tongue and jaw cramps with anti-depressants

[lpierce]

I used to take Effexor and felt it really helped until I started getting tongue cramps and problems with speech fluidity.  I then went back to Lexapro and have less problems but still have some speech issues and tongue cramping or freezing.  Is there an anti-depressant that has less side effects?  Does it sound like an allergic reaction or something neurological?  I feel I need the medication but can't tolerate speech issues.

[whodunnit]

Good avice from you both. I'm no expert on meds and can really only report on what I've been through and read up on. Like all meds anything is possible and I'm sorry to hear of Remar's problem but pleased it went away on changing meds.

God I wish we didn't have to take these things, it's like that awful Forrest Gump saying isn't it?

"Meds are like a box of chocolates, you never know...." I hate that saying as it was but it seems relevant here.

We haven't actually fully answered LP's question I notice.

LP, if it happens on two different meds then my feeling is the problem is something else and you need a physical examination. It may have started with FX but if it's still there then it needs investigation. Good luck to you.

[ILADVOCATE]

Some anti-depressents can cause temporary movement disorders such as akathesia which can be treated with a side effect pill. I don't know the potential of each type or class of anti-depressent causing that but you should speak to your psychiatrist about that and ask if that's what could be going on and if there is alternative that would work for you that doesn't cause it if that's what it is.

[remar]

I had this problem when I took Effexor. I also had severe jaw pain and ear aches that would literally make me sit and cry. Once I stopped the Effexor those symptoms went away. You just never know for sure what kind of side effects your going to get from any med. Take care. Remar

[whodunnit]

Hi,

Read here :

http://www.drugs.com/sfx/effexor-side-effects.html

For Effexor side effects. The issues you raise are not mentioned that I can see but check it out for yourself as I fel rather faint just reading the list (joke).

I've not heard of these issues related to A/D's before but that doesn't mean it does not occur.