Lexapro and thyroid question

[GraceforToday18]

Hello,

Recently prescribed Lexapro for severe anxiety and moderate depression. Does it really take 4-6 weeks to work? I feel like I easily feel the effects of things like caffeine, alcohol, etc., so I was wondering if it would take less time for me to feel some effect. I would love for it to work sooner. I haven't taken it yet, as my family and I are going to discuss this weekend the pros and cons.

Tangentially related, but has anyone experienced thyroid issues as the main cause of sudden onset depression and anxiety? I did just move out of state so I do think that was the trigger, but I was also recently tested for thyroid dysfunction when I went to see my GP about the mental health issues. Waiting on results. Would honestly love for this to "just" be a thyroid thing and nothing else!

[Hidden]

It takes at least a month to feel the changes but you should probably ease up on the caffeine and alcohol

[GraceforToday18 in reply to Hidden]

I don't actually use either of those on an even semi-regular basis, but I just know I'm easily impacted by things that target my central nervous system Thank you for your reply!

[Sprinkle1]

Hello, If you have thyroid disease it could affect your mental status, that is why our Dr's check it, it needs to be kept in balance.

As for the Lexapro, I just started on that this week, I am hoping it kicks in soon as I have severe anxiety, with some depression.

Hope your family is understanding and will help you to get out of your suffering. Do not hesitate to talk to your Dr.they are here to help us. As are we, so come and talk to us, we love you and care, we will help if we can. Never forget a good therapist can be of help and a support group is invaluable, I have been in several, they also give love and understanding. I send you love, and hugs. Sprinkle 1.....xx

[GraceforToday18 in reply to Sprinkle1]

Thank you so much. My family has been amazing, but I also get scared that they'll get overly frustrated with me and stop taking my early morning panic attack phone calls...my doctor was wonderful and let me talk about my issues forever when I went to get assessed and prescribed the Lexapro yesterday, and I am also seeing a Christian psychologist for counseling weekly. I joined the site to find support and maybe support others, too.

[Sprinkle1 in reply to GraceforToday18]

Good for you Grace, I think you are on the right road, keep on it, take care of you, You are No. 1 in your life, never forget that, we have to help ourselves first before we can help any one else. Keep coming back and talking to us, we care about you and love you. Sprinkle 1.....xxx

[Clue in reply to GraceforToday18]

all the support u need. We are here if you need us. Don't hesitate to ask.

[Hidden]

I have thyroid issues and anxiety depression issues. Even with my thyroid medication I have anxiety and depression if there is a major stressful event. I take Lexapro and felt better within a week, but there were side effects as well to get through.

[GraceforToday18 in reply to Hidden]

Good to know. I have never experienced anything like this and have never had to take anything before, so I'm really nervous about side effects and weaning off one day. I go between desperately wanting to take it when I have an anxiety attack and crying spell and not wanting to take it. (Haven't started it yet, just got Rx yesterday)

[Hidden in reply to GraceforToday18]

Just start slowly, 2.5mg and increase every week. Same with weaning off, go slowly. Lexapro is one of the best and not many side effects.

[GraceforToday18 in reply to Hidden]

They gave me 10mg--do most people need to start lower? Should I ask the MD or pharmacist about this?

[Hidden in reply to GraceforToday18]

I would not start that high, it’s pretty powerful and if you are sensitive to medication you’ll feel like crap. They may tell you to start at 5, but honestly you can start as low as you want. If you are brand new to medication I’d start at 2.5

[GraceforToday18 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks. I will call the pharmacy and ask some questions and call my doctor when they open on Tuesday.

[Hidden]

I have a thyroid problem and have been in Synthroid for years. My levels are tested every 3 months. Certainly if your thyroid is out of whack, you’ll feel horrible and nervousness is a symptom of that. But somewhere along the line I started getting anxiety attacks that ended me up on Lexapro -10 mg, with .5 Clonazepam if needed. Lexapro does nothing for me, but I feel great after taking the Clonazepam. And yes, I was told Lexapro takes 6-8 weeks to kick in. Good luck to you!

[Hidden]

Grace, did you find out if it was thyroid or anxiety? I’m on Synthroid and Lexapro. Both meds have been adjusted, both have similar side effects. But after a thorough evaluation at The Mayo Clinic, I’m told it’s anxiety. For sure anxiety is as much a disease/condition as any other. Lexapro has not cured me, but it sure helps restore quality of life. And that’s what I’m striving for right now. Keep trying untilyou find what’s right for you. Then let us know. Good luck!