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Psychotropic medication discussion thread

Started by Robin Myers91 · · 👁 412 views · 10K replies

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Participants Robin Myers91Eric Wood7Maria Gomez6crimsonhound80Tyler Ortiz6dustyscout41Andrew Stewart2George Ramos64Morgan Long49Jason Sanchez3briskgull27Charles Edwards8Brenda Allen2hollowtinker8bluecyclist28electricorca13David Kern14Ashley Morganwanderingscout13Sam Hall15coppergardenerCarl Thompson4Mark Stewartanalognomad762 …
quietwalker5 quietwalker5 Active Member
70 messages
joined Mar 2016
#7861 ·
Brandon Murphy5 said:Since you've been around this forum for quite a while, I was hoping you might be able to point me in the right direction, because I’ve gone through Zoloft during two different stretches in the past, always pairing it with Lexapro, and eventually, things seemed to settle down and feel okay enough.
At first, it felt like trying to climb a mountain in a blizzard—just incredibly difficult to adjust—but I managed to push through it.

Now I'm starting back up on Zoloft on my own, beginning with a half dose in the morning (though I'm not entirely sure if taking it at night would be more effective), and I'm wondering if I should go ahead and combine it with Lexapro again, and if so, what kind of dosage makes sense?

Do you have any solid advice or personal insight you could share?

Thanks so much

Hi,
I am also taking Luxet (Zoloft), specifically half a tablet at night. Could you tell me how long the adjustment period typically lasts? When does the improvement actually kick in?

Thanks

P.S. I take Xanax 0.25mg (half a pill) as needed.
Jason Vaughn482 Jason Vaughn482 Regular
488 messages
joined Jul 2012
#7862 ·
James Fowler3 said:I’m not entirely certain if this specific medication has been discussed here before, but I find myself in need of your collective insights...
My neuropsychiatrist recently prescribed Adderall 20 mg to address an anxiety disorder and some rather sudden panic attacks that surfaced after a period of feeling quite stable—I had actually managed to pull myself out of my previous state of anxiety, which mostly manifested as health anxiety, though these recent panic attacks have been far more intense than anything I've faced before. Now, following this abrupt onset that has left such lasting consequences, I feel constantly on edge; I can't even be alone with my children without feeling overwhelmed, and the physical symptoms are simply debilitating... I can see clearly now that I cannot manage this on my own.
Because of the sheer variety of potential side effects, I have always avoided medications quite broadly; there is a genuine fear there. Occasionally, I have used Xanax, and I still take 2 mg when necessary. My mother used to take a similar medication for her stomach issues—specifically a hiatal hernia—so she asked if this was the same thing, and the doctor confirmed it was, and even the woman at the pharmacy suggested it might be for gastric issues as well.
However, as I read through the list of side effects, things like malignant neuroleptic syndrome and even sudden death are mentioned... it is truly frightening. He has prescribed a dosage of 2x20 mg.
Has anyone else ever taken this medication, and what are your thoughts regarding these side effects?

In my experience, that medication was quite effective, though I only stayed on it for a short duration because I have a deep-seated aversion to AP... honestly, I don't believe those extreme side effects can manifest at such a low dosage, given that people often take much higher amounts, sometimes up to 800 mg. I share your intense fear regarding side effects, truly, but perhaps you should give it a shot; it might provide the relief you need without triggering those complications at this dose. It works well for anxiety. I personally started with just one 50 mg dose, and I found it manageable.
redpilot37 redpilot37 Active Member
209 messages
joined Sep 2008
#7863 ·
quietwalker5 said:Hi,
I am also taking Luxet (Zoloft), specifically half a tablet at night. Could you tell me how long the adjustment period typically lasts? When does the improvement actually kick in?

Thanks

P.S. I take Xanax 0.25mg (half a pill) as needed.

I've only been on it for about twenty days. For me, the side effects lasted through the first week, then after two or three weeks you start feeling a slight improvement. My side effects cleared up right after that first week. I started with half a tablet and then moved up to one full 50 mg Zoloft per day.
Michelle Kelly4 Michelle Kelly4 Active Member
68 messages
joined Jan 2014
#7864 ·
I didn't experience any side effects from Zoloft at all
James Fowler3 James Fowler3 Member
34 messages
joined Jul 2014
#7865 ·
Jason Vaughn482 said:In my experience, that medication was quite effective, though I only stayed on it for a short duration because I have a deep-seated aversion to AP... honestly, I don't believe those extreme side effects can manifest at such a low dosage, given that people often take much higher amounts, sometimes up to 800 mg. I share your intense fear regarding side effects, truly, but perhaps you should give it a shot; it might provide the relief you need without triggering those complications at this dose. It works well for anxiety. I personally started with just one 50 mg dose, and I found it manageable.

Thank you. To be honest, I am somewhat perplexed as to why my doctor prescribed an AP in the first place, considering my diagnosis is simply an anxiety disorder. I am aware that it is used to treat anxiety and various other conditions, of course, but this is my very first experience with this type of medication... he hasn't even attempted to start me on an antidepressant yet. 🤷
Why is it that you don't like AP?
I have been spending quite a bit of time lately reading about this drug online, and I find it truly difficult to believe how casually some people seem to take it... using it for stomach issues, or just to deal with a bit of stress, or even just taking it occasionally as needed... I just don't know.
Is the process of tapering off it particularly difficult? Is there any chance this will actually cure me, or am I simply stepping into a lifelong cycle of pills with no way out... all of these thoughts are just spinning endlessly in my head...
He also prescribed me Xanax, but since I am generally terrified of side effects, I would much prefer Ativan... I don't feel that same fear toward it.
Ethan Cruz4 Ethan Cruz4 Member
31 messages
joined Jun 2014
#7866 ·
There is a certain profound sense of liberation that comes from letting go of everything that weighs you down. It feels much like being caught in a sudden, powerful gust of wind—unburdened, untethered, and moving with a momentum that is entirely beyond your control. It is a state of pure existence, where the noise of the world finally fades into the background. kaže:
When you're fasting, the body is essentially forced to tap into its existing energy reserves, which naturally leads to weight loss. It’s a basic biological necessity. My question is: could Leponex potentially interfere with that metabolic process or disrupt how those stores are utilized? 😢

My advice would be to focus on eating smaller, more frequent meals consisting of low-glycemic foods. This approach should help you avoid those massive spikes and crashes in both your blood sugar and insulin levels. It is a well-documented reality that almost everyone prescribed Clozapine or Olanzapine experiences significant weight gain, primarily because these medications fundamentally alter how your body metabolizes carbohydrates and fats.
I was recently reading through some research suggesting that certain habits can spike your leptin levels to the point where the body begins developing resistance. Once that happens, you're essentially on a fast track toward prediabetes and weight gain. Following that logic, it stands to reason that our metabolic mechanisms start mimicking those found in prediabetic individuals. If that's the case, it would be highly logical to study the dietary patterns of diabetics to understand how to avoid this cycle—especially if you notice your weight gain is concentrating specifically around your waistline and abdomen.
P.S. I’ve been browsing some international health forums lately, and I noticed several people mentioning how much they benefited from switching to a Paleo-style diet combined with a more rigorous exercise routine. It might be worth looking into—perhaps it's something you could try?

James Fowler3 said:Thank you. To be honest, I am somewhat perplexed as to why my doctor prescribed an AP in the first place, considering my diagnosis is simply an anxiety disorder. I am aware that it is used to treat anxiety and various other conditions, of course, but this is my very first experience with this type of medication... he hasn't even attempted to start me on an antidepressant yet. 🤷
Why is it that you don't like AP?
I have been spending quite a bit of time lately reading about this drug online, and I find it truly difficult to believe how casually some people seem to take it... using it for stomach issues, or just to deal with a bit of stress, or even just taking it occasionally as needed... I just don't know.
Is the process of tapering off it particularly difficult? Is there any chance this will actually cure me, or am I simply stepping into a lifelong cycle of pills with no way out... all of these thoughts are just spinning endlessly in my head...
He also prescribed me Xanax, but since I am generally terrified of side effects, I would much prefer Ativan... I don't feel that same fear toward it.

Medication is really just a buffer for your symptoms. If you can work through the actual root of the problem on your own—perhaps through psychotherapy or dedicated self-reflection—that will always be the most effective form of treatment. It’s possible they started this specific regimen just to stabilize an acute situation, with the intention of transitioning you over to an antidepressant later down the road. Have you had a chance to ask your psychiatrist about the reasoning behind this approach?
Antidepressants aren't always the right tool for the job when it comes to anxiety, particularly during those moments when it hits acutely. 🤷
The more you prioritize your own well-being and proactive health management, the more manageable the side effects and physical tension tend to become. Personally, I find myself feeling quite anxious about them because I have a very high sensitivity to medication. It’s certainly not like taking an Advil; you can't just brush it off. However, what truly matters is staying consistent with whatever regimen currently serves your specific needs. At the end of the day, everyone's experience is entirely individual.
I honestly believe that at that specific dosage of Eglonyl, you really have nothing to worry about. Just take it slow and try to stay calm. 🙂
quietwalker5 quietwalker5 Active Member
70 messages
joined Mar 2016
#7867 ·
redpilot37 said:I've only been on it for about twenty days. For me, the side effects lasted through the first week, then after two or three weeks you start feeling a slight improvement. My side effects cleared up right after that first week. I started with half a tablet and then moved up to one full 50 mg Zoloft per day.

My doctor prefers a gradual approach. One week at 1/4, then the second week at 1/2. I am currently on day nine. However, the depression still feels overwhelming, so I take 1/2 Xanax in the morning. I spoke with her yesterday, and she said we will start 3/4 Luxet this Saturday.
And she mentioned we shouldn't expect real progress until we hit a full tablet and stay there for three weeks.

Thank you for sharing your experience. I'm struggling with some intense fatigue today.
Did the pills cause you any stomach issues?
fadedbear92 fadedbear92 Veteran
1.1K messages
joined Dec 2008
#7868 ·
quietwalker5 said:My doctor prefers a gradual approach. One week at 1/4, then the second week at 1/2. I am currently on day nine. However, the depression still feels overwhelming, so I take 1/2 Xanax in the morning. I spoke with her yesterday, and she said we will start 3/4 Luxet this Saturday.
And she mentioned we shouldn't expect real progress until we hit a full tablet and stay there for three weeks.

Thank you for sharing your experience. I'm struggling with some intense fatigue today.
Did the pills cause you any stomach issues?

That sounds like an even better approach, and your doctor gave you solid advice.😉
quietwalker5 quietwalker5 Active Member
70 messages
joined Mar 2016
#7869 ·
Michelle Kelly4 said:I didn't experience any side effects from Zoloft at all

Neither have I so far (taking half a tablet). But did it help you? How long have you been on it?
I am taking it for depression, though I realized my agoraphobia and panic attacks are also issues...
I read somewhere that once the depression lifts, the other symptoms eventually follow suit. Like a heavy fog clearing to reveal the landscape underneath.

Thanks for reaching out.
quietwalker5 quietwalker5 Active Member
70 messages
joined Mar 2016
#7870 ·
fadedbear92 said:That sounds like an even better approach, and your doctor gave you solid advice.😉

Thank you so much.
Michael Clark4 Michael Clark4 Newcomer
1 message
joined Jul 2014
#7871 ·
Hey there,

So, I’m officially on day six of taking 20 mg of Paxil for my anxiety and depression. At first, I felt pretty wiped out—not totally incapacitated, but definitely feeling off—though I can tell the nausea is starting to dial back the longer I stick with it. The real issue right now is my pupils; they're acting crazy and I look like I'm tripping on LSD. Does this go away, or am I stuck looking like a freak forever? Anyone else dealt with this?
James Fowler3 James Fowler3 Member
34 messages
joined Jul 2014
#7872 ·
Ethan Cruz4 said:
There is a certain profound sense of liberation that comes from letting go of everything that weighs you down. It feels much like being caught in a sudden, powerful gust of wind—unburdened, untethered, and moving with a momentum that is entirely beyond your control. It is a state of pure existence, where the noise of the world finally fades into the background. kaže:
When you're fasting, the body is essentially forced to tap into its existing energy reserves, which naturally leads to weight loss. It’s a basic biological necessity. My question is: could Leponex potentially interfere with that metabolic process or disrupt how those stores are utilized? 😢

My advice would be to focus on eating smaller, more frequent meals consisting of low-glycemic foods. This approach should help you avoid those massive spikes and crashes in both your blood sugar and insulin levels. It is a well-documented reality that almost everyone prescribed Clozapine or Olanzapine experiences significant weight gain, primarily because these medications fundamentally alter how your body metabolizes carbohydrates and fats.
I was recently reading through some research suggesting that certain habits can spike your leptin levels to the point where the body begins developing resistance. Once that happens, you're essentially on a fast track toward prediabetes and weight gain. Following that logic, it stands to reason that our metabolic mechanisms start mimicking those found in prediabetic individuals. If that's the case, it would be highly logical to study the dietary patterns of diabetics to understand how to avoid this cycle—especially if you notice your weight gain is concentrating specifically around your waistline and abdomen.
P.S. I’ve been browsing some international health forums lately, and I noticed several people mentioning how much they benefited from switching to a Paleo-style diet combined with a more rigorous exercise routine. It might be worth looking into—perhaps it's something you could try?

Medication is really just a buffer for your symptoms. If you can work through the actual root of the problem on your own—perhaps through psychotherapy or dedicated self-reflection—that will always be the most effective form of treatment. It’s possible they started this specific regimen just to stabilize an acute situation, with the intention of transitioning you over to an antidepressant later down the road. Have you had a chance to ask your psychiatrist about the reasoning behind this approach?
Antidepressants aren't always the right tool for the job when it comes to anxiety, particularly during those moments when it hits acutely. 🤷
The more you prioritize your own well-being and proactive health management, the more manageable the side effects and physical tension tend to become. Personally, I find myself feeling quite anxious about them because I have a very high sensitivity to medication. It’s certainly not like taking an Advil; you can't just brush it off. However, what truly matters is staying consistent with whatever regimen currently serves your specific needs. At the end of the day, everyone's experience is entirely individual.
I honestly believe that at that specific dosage of Eglonyl, you really have nothing to worry about. Just take it slow and try to stay calm. 🙂

Yes, I am planning on starting psychotherapy, but since summer vacations last until September, I have to wait... though my therapist did suggest I double-check my thyroid levels first, because it seems strange that after being stable for such a long stretch without any intervention, everything has suddenly spiraled again.
I didn't actually ask him why; he mostly just told me it was for my stomach, advised me to take it and get outside as much as possible, and insisted that nothing bad could happen to me. I mentioned to him that the physical symptoms are what bother me the most, so perhaps that is why he specifically prescribed Eglonyl... I haven't asked about next steps yet, he just told me to come back for a follow-up in two weeks.
I also struggle with the fact that I'm so sensitive to medication. For instance, even a small dose of Xanax can leave me drowsy for the entire day. I can't help but wonder how I'll fare with this... 🤷
Michelle Kelly4 Michelle Kelly4 Active Member
68 messages
joined Jan 2014
#7873 ·
I've been on 100 for a while now and I'm still not feeling 100% satisfied...
redpilot37 redpilot37 Active Member
209 messages
joined Sep 2008
#7874 ·
quietwalker5 said:My doctor prefers a gradual approach. One week at 1/4, then the second week at 1/2. I am currently on day nine. However, the depression still feels overwhelming, so I take 1/2 Xanax in the morning. I spoke with her yesterday, and she said we will start 3/4 Luxet this Saturday.
And she mentioned we shouldn't expect real progress until we hit a full tablet and stay there for three weeks.

Thank you for sharing your experience. I'm struggling with some intense fatigue today.
Did the pills cause you any stomach issues?

I'm feeling that fatigue too. I expected it to give me a bit more of a boost... but there is some progress, just minimal. It'll probably settle in after a few months.
They cause me a little nausea, but nothing intense. It's not actual stomach pain, just that weird, slight nausea... a strange sensation.
You can usually expect to feel a shift about two weeks into the antidepressant. Half a pill isn't much... once you get up to a full one, you'll definitely notice things getting better.
quietwalker5 quietwalker5 Active Member
70 messages
joined Mar 2016
#7875 ·
redpilot37 said:I'm feeling that fatigue too. I expected it to give me a bit more of a boost... but there is some progress, just minimal. It'll probably settle in after a few months.
They cause me a little nausea, but nothing intense. It's not actual stomach pain, just that weird, slight nausea... a strange sensation.
You can usually expect to feel a shift about two weeks into the antidepressant. Half a pill isn't much... once you get up to a full one, you'll definitely notice things getting better.


So, you're still dealing with exhaustion even twenty days into the treatment?
It should pass eventually. Are you taking anything to help you relax? How is your sleep?
I take Luxet in the evening.🤷
redpilot37 redpilot37 Active Member
209 messages
joined Sep 2008
#7876 ·
"Quote:"
quietwalker5 said:So, you're still dealing with exhaustion even twenty days into the treatment?
It should pass eventually. Are you taking anything to help you relax? How is your sleep?
I take Luxet in the evening.🤷

Yeah, true. Before I started treatment, I was all over the place. Now, the ADHD meds just chill me out perfectly. I end up just sitting at my computer for hours, and before I know it, the whole day is gone. It used to be the exact opposite—time felt like it was dragging forever.
Before I started taking Zoloft, I’d wake up for a second feeling totally restless. There were times when I was drifting off under all that stress and would get these hypnagogic hallucinations. I actually brought it up to my therapist, but he just laughed it off. When I asked him if I was experiencing psychosis, he just said, "No, you're just a little stressed out."😁My current routine is one Zoloft in the morning and 5 mg of Normabel at night. My doctor originally thought about dropping me down to 2 mg. I had to stop him. I told him, "Doc, what am I supposed to do with 2 mg? I’ve had 5 mg sitting in my cabinet for months just in case, and honestly, 2 mg feels like a kid's candy."🤣Back to what I was saying... since I started on Zoloft, the fatigue has been brutal. In the beginning, I’d just crash. I'd hit the bed in the middle of the afternoon and pass out immediately. Never used to do that.😲Things have calmed down a bit. Honestly, that ADHD medication keeps me steady enough that I don't even touch the Normabel before bed anymore. I only reach for it if I really need to crash fast or if I ended up staying up way too late.
I’ve never actually tried Luxet. I know about Normabel and Lexapro, but that’s about it. Lexapro never really sat right with me—it just made me feel all shaky and disconnected. For a while there, I was bouncing between herbal remedies, supplements, and various other stuff, but eventually, I just had to say enough is enough. Looking back, I’m glad I stopped playing around with that. You’ll see things start to improve once the therapy actually kicks in.😉
Michael Hill2 Michael Hill2 Active Member
168 messages
joined Jul 2014
#7877 ·
Michael Clark4 said:Hey there,

So, I’m officially on day six of taking 20 mg of Paxil for my anxiety and depression. At first, I felt pretty wiped out—not totally incapacitated, but definitely feeling off—though I can tell the nausea is starting to dial back the longer I stick with it. The real issue right now is my pupils; they're acting crazy and I look like I'm tripping on LSD. Does this go away, or am I stuck looking like a freak forever? Anyone else dealt with this?

It will. I went through the exact same thing when I first started my antidepressants, so don't you worry.🙂
Michelle Kelly4 Michelle Kelly4 Active Member
68 messages
joined Jan 2014
#7878 ·
I'm feeling pretty restless and on edge today...
Michael Hill2 Michael Hill2 Active Member
168 messages
joined Jul 2014
#7879 ·
Michelle Kelly4 said:I'm feeling pretty restless and on edge today...

Just take some Xanax and try some deep breathing exercises. 🙂
Michelle Kelly4 Michelle Kelly4 Active Member
68 messages
joined Jan 2014
#7880 ·
I've been taking it, but honestly, it’s not doing anything for me. I just feel really weird and depressed...

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