BizMan: Lexapro 9 year use

[BizMan]

Hi, everyone. 

I have been on Lexapro (Escitalopram) for 9y for panic disorders, with at least two attempts of withdraw and the truth is that it used to work fine for me. I am 34y old. 

 

It's been over a year that I have been feeling really weird. I have nights sweats, which started ocasional, and now are almost daily. I don't drech in sweat, but usually I feel my legs kind of wet, feel hot and then a strong cold takes my body. My mouth is dry when I wake up as well. At the same time, I wake up feeling I'm still sleeping. It's hard to explain, but it's like I have to think of opening my eyes. When keeping them closed, I see some images within darkness, like geometrics forms. I have a strange sensation in my head as well, which is similar to the brain zaps but not total similar - that's why I point out as Lexapro being the cause of it. 

 

It all last some seconds, I open my eyes and everything goes back to normal. I have no sympton during the day, besides of tiredness of waking up all the time and the insomnia I also have. 

I have been through internet trying to search for meaning of what I have been through and how related this is with Lexapro. I yearly do my check ups and the last one was made 3 months ago, with everything in order. 

 

I wonder if there's any one with similar long-term use side effects related to these meds. 

 

Thanks a lot.

 

[ChessieCat]

Hi BizMan and welcome to SA,

 

We need to know more information about your drug / supplement history including the all dates and doses that you attempted to reduce Lexapro.  Please create your drug signature following these instructions:

 

Instructions:  Withdrawal History Signature

 

Q: Does the start of these issues coincide with anything else, eg change of dose, drinking alcohol, addition / reduction / stopping of any drug or supplement, eg antibiotics, pain drugs etc?

 

Once we have more information we will be better able to assist you.

 

Below are links about tapering:

 

Why taper by 10% of my dosage?

Dr Joseph Glenmullen's WD Symptoms Checklist

 

Tips for tapering off escitalopram (Lexapro)

 

This is your own Introduction topic which is the best place to ask questions about your own situation and journal your progress.

[Heath]

Hello @BizMan welcome to SA ! I too have some of these symptoms you listed from lexapro! One of symptoms  I have is the dry eyes, mouth, and sinuses worse in morning when I awake. I know it seems like a lot but read through what chessiecat sent you it will be worth it! Once you complete your signature with history the moderators will guide you!