Any cure for Cipralex fatigue?

Question:

I have been on 20 mg per day Cipralex for the past two months or so. I suffer from both social anxiety and moderate to severe depression, and this medication is wonderful for both. My anxiety has all but disappeared, and the depression has definitely improved. As with most SSRIs, however, there are inevitable side effects. The worst for me is the extreme tiredness and exhaustion. This is the reason that I have stopped taking medication in the past; my job is rather intense and requires that I am constantly 'on' but it is difficult to do while on Cipralex. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to address (i.e., countermand) SSRI fatigue without reducing the dosage? I have tried various things to no avail, including supplementing with Provigil (worsened my depression), drinking Red Bull (negligible effect), exercising (no effect) and taking the Cipralex at night vs the morning. Many thanks in advance.

Answers:
you may benefit from taking anafranil , or prozac,which dont have a history of causing tiredness in many patients-but obviously you will have to ask your doctors advice.

Hi pat 800,

It's interesting to hear that in your experience it is the Cipralex that is producing tiredness and exhaustion. These symptoms are also indicative of subliminal anxiety and may
have been present even before you began medicating.

What I suggest is that you try to get a good night's sleep as often as is possible for you,exercise regularly and watch your diet (eat properly and at necessary intervals) 3 meals a
day. I know you are convinced that your exhaustion is emotional and not physical, or due to the med(s) alone but lifestyle measures will improve overall psychological health.
Deep breathing exercises, meditation, prayer and spirituality if you believe in them will lessen the effects of
subliminal anxiety.

What I believe is creating this anxiety is a combination of cognitive and emotional cues. This activity can take place despite conscious wakefullness so you must get on top of it by addressing your fears whatever they may be. Nothing is impossible if you believe (Jesus Christ 24-29 AD) There are of course other ways to build your self-confidence and sense of control over your emotions, seek them out if you wish.

Whatever triggers the sympathetic nervous system to activate, become alarmed etc. will produce tiredness and exhaustion signalling a parasympathetic response. This is normal. Overactivity of these componenets of the Peripheral Nervous System can produce the sensations associated with chronic tiredness and fatigue. Do not despair for adequate rest is an effective counter measure you simply must work out for yourself how to achieve this and take it easy on yourself. Try also to maximize your internal locus of control over your circumstances and respond less to external cues. I believe you already know this intuitively.

There is much more to say but time does not permit. I'm happy however that the meds have helped tremendously to lessen the anxiety you used to feel in social situations. This is definately an improvement in your psychological adaptivity and functioning and you are a smart girl. Good for you. If all else fails, try regulating yur dosage or changing to another SSRI. Your physician can work with you best.

Love and best wishes and God bless.

Barry H

Any cure for Cipralex fatigue?

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