weaning off medicine

[crissy1981]

i was told by the dr. on here that weaning off of lexapro i might want to be substituded with something for seizures. It really scares me that I might start having seizures by weaning off of something. How likely is that to happen?

[ilovelucy71]

I was on Lexapro for 3 years (for panic attacks & agoraphobia) and also weaned down slowly until I was only taking  2.5 mg for a few weeks, then I  quit taking it.
I did NOT  have any seizures - just increased anxiety, flu like symptoms and some dizziness when weaning off. Do not quit cold turkey or you will probably be very miserable.  Wean off slowly.
My panic attacks did come back after about a year off of Lexapro. Tried to go back on it twice now and it does not work the way it did before.

Good luck and best wishes

[Sandra Y, RPh]

Withdrawal from Lexapro usually occurs when patients stop the medication suddenly.  If your plan is to stop lexapro, your doctor will wean you off of it slowly so that you can minimize any withdrawal symptoms you may experience.  However seizing is not a common withdrawal symptom when stopping Lexapro.  I would discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your doctor and be clear.  He/she will be able to help and work with you.  

[historybuff24]

I weaned off Lexapro after 4 years.
I was taking 20 mg everyday, after 2 months was down to 2.5mg. then stopped that after 2 weeks. I didn't have a problem, except for minor anxiety(which I have anyway).
Good luck.

[crissy1981]

i was told by the dr. on here that weaning off of lexapro i might want to be substituded with something for seizures. It really scares me that I might start having seizures by weaning off of something. How likely is that to happen?