Crosswords1 min ago
lethagy
4 Answers
I have been on Cipralex for the last six weeks and feel alot better but constantly exhasted, my doc has told me this is not due to the tabs and advised me to have a blood test checking for thyroid and diabetis pros. Do you agree it cannot be the medication?
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As far as I know (Escitalopram oxalate) Cipralex is commonly known as an anti-depressant.....It's a SSRI (serotonin specific reuptake inhibitor) and is contraindicated for patients with liver and kidney conditions, those with epilepsy and diabetes.
The known side effects are as follows: nausea, diarrhoea/constipation, decreased appetite; loss of libido (women), ejaculation problems and impotence; insomnia, dizziness; sinusitis; increased sweating; yawning; fatigue; high temperature. Hypersensitivity reactions and rashes may also occur.
It would seem to me having previously worked in medical marketing field that your doc may have been slightly hasty to dismiss the possibility of the Cipralex as a cause of your tiredness as it is a listed side effect but DON'T stop taking the medication but discuss this further.
If you need further info then read the drug update sheet with your medication or find more info online
It is for Depression and illness' such like.
With every drug I have tried in this catagory - virtually all of them made me very tired and I could sleep for a whole night and day without realising. If you are unhappy with your doctor then change. I recently changed practices because my doc wasn't very sypathetic and thought I was 'putting it on'. I have now found a great doc who is very helpfull.
This is one that is difficult to get a good answer for easily, but consider these things:
1. Insomnia and difficulty sleeping are far more common side effects of cipralex than sedation as you describe.
2. Cipralex is not a drug you should stop without instruction from a/your Doctor under ANY circumstances.
3. Even if the drug is causing these problems, it may be that you and your Dr decide this is less of a problem than whatever it is you are being treated for.
4. Most side effects from drugs in this family subside over time and are most notable during the first month (the manufacturers and your Dr know this). Indeed, this group of drugs is known to make you feel worse during the first 3-4 weeks.
5. Would blaming the medication make you feel better? Really?
6. If there turns out to be another problem underlying as the Dr suggests, it's treatment and the physiacal imrovements you feel may improve your mental state greatly.
7. Are you taking the drug in the morning? If not, do so. Although there are no hard and fast rules for this drug, I always advise my patients to do this, as if your sleep is disturbed by the drug, you will feel more tired the next day.
In summary, it could be your medication, but that is not a reason to just stop. Have the tests and give it time. Review things with your Dr when the results are in. Meanwhile, exercise lightly, avoid caffiene in the afternoon, drink in moderation only and ensure your bedroom is comforatble. If you can, when you do feel tired - have a sleep. Never hurt anyone.
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