Lexapro and palpitations?

Question:

My doctor prescribed me Lexapro 10 mg 4 weeks ago, but when I took it I got severe nausea, insomnia, and heart palpitations. So I went down to 5 mg and just still had insomnia. He wanted me to try to go back up to 10 mg, so me (being extra careful) started with 7.5 mg. I got the palpitations again and a tic in my upper eyelid. I am still having trouble with insomnia and it's been 3 weeks now. I am very concerned about the palpitations---is this normal, does it go away, should I stay on a lower dose? My doctor just says it's from the anxiety, but I was super anxious before going on the meds and didn't have palpitations! Please, any help?

Answers:
I had very similar experiences with some antidepressants, and the doctor discounted me when I told him the side effects were intolerable and that the medication made me feel worse than before (even after a month of taking it). So I found another doctor who listened and found the right kind of meds for me. The doctors know the drugs, but you know your body, so if you're not getting the help you need, seek out a second opinion. Be persistent until you find the right doctor and the right meds.

Hi there. I am on Lexapro, and have been since the end of June. I am on 10 mg. I have not noticed an increase in my palpilations since starting this med. I had some palpalations before taking Lexapro, and I think it had to do with anxiety. Did you have palpilations before you started the Lexapro? If so, it is possible it is anxiety doing it. How severe are they? If your doctor feels comfortable that it is only your anxiety, then I too, would rest easy about it. I would stay on the 10 mg dose if you can tolerate it.

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I was on Lexapro and did not experience these side-effects. However, I did experience sexual side-effects and it didn't work for my depression. Currently, I am on Abilify at 10 mg with modest progress.

I agree that you should see another doctor to get a second opinion. Med mixes take time to get right.

Good luck to you!

Lexapro and palpitations?

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