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anxiety about taking meds

Hi all,

I have suffered with anxiety for many years. A few years ago I finally came to a point where I had to take meds. I was afraid of taking the meds because I was afraid that I may get some bad side effects from it. So my doctor put me on 5mg of Lexipro. Then 10mg. I have taken them since. about three years ago. Now my depression and anxiety are pretty bad. He wants me to take 20mg a day now. I guess my question is this.. Will I get more side effects by raising the dosage. I swear I am a hypochondriac also. I am thinking that I will get some weird side effects.
I like this forum, and have gotten some comforting words back on here in the past.
Thanks, any comments will be appreciated
3 Responses
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1600750 tn?1297568464
The hardest thing for me to do is increase my meds. I procrastinate for so long. My advice to you is to take a piece of paper, write a row of cons and a row of pro's. Decide from that. The next thing I can advise you to do in my opinion is to do what will make you feel better and free your mind and life up for you to enjoy it.
Helpful - 0
1666691 tn?1303754348
Its not likely youll get weird side effects suddenly.What you could do to make your body ease into it is do 15 for a week and then 20.
Im pretty sure youll be fine,good luck! lily
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Avatar universal
There is always a risk of side effects when taking a medication. Though doctors generally start with a low does to ensure that it is well tolerated, and gradually increase as necessary (assuming the medication is continually well tolerated). My best advice is to weigh your options....if your anxiety is affecting your ability to function in your day to day life, perhaps a few mild side effects can be tolerated in exchange for the relief from anxiety symptoms you will experience. Also, many people with anxiety disorders do very well with only psychotherapeutic interventions (therapy) focusing on relaxation techniques.
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