I think my new antidepressant is making my asthma worse

[Bearrules]

I started taking escitalopram 5mg last Saturday to help treat anxiety. It has worked remarkably well so far. But I’ve noticed my chest becoming progressively worse this week, with my peak flow being at 375/350 and I can’t get it to budge. Normally it’s 400/410.

I read that serotonin can cause bronchoconstriction. But don’t see SSRI’s as being contra-indicated for asthma.

Wondering if anyone else has found their SSRI made their asthma worse? Or maybe it’s a co-incidence.

[EmmaF91 Community Ambassador]

Hi

No experience to mention, but it’s worth telling your GP what’s going on regarding your PF and see what they advice. It could be that you have issues just with this particular drug but would be fine or something else! They may also be able to help you work out if it’s the SSRI or another trigger

Hope this helps and things get sorted soon