lexapro & abilify

[carebear06]

I have been taking the lexapro for almost 2 weeks now for anxiety/panic.  After 4 days of just half a dose (5mg) I felt really strange and depressed.  Alittle better now, but still down more so then before the lexapro.  Is this something that goes away once you're on the med for awhile?  I already had severe anxiety with panic, I don't want to add deppression on because of the meds, if this is the case.  Now the dr. wants me to try the 5 mg of lexapro and 2.5 mg of the abilify together, but I'm scared!  I hate taking meds anyway but want to feel better.  I have also been taking .25 mgs of zanax 3 times a day.  I don't want to become a zombie!

[briannentx]

lexapro gave me severe headaches and also made me feel weird it wasnt a good med for me either .. There are so many meds out there these days just give it some time you will find one I got back on paxil because so far it has worked the best for me after prozac  then zoloft quit working for me .... Bri

[Bob_D]

The web site Drugs.com Lexapro entry advises the following: "Tell your doctor if you have worsening symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several weeks of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed." Also "it may take four weeks or longer before you start feeling better".

I wouldn't worry about becoming a zombie. Zombie-type behavior is usually associated with the older psychiatric drugs like Thorazine or major tranquilizers
like Haldol and not with SSRI's like Lexapro. I've taken up to three antidepressants at once, including Lexapro, and I don't feel my ability to function was impaired in any way.

5 mg is a conservative dosage to start with Lexapro; I believe the suggested beginning dosage is 10 mg.

Keep your psychiatrist informed of how you are feeling and best of luck to you.