Is it healthy to take Lexapro Anti-Depression Medicine off and on?

[alucards_mistress]

Like I dont take Lexapro daily, only on days when I feel depressed but I wonder if this is healthy because the days I take it I am unable to fall asleep at night or *cough* achieve and orgasm. I wonder if this is normal........ Lalala >>

[Emily]

It won't do anything if you take it off and on - if it makes you feel better this way its most likely a placebo effect. The purpose of this specific drug is to level out chemical imbalances in the brain. It can't do this if the drug is taken sporadically. It's not like Xantax or something you take for immediate relief from a panic-attack.

This drug, while gentler with side-effects than most anti-depressants, the major side effects people complain of are weight gain and loss of sexual desire, or inability to achieve orgasm. I know this was the case for me. Unforunately this is a side-effect for most anit-depressants, so if this is of major concern to you, you might need to "shop around" a little more with you psychiatrist before you find a drug that fits you specifically. Occasionally the doctor will prescribe an upper (such as the new drug Vyvanse, which is non-addictive, unlike it's cousin Aderrall) to combat the loss of sexual desire and general sluggishness that come with many anti-depressants.

It's really a trial and error thing to figure out what drug, or combination of drugs works best for your situation, it is definitely not a quick and easy thing as I've found out.

[S P]

That will do nothing for you. It takes 1-2 weeks for it to become effective. If it was prescribed for on a regular basis then you need to take it correctly.

[Michele]

Lexapro will do nothing when taken on and off. The effectiveness of this medication is based on blood levels established over time. If you are taking it only sporadically - don't bother. This medication must be taken daily.

If your major concern is the sexual side effects (certainly a valid complaint), request wellbutrin as an alternative. Very few people have unwanted sexual side effects with wellbutrin.

Best of luck to you in your treatment,
~M~