Depression Support Group

Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.

24,601 Members

160,807 Posts

1 Online

OLDBIKER 09/25/2011

I have been on anti-depressants since 1995. I got off of them in early 2005 and was doing quite well then, my son was killed in July of 2005 and I relapsed and had to go back on them.

I have elected to get off Lexapro. I have done the slow step down method as my Dr. prescribed in 2005. I am having some side effects that are very annoying. I have light headiness and also I am very jittery.
Loud noises, startle me and I am jumpy. I have been taking multi-vitamins to help with these withdrawals and drinking a lot of liquids. I have been off Lexapro now for 1 week.

I was on Celexa when I go off in 2005 but, this time, the side effects are more harsh and seem to be lasting longer. Anyone got off Lexapro? How long did these side effects last?

Thanks.

deleted_user 09/25/2011

My best wishes for getting of Lexapro. I pray withdrawl symptoms will decline in time.

deleted_user 09/26/2011

I have gotten off Lexapro on 2 different occasions and I never had any withdrawal symptoms but I really did it slowly-I did small incremental lowering over a period of weeks. I did have to go back on it but I've recently lowered it by 25%. Everyone is different so of course everyone has different reactions. By the way, I'm so sorry you've had to deal with the loss of a son. That is tough. I too have had a child die and it's definitely the hardest thing I've had to deal with. Good luck with the withdrawal! One thought - have you considered any supplements to assist you with withdrawal- my naturopath has recommended 5-htp, and GABA for me and I know some people use St. John's wort or SAMe. Anyway, good luck!

deleted_user 09/26/2011

I am sorry for your loss. I hope that you feel better trying 2 wean off of Lexapro. Good luck to you on that. Sounds like the withdrawals are affecting your nervous system more than you expected. I don't think you should stop cold turkey. That will be a shock to your nerves & your mental brain wave. That's probably why you are jumpy & jittery. It is similiar to alcohol withdrawal, can be somewhat dangerous if not monitored by a physician.

Try to be careful & contact your doctor immediately. Your side affects are too serious to deplete the drug all at once.

In the meantime, you should take a few calcium w/magnesium capsules to help your nerves & to help you relax. You actually need to double the recommended dose of calcium with magnesium since your nerves are out of control. B-complex vitamins help also with the nervous system. Eat healthy & drink your fluids as you mentioned & good luck! You are in my prayers. One minute at a time & One Day at a time!

deleted_user 09/26/2011

I had a very difficult time getting off of lexapro. It took me months to do it. I had alot of the same withdrawl symptoms. They eventually went away but it took time. I wish you the best getting off of it and hope you feel better.

Join the Conversation