Please or to access all these features

Mental health

Mumsnet hasn't checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you have medical concerns, please seek medical attention.

Escitalopram/Lexapro, has anyone tried this?

5 replies

BorntoDillyDally · 14/03/2025 10:03

I really need to take some antidepressants to help me get through a really shitty period of my life. For the last five years, I've been helping to care for my mum who has Alzheimer's, it's only going to get worse and as someone with ADHD and a naturally very anxious person I'm not coping at all atm.

The problem is that every bit of stress goes to my digestive system so I am also having to deal with an upset tummy every day (had loads of tests at the hospital and concluded it's 'just' IBS and functional dyspepsia).

I've tried Citalopram and Sertraline but they made my gut issues worse. My GP has prescribed me Escitalopram, 5mg and she agreed that I could cut them in half and go in low and slow in the hope of avoiding any nasty side effects.

I know this is my anxiety talking but I'm still petrified to try, I don't want my stomach even more upset or to feel weird and spaced out or worse for it to disrupt my sleep (sleep is my only joy right now).

Has anyone tried this drug?

OP posts:
Fishfingersandcustard1 · 14/03/2025 14:06

I currently take Escitalopram and for me it’s been a massive help. I was really apprehensive about taking it and worried about the initial side effects but they only lasted a few weeks and I didn’t find them as difficult to cope with compared to citalopram. X

ohfourfoxache · 14/03/2025 14:09

I’m on it - it’s really good

AlannaOfTrebond · 14/03/2025 14:23

I've been on it for 15 years and never had any problems.

Currently in the process of switching to Sertraline as Escitalopram is contraindicated for another medication I need and not loving the side effects - never had them with Escitalopram!

LeaveALittleNote · 14/03/2025 14:25

I’m on it. Big help for me.

BorntoDillyDally · 14/03/2025 17:41

Thank you everyone. I am going to try them tonight.

OP posts:
New posts on this thread. Refresh page