Stress Center Peer Support

I read on another website that cortisol (the hormone you release when you are stressed) can cause SSRI's to react badly in your body. I say this because I see a lot of postings from those struggling to get on their meds. I reacted badly at first too, in fact, I couldn't continue Cymbalta due such a negative reaction to it. Eventually I took Lexapro, and after a few rough days and nights, I got much needed relief and was happy I took it. If you are struggling, remind yourself that it may just be the reaction of chemicals and that it is only temporary. As the meds kick in, you become less anxious, less cortisol, no bad reaction. I got relief within 4 days, others may take longer. If you don't feel somewhat better within 2 weeks, I would start to question if you're on the right med. By a month, you should have considerable improvement. If not, definately time to talk to the doctor and switch. Good luck.

How long were you on Cymbalta for before you discontinued use? I just went through 6 days but it made me feel so terrible I decided to stop and try something different (CBT). Did you have any problems coming off the medication?

Hi Sean - I took the Cymbalta for 4 or 5 days but it was horrific. I was anxious and having panic attacks before it, but life was one big panic attack when I took it. I was getting maybe 2 hours a sleep a night if I was lucky, had what must have been restless legs, and felt profoundly depressed and hopeless. The Lexapro caused nausea, tiredness but not able to sleep, and backache. It was minor compared to the Cymbalta and kicked in very quickly for me. I only took it about 4 months (you should stick with it for at least 6 months if you can), and it was very easy to get off. I joked that it was easier getting off than going on. Based on what I've read on this board, it seems the longer you've been on it, the harder it is to get off. I told my doctor I wanted off and she gave me a schedule to wean off. It was easy and painless. No big breakdown or pain, anxiety or depression. Now I am med free and have good days and bad days. I finished the program in December and feel it's helped me put my anxiety in perspective and given me tools to cope. I've learned that the panic is really just a phobia of fear, which makes it less scary for me. If you're at your 'ropes end' I definately think meds can be a great first step to healing.