Best med anxiety/depression

[yoko_yes]

Hi:

I have general anxiety with a tendency towards social anxiety. I used to have panic attacks but haven't had one in a couple years.  I also suffer with depression.  What drug has helped you?  I am now taking Klonopin for the anxiety and Prozac for depression.  I would like to cut the Klonopin or at least cut down (now taking 1 mg/day).  The Prozac isn't helping my depression at all and I have given it months to work.

I have heard good things about Lexapro from many people - that it works for anxiety & depression.  My family doctor wants me to take Paxil.  I have heard about problems with Paxil such as very hard to withdrawal from & weight gain.  I am slightly overweight due to 'comfort eating' when I feel down, and dont' want to gain more weight.  I'm in my 50s and it is getting harder & harder to lose weight.  But I would take Paxil if it was the best option as I am tired of being depressed.

[lynn57]

Withdrawals from any SSRI can be difficult.  I currently take Celexa and klonopin.  I was off the Klonopin for a few months, but had another onset of panic attacks with the usual GAD.  The combo of the two meds is perfect for me and I am going to stop trying to fight using meds.  I am over 50 and want to have some peace of mind.  Don't place fear of withdrawal above all else.  If you can find an SSRI that works for you embrace it.  You may never need to go off it, so don't look for problems. If the prozac isn't working for the depression then your anxiety will be worse too.  Lexapro, Celexa, Zoloft, Effexor, Paxil, Cymbalta, are all good meds.  You just have to find the right one.  Pristiq has some of the same properties as Effexor.(SSNRI).  Some people claim a harder time coming off these.  It's all in how YOU feel.  Your doctor needs to work with you and understand your needs.  Good luck!

[j17c27]

Meds really depend on the person.  Lexapro works wonders on some, but had reverse effects on me.  For me, Pristiq worked wonders.  It really depends on how your body handles the different meds and theres no way of knowing until you do the trial and error thing.  Try and stay away from Xanax, Paxil, etc...those are hardcore meds and can lead to bad withdrawls.  Lexapro and Pristiq arent that addicting.  Talk to a psychiatrist...they are a therapist who is allowed to perscribe meds.  They will be the most knowledgeable (more so than a regular doctor) and will be able to guide you better.  Good luck!

[Whazel]

Personally I'd avoid Paxil.  I had issues withdrawing from it back in 1996 and I still feel strongly about it.  Saying that - everyone responds very differently to these meds so what works for one may not for another etc. as I'm sure you're aware.
I take Celexa and have been on 40mg since 2001.  For me it is a wonder drug, although I do use Clonazepam approximately 3 times a week for break-through anxiety.
Make sure your doctor knows your concerns about weight gain.  You are your ultimate advocate and if you have strong feelings about it then stick to your guns!
I wish you well!