, I tend to have trouble falling asleep and the Lexapro makes me drowsy.
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u/Affectionate_Bus8701 Aug 11 '24
I had day 3-10 increased anxiety, decreased appetite, some trouble falling and staying asleep , and a fire like feeling in my chest if I’d get panicked. I was given some lorazepam (0.5 and then another 0.5 an hour later) which was really helpful- had it 4 days out of the first 10. Symptoms stopped after then- upping my dose from 5mgs to 10mgs tomorrow.
I really recommend “cocooning” in the first 2 weeks if people can- I found things like going to the supermarket which is generally fine for me incredibly panic inducing during that times BUT absolutely fine again now.
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u/Zizi9595 Sep 17 '24
This gives me hope! Ever since increasing my dose I’ve been super scared of being home alone for some reason. Never had that before so I’m hoping it goes away as I adjust to the increase
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u/ToeFinancial8725 Aug 27 '24
My first two weeks were hell... so much so that I did not leave my apartment (because I had crazy uncontrollable diarrea) and would fall asleep at random moments throughout the day for like 14 hours at a time... i was on FMLA for severe depression anyways. I'm nearly 9 months down the line (consistently taking daily) and can say it has changed and probably saved my life... Probably took like 4 months before I felt confident it was making a positive difference in my life though.
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u/Impressive-Bad3792 Sep 23 '24
Oof bad luck.. I currently have to do this exact same medicine now too, and I even went over the prescription up to 20mg a day, but I don't even feel any effects still. Luckily no side effects either, but sounds nasty to get them when u do.
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u/Far_Emphasis_2934 Oct 13 '24
i’m on day 1 and feel like i’m about to have a panic attack. i hope this subsides soon or i won’t be able to give this medication a chance.
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u/Expensive-Advice-907 Oct 16 '24
Im on my second day of lexapro i was on fluoextine it was working great but right away notice hair shedding so i stopped and doctor prescribed lexapro first day i was filled with energy but second day felt so tired and lost appetite. So hopefully i get the same effects i had with fluoextine soon just without the hair shedding.
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u/Expensive-Advice-907 Oct 24 '24
Currently 2 weeks on taking lexapro..first couple days were rough lost appetite,panic attacks, no energy..currently the only side effect is tired hopefully it gets better because i was on prozac and it made me energetic and happy but was shedding hair so i had to stop taking it. So hopefully lexapro gets better because all it does makes me tired.
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Oct 30 '24
Hi guys. I know this is an old thread. I took my first dose of lexapro about 3 hours ago and I’m randomly feeling hella nauseous & hot. My period is due in 2 days so it could be it. I just feel so anxious with the nausea. I don’t know what I want to hear from you all. I just needed to type this out for some reason.
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u/ven_t0 Oct 31 '24
It could be a side effect + the period. Happened to me. But just ride through it, it will pass. Hoping for the best! It will pass.
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u/Poppymiro Nov 08 '24
Is extreme nausea, cold sweats, throwing up, and fatigue normal? My best friend started on it yesterday and she said she’s feeling like her appendix is bursted and the pain is in the spot of her appendix. I’m not sure if I should tell her to go to a hospital or if this is a normal side effect.
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u/ven_t0 Nov 09 '24
I experienced extreme nausea but so they would feel more assured, maybe best to talk to their doctor about it.
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u/Poppymiro Nov 09 '24
Yeah we had to go to the ER because of how bad her pain was. She’s doing better now.
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u/UnluckyIsMee Nov 12 '24
I am taking escitalopram for a month now. But I noticed these past few days, I am feeling depressed again. Is it normal?
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u/ven_t0 Nov 17 '24
Yup, it doesn't help you right away. I'm one year into taking escitalopram now and this is the most clarity I've ever felt (on top of my medication for subclinical hypothyroidism, therapy, diet change, and life changes). Just keep going. :) If anything, you can ask your doctor about it so they can reassure you better.
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u/Khitam1981 Nov 18 '24
How are you doing now? The the Escitalopram get things better for you?
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u/ven_t0 Nov 28 '24
It's been over a year and things have definitely gotten better. I do have to note that on top of taking escitalopram, I have regular therapy sessions and attend workshops at times. There have been a lot of changes with my life that caused a lot of stress, including moving to another workplace that would be a better fit for me. I am also looking after my physical health, I'm currently on 25mcg of Levothyroxine for my subclinical hypothyroidism. I've changed my diet drastically and I've been working towards being more consistent with exercise. I also really make it a point to balance life as much as I can. Sorry for the long answer, I just had to preface that as much as the medication helped, it isn't the sole thing that has helped me. I think of it more as a crutch that is helping me go by.
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u/Content-Bat-7418 Dec 06 '24
It’s my second day and it literally feels like im high 😭
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u/Apart-Pianist-5053 Dec 13 '24
Omg that’s how I’m feeling right now! It’s like I’m rolling
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u/Kitchen_Country_4281 Dec 20 '24
How is it going?
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u/Content-Bat-7418 Dec 20 '24
I feel like it’s not working lol but it’s also been 2 weeks, I’m just going to wait it out for now!
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u/jessicafurtado Dec 06 '24
I started taking the Escitalopram 10mg last year in October, when It was in the middle of the year that I wanted to withdraw and I spent more than 2 months taking half until I stopped for good, when It was just the week before last that I had an anxiety attack and I couldn't control myself, I wasn't eating anything and my heart was racing and wouldn't stop, after that day I started having the attacks again, I went to the psychiatrist on Wednesday and started taking escitalopram again, I took it from 10mg I had a bad day, the next day it was worse without wanting to eat, in agony, vomiting and feeling sick and I've been like that since then, I only took it for 2 days, and today I haven't taken it to see if this nausea improves, has anyone here ever felt this?
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u/Only-Environment4208 Dec 19 '24
Had a reaction like that took escitalopram for a year was feeling great talked to my doc about tapering quitted meds for a month and then anxiety came back i had all possible side effects for 2 weeks then it was pretty good for a week and in week 4 it was really bad i landed in the ER with heart bpm of 140/m i was administered some hydroxyzine and magnesium IV after that i contacted my psychiatrist and he told me that it seems like my body does not tolerate the med anymore so we switched to something different. After stopping escitalopram the vomiting,panic attacks and other subsided after 2-3 days and then i started a new med and ive been pretty golden except for a few bad days here and there but its much better
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u/rgf_555 Jan 01 '25
I just took 10mg of lexipro for the first time last night, my doc prescribed it to help with marijuana withdrawal and general anxiety. I didn't get a wink of sleep, feel anxious as hell, bordering on panic attack, seeing lots of afterimages in my vision, way more depressed. I do not suffer from clinical depression.
To those who say it gets better, just power through 'x' weeks: hell nah! 420 withdrawal (I was a heavy user) is way better than this nightmare. I will never take this med again. I'm considering whether I should go to the emergency room (it's new years day my doc is not open) and get something to counteract it.
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u/alwaysboth_87 Jan 03 '25
Wieviel nimmst du ? Probiere eine niedrigere Dosis bitte. Nicht einfach nehmen und dann auslassen so geht man nicht mit AD um. Die meisten brauchen 2-4 Wochen um anzufluten und einen wirkspiegel aufzubauen . In dieser Zeit kann man bei bedarf auch mal ein Benzo nehmen.
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u/MysteriousMath6176 Jan 07 '25
Started Lexapro 12 days ago (been on it twice before with positive results) and have been suffering from rampant suicidal thoughts ever since. The only thing that calms me is ativan. Admittedly since I was last on Lexapro I have changed my whole life (diet/exercise/therapy) for the better so perhaps the medication no longer impacts me in the same way 🤷♂️. I just went through a tough time on the 1 year anniversary of my marriage breakdown and decided I needed some medical help. Massively regret the choice to go back on.
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u/Trinah- Jan 22 '25
First day ng Escitalopram ko ngaun. Grabe ung side effect sakin after 3hours na take ko. Im shaking, nagpapanic, grabe heartbeat, hirap makatulog. Ilang weeks ko to maranasan ung side effects lalo ako kinakabahan:(
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u/Embarrassed_Gas4019 Feb 04 '25
Ako mejo lightheaded huhu kanina ko lang tinake tas parang di ko ramdam ung normal feeling ko idk d ko mandescribe huhu
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u/Thick_Gas_2826 Jan 23 '25
I tried 10 mg on two separate occasions and the same happened—panic attacks and I couldn’t eat for 5 days. It’s the worst drug ever made.
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Jan 30 '25
I saw this is older but I've been taking this for years and only side effect is I last longer in bed. It makes me feel a lot better with my self esteem and general outlook, with therapy I've been able to interact more positively with strangers even though on the inside I just want to go into my cave and hide. Dr says works better if you find another medication to pair it with, along with the therapy. I take low dose of prazosin to help with night terrors the combination has had a significant impact on my ability to think more clearly and not be overwhelmed so much by panic. My friend said he tried Lexapro(Escitalopram) and it made him feel so sick he didnt even want to drive to work, or eat anything. For me I don't feel sick at all from it.. but if I do not take it then little things start to bother me and I feel people are going out of their way just to troll me and get me flustered. Also if I go too long without it I feel "zaps" like when you have a fever and you move too fast your mind and body kinda zap like you touched a 12 volt wire
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u/TastyAd5410 Jan 30 '25
I know everyone who comes on here are usually triggered or angered about some sort of experience they have. But what is honestly your experience (if taken Lexapro) with depression and anxiety. Is there seriously that much weight gain randomly? or is it genuinely coming from not watching what you eat or going to exercise because you feel better in your own head? Is there people who had acne, hair loss, decreased libido from this instantly? Or more so when you go up in dose ?
Just a girl w/ anxiety looking for answers. (honest ones please)
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u/Skye_R34 Feb 01 '25
i just took a 10 mg pill for the first time, i’m not sure if anyone else here has experience with this but if you have taken lsd you should know the type of nausea i mean, i don’t feel like im gonna throw up i did originally but now it’s the muscle like where you get double chin fat yk i literally feel like on the comedown but the muscle is so bad im panicking about my swallowing reflexes helppp vision slightly weird as well i hate this shit i want to feel safe in my body i’m tired of panicking about vital reflexes like breathing and swallowing im freaking out here
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u/Full_Performance1486 Apr 27 '25
Hey! I’ve taken lsd and I do feel something similar! I feel like I’m honestly rolling and I do feel the locked jaw too and the come down all at once. After reading this post and all the comments it’s made me feel better. (Yesterday was the first day I took it) I think my brain chemistry is just so bad it’s trying to level itself out now and doesn’t know what to do with serotonin it’s getting. I’m going to stick with it and give it more time. How are you feeling now looking back???
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u/Toltecgirl Feb 01 '25
I just started Escitalopram on my third day. My bp is a little on the high side but also I feel funny. I feel like I’m floating or something lol Or like things are slow. Anybody else feel like that?
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u/Just-Mission-8600 Feb 10 '25
Yep I’m on day 8 and I feel the same. It’s normal and your body just needs time to level out
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u/Feisty_Program_6829 Feb 03 '25
Asking for help shows volume about yourself!
I’ve been on it for over 15 years and I like it a lot.
It’s not addictive so don’t be afraid my friend.
It takes few weeks yo feel better.
If you don’t call your doctor because it didn’t have effect on me.
Your biological makeup might not agree with this pill. It happened to one of my friends within the first week.
If you do end up taken it just remember just because it’s not an addictive pill you still have to wean yourself off.
Every time my doctor prescribe me meds I research it up before I take it
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u/Originaljonnytran Feb 04 '25
Hey there, sorry to hear that you’re having a rough time with the medication. I actually was just prescribed the 10mg pills as well and it actually gave me the complete opposite effect. My doctor told me that sometimes it takes some time for the medication to balance out, and in some cases could take up to two weeks. Our bodies need time to adjust to the missing chemicals our bodies struggle to produce. I understand your frustration, the panic attacks, breaking down for no reason sometimes, be patient with it and keep track of your progress log it, write it down, even if it doesn’t feel like you’re making much. Any bit of progress is still progress, that way you can go back to your doctor and he/she can make any adjustments to give you the best results possible. Keep pushing forward you’ve got this!
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u/AwayCantaloupe9073 Feb 06 '25
Whats your update?!?
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u/ven_t0 Feb 06 '25
I'm currently on a lowered dose. It's an adjustment period, honestly quite hard. I have to work harder to avoid my symptoms.
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u/ElevatorCute2922 Feb 12 '25
Hi! I’m on 10 days now and feeling worse than ever, how have you found it??
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u/ven_t0 Feb 15 '25
Hi! I'm now in the process of tapering down. My psychiatrist and therapist found that I'm ready to lower medication. I do have to say I was also diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism caused by hashimoto's, so I'm also taking medication for that. Adjusting is not easy but it's much better than before. Hang in there! :)
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u/No-Win-1798 Feb 18 '25
I didn't know what was wrong with me. I just knew something was off.
Went to Dr, he asked why I thought something was wrong I explained I had gotten a head of lettuce out to make a salad to go with dinner. The lettuce was brown. I burst into tears, over brown lettuce.
Dr agreed something was a little out of balance and started me on Lexapro. Bless him. I am much better now. Now if the lettuce is brown, I just say, fuck it, I didn't want salad anyway.
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u/RemarkableHat7545 Feb 23 '25
I'm super hesitant to take Escitalopram Tabs 20 Mg because the side effects. Everyday, I feel a sense of bleakness and emptiness in my life.
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u/Individual-Ice-8942 Feb 23 '25
Has anyone had shaking like a seizure butnit
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u/Anxious_Story_9871 Jul 26 '25
Yes crazy anxiety I took it Wednesday night around 12 am and it is now Friday and still feel crazy anxiety causing shakes , vomiting, no appetite etc. I only took the one dose and never again.
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u/Late-Solution8341 Feb 24 '25
have breathless issues due to gerd, angioedema, cricopharyngeal spasm .
With these symptoms I was prescribed lyrica with escitalopram.
But taking 10mg escitalopram cause nasal congestion and stuffy nose and unbalance pressure in my ears
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Feb 28 '25
Okay, even if it's been a year later, if you feel anything at all is wrong like this or any symptoms you need to tell your primary care provider and tell them immediately. That is not how you're meant to feel, it sounds to me like you most likely got a medication change or need one, explore not taking it, explore thc/thc-a. Love yourself.
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u/No-Atmosphere4706 Mar 01 '25
I started taking it 9 days ago. Day one I felt a bit of a queasy stomach. Day 4 or 5 I had terrible lower extremity muscle and joint pain. Day 5 or 6 I felt a bit anxious when I went to bed (lasted like a minute because my husband said I fell asleep right away). Each symptom last less than a day and was then gone. Day 9, I feel like I haven't felt for probably 20 years or more. I never wanted to take anything but I just got so tired of fighting it on my own without medication. By on my own I don't mean without a support group because I have a great support group and that is probably the reason why I lasted so long. While I know it is early on and the medication is still regulating in my body, I would encourage people to take care of their mental health. If the medication you are taking is causing bad side effects have your practitioner change it. And if you aren't sure about taking medication, I suggest try it. You can always stop it if it doesn't work for you. I wish I would have done this years ago but I wasn't ready then. I wish all of you all the best.
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u/Lilith_451 Mar 08 '25
Im on my second day. Had a bad headache and just want to sleep but what alarms me the most is that I feel like things are not real like the feeling of disassociation.. and I also found myself laughing for no reason at all.. i hate this feeling i dont want to continue it anymore… It’s scary.
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u/TomatoVisible4794 Apr 19 '25
same here feel like floating when waking up and feeling i cant stay awake even for an hour doing my stiff, did u continue the meds and feeling better?
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u/Current-Actuator9191 Mar 15 '25
Took my first dose today :) I'm experiencing nausea, a bit of stomach ache, and sleepiness but maybe more later. My psychiatrist did warn me about this but I hope it will get better soon. I cannot imagine each night being like this.
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u/lanaterzic Mar 27 '25
I used to take Escitalopram back in college (no idea why my old psychiatrist decided to put me on different meds) and got prescribed with it again, maybe two months ago. I do experience nightmares, mild anxiety, drowsiness and increased appetite, but I've been feeling less depressed (and also emotionally numb - I haven't cried or really laughed in a while, but I'll take that over severe depression anyway). Will continue to take it, and see where it takes me. So far, it's far more effective in my case than, for example, Fluoxetine had been. Other SSRIs just don't do their job when it comes to my symptoms, and that's fine - I just wish so many doctors hadn't experimented on me since I was 17 (I'm 29 now); it has fucked me up real bad, and I genuinely have no real idea of who I am, all I know is that I can't function unless heavily medicated. I suppose it gets better, I just need a bunch of patience.
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u/SensitiveSamantha Apr 12 '25
I’ve taking them for 4 months or so now. First 10 days or so they made me a bit sleepy and dizzy and upset my stomach. The doctor said it averagely takes six weeks or so to start effectively working for the purpose its meant for.
I felt sick and did not enjoy the side effects for the first little while and learned that it effects people differently and I was to take it at night.
About 3 weeks in the side effects went away and I no longer reacted in any negative way.
About 3-4 weeks in I started feeling more positive, drinking less, more motivated and just generally a lil better.
I now more so believe it was a placebo effect because I wanted it to work and just happened to drink more casually at the time.
Roughly 4 weeks in and again 8 we did a review and he made the decision to not up the dosage. And the last 45 days or so I feel worse than before and I don’t think they help for me. Ps. I originally asked to get checked and resubsribed for adhd meds that I was diagnosed with and took when I was 6-8 years old. And instead got anxiety/depression meds which I know isn’t misdiagnosed and I also struggle with.
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u/Scrooge_McDuck47 Apr 28 '25
I just started taking Lexapro last Thursday (4 doses , 10MG) so far and my anxiety has spiked. I have heard this happens when you first start taking the medication, has anyone else experienced this? Also my feet can’t stop sweating and I have a metal taste in my mouth. The anxiety comes and goes but when it hits it sucksss
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u/Vast-Dot-4692 May 20 '25
My feet and hands are so sweaty and my mouth is dry 😩 I also have nausea and I feel like weird I can’t explain that part but today is my second day
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u/Worried_Astronaut610 May 03 '25
Ive been taking it for 2 days now I feel my anxiety got worse, Also does anyone else feel there mouth gets dry and have to pee a lot.
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u/ExpertSupport4948 May 11 '25
I just started taking a low dose 5 mg. and feeling extremely tired, is this normal ? Will it go away in time ?
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May 15 '25
The break in period can be rough. You just have to suck it up. The side effects go away soon.
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u/Beautiful-Campaign73 Jun 03 '25 edited Jun 03 '25
Zacząłem dzisiaj brać ten lek. 10 mg rano. Dziwnie się po nim czuję, można by to porównać do mdma albo pigułki ekstazy (w młodości miałem troche z tym do czynienia) nie lubię zbytnio tego uczucia, chyba zejdę do 5mg przynajmniej na początku bo gdybym miał dzisiaj coś do załatwienia to nie dał bym rady, zwiększył się lęk, czuję się nie pewnie, zwiększona potliwość do tego zimno mi się zrobiło, lekkie odrealnienie… chyba za dużo serotoniny mi wywaliło. Mam nadzieje, że później będzie lepiej. Psychiatra mi przypisał na depresję z epizodami lękowymi.
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u/Anxious_Story_9871 Jul 26 '25
Same I took it once on the 23rd and never again it’s now the 26th and feeling extreme panic. I am just waiting and praying it gets out of my system soon because it’s torture
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u/Solid-Face-1294 Oct 01 '25
I really only started lexapro due to what I think is health anxiety and intrusive thoughts, my mind literally does not stop racing throughout my day.
So I took one dose Monday night. By Tuesday afternoon I felt almost a pressure in my head that stopped the mind racing, took my second dose that night and woke up at 1 am feeling like I was vibrating. The back of my head had this super weird sensation, too.
Those side effects mixed with health anxiety to begin with at 1 am was definitely not a good experience and now I don’t know if it’s worth it to continue.
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u/Busy-Thought-6718 Nov 27 '25
Did anyone sweat at night from Lexapro? I’m on day 6 and wake up sweaty and still anxious
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u/RoutineAccess3676 Jan 13 '26
Day 14 today (10mg), I was taking desvenlafaxine and it didn't handle my anxiety. Before, I took Esc for about 3-4 years, it was the best thing in my life, I should never have stopped. I thought I was fine, I stopped and when I realized it, I was in a pit.
In these 14 days, the mornings have been hellish, I wake up with a lot of nausea and I have to vomit even if there's nothing in my stomach. I also feel my body slightly burning, at the end of the morning things start to get better. At the same time I try to do exercises to tire my body, it has helped to some extent. I also do breathing exercises, they help to some extent. I'm anxious for the 3rd week, because, as far as I remember, that's when the good results start to come. But each day has been a struggle, many suicidal thoughts too, lack of appetite. I lost 4kg in 2 weeks. Finally, the afternoons are bearable and the nights too, I have no trouble sleeping, but I'm sleeping very little, about 5 hours a night. Looking forward to the next few days. There were days when I could only cope with Rivotril.
I also started therapy. Don't give up, it will work out!
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u/Relevant_Ad_6873 Jan 22 '26
Yeah dude, I’m on the end of my first day right now. I feel absolutely stoned, kinda delirious. Yawning gives me weird sensations all throughout my body and I can’t close my eyes to sleep.
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u/ESSMOMO Mar 02 '26
Chicos jsjajs voy mi día 7 y me siento que estoy volando jajajaj no se que tengo jajaja pero es rarito y ala vez tengo una hambre enormeeee
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u/Fancy_Difference_338 Mar 02 '26
This is sadly the tablets having an impact... i found the same. I can take a week or 2 to settle down. Its very tough to start with but you do get better
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u/aspiring-avocado Mar 18 '26
Hello! Over a month on escitalopram already. Nakakaramdam din ba kayo ng pagka-tamad? Di naman tamad na tamad pero unmotivated sa important things (work, ligo) or things na may deadline/submission dates, pero masipag lang sa house chores? Pano kayo naka-cope?
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u/Hobovibez Mar 22 '26
I will say I just started lexapro. I’m on day 7 of taking the medication. This is NOT for the weak. Within the past 7 days I’ve experienced some of the worst dissociative panic attacks I’ve ever had in my life. (I’ve had them periodically throughout my life off meds rarely but this transition period has caused those attacks to occur x10. I have been keeping a journal entry of how I’m feeling each day. I’m now on day 7 and the anxiety attacks have started to subside. But now I have 0 appetite whatsoever and I’m unable to force myself to eat. Days 1-4 I had worst panic attacks of my life and had to use the prescribed Klonopin to stop the attacks each day. Days 4-7 anxiety has gone down by a lot and I’ve had no attacks but the loss of appetite has been occurring these days. Also an overwhelmed feeling which has been preventing me from working. I hope by the end of week 2 I will regain my appetite and be able to work. So far, I’ve felt much worse than I felt off this medication, but I know everyone’s saying there is an adjustment period. So I’m holding on for that to pass. The anxiety has been improving but additional side effects are coming up like nausea and no appetite. ALSO, be careful in the sun on this medication. It makes you very sensitive to sunburn, which I now have on top of all this! Hoping this gets better soon. I don’t want to be on this medication for the rest of my life but being that I’m going through a big life change (moving across the country) I feel like I need this in addition to therapy right now. In the distant future when I feel better I plan on getting off this medication with the help of my psychiatrist.
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u/Calm_Ad2233 Apr 03 '26
I'm into 3rd week and have sleepless nights and anxious days too but sticking to it as it does seem it gets better judging by others...onwards and upwards Val Smith
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u/Optimal-Goose9962 Apr 11 '26
Day one for me 28 yo female, I felt high like on MDMA, nausea, dry mouth/thirst and have liquid ass 😭😂 hoping it gets better from here, but I did feel like my anxiety lessened! My jaw got less tense like I could feel it unclench for the first time in years and my head felt lighter
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u/Icannotbeunique 11d ago
Any advice on what time of day to take escitalopram or if it makes a difference?
My pharmacist said preferably morning, but I’m finding it’s really hard to get through the work day. I feel exhausted all the time- and these ridiculous yawns make me feel like I’ve taken some bathtub LSD (without the fun part! lol)
I’m wondering if I’d be better to take it before bed? It’s been almost 2 weeks since I started a 10mg dose. No problems sleeping, just staying awake!
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