[rnlaura06]

I am new to the forum (hello everyone) and just found this website. I'm a nurse on the West side of the state and have a few questions about anti-depressants. I've heard quite a bit of conflicting information - specifically about Lexapro, Effexor and Cymbalta - I wondered if any of you have had consistent experience with these and what your thoughts are on how they work and (more importantly) side effects you've seen - not just heard or read about.

Thanks again - great to be here!

Laura

[Rizpah]

Hi, Welcome Laura!
My experience is that these are newer drugs. Lexapro is typically given at HS - need to watch it's use with male pts with BPH, Effexor is nasty with side effects (I have some friends that had a difficult time tapering off when med was to be changed due to lack of effectiveness, jitteriness, like they wanted to jump out of their skin). Cymbalta, we haven't had any major problems with it.
I also check the drug reference book in regard to antidepressants for EPS listed as a potential side effect, if it is, we do a DISCUS on the pt just as if they were receiving an antipsychotic. This has been backed up by our RPh consultant. Maybe check with your pharmacist that serves your facility?

[Diane-RN Student]

I'm not sure about Cymbalta or Effexor, but I've had first hand experience with Lexapro.

I was on it for about 5 months... I had to get off of it because of the awful sexual side effects. Getting off it was really hard. I was taking 10 mg qd, then I had to taper off slowly. It took me about 1 1/2 months to finally get off of it totally. The withdrawal sx can be brutal!

I'm not taking any antidepressants now. I am exercising and eating right, and I feel great. Don't think I'll ever venture down the "antidepressant road" again. For me, there are better alternatives

I hope this was helpful.

Best,
Diane

[kstec]

I first hand know about Lexapro and Effexor. Lexapro for me is wonderful. I suffer from anxiety and seasonal depression so I take the Lexapro. I have had no side effects. The Effexor on the other hand caused me to have a couple days of mania. I couldn't sleep and my pupils were like pinholes. I don't sugget that to anyone who is remotely sensitive to medications, which I am. Cymbalta, I do not know anything about.