This sux

[tropicalsoul]

Lexapro has certainly worked for my anxiety & depression.  Problem is I CAN'T POOP!  I've called the doctor twice about this and was told "constipation is not a side effect of Lexapro."  I informed him this started about 3 weeks ago when I began taking Lexapro but he held firm in his statement.  The first time he told me this only made my anxiety worse as I was scared something else was wrong with me.

I've poured over the internet the past 2 weeks about this issue and do find that constipation is a side effect of Lexapro but not a major one.  Yesterday I had decided to try and see if this would correct itself but it does not seem to be and I am VERY UNCOMFORTABLE..sometimes in real pain.  I dont want to take laxatives as they can cause rebound constipation.  I've been getting headaches as well.  GREAT...something else to increase my anxiety!

Anyway...It appears I will have to quit lexapro to get my bowels in working order.  that is a shame...this stuff was working.  

[Paxiled]

Before you call it quits on a med that's working, try a fiber supplement called Daily Fiber Formula by Yerba Prima.  You can find it in any health food store.  And analyze your diet.  Is there enough fiber?  Too much sugar?  Too much white flour?  Too much red meat?  Try to work with the Lexapro, because finding something that works is very hard.  Also keep in mind you're still on a very low dose.  5mg works for some, but the lowest therapeutic dose is 10mg.  It may sound odd, but sometimes too low a dose can cause the side effects of beginning of a new med to hang around.  On the other hand, increasing can cause it to worsen, too.  It's a crapshoot.  As for your doctor telling you constipation isn't a side effect, you might want to find another.  I find that when a psychiatrist tells you nonsense, what happens when you really need him or her, such as when you want to discontinue the med?  Of course constipation is a possible side effect.  As is diarrhea.  Keep in mind that most of the serotonin in your body is in your digestive tract, not your brain, so all antidepressants can cause digestive problems of all kinds.  Good luck.

[matt_s]

try eating some nuts, raisins, and/or fiber cereal.  drink lots of water.  give that a chance.  otherwise don't stop the Lexapro all at once, you must reduce gradually or it can mess you up.