I’ve been prescribed Lexapro (escitalopram) 10 mg to take in the morning and Xanax 0.5 mg three times a day. I struggle with severe health anxiety (including symptoms like heart palpitations, dizziness, and many others), panic attacks, and generalized anxiety disorder.
Has anyone here used these medications and felt an improvement in their panic attacks, health anxiety, or general anxiety? I’m starting this treatment today and would love to hear if anyone has had positive experiences with these medications.
I’ve taken those medications, and they did help reduce my anxiety a bit. However, keep in mind that Lexapro, like most antidepressants, can take up to six weeks to fully take effect, and sometimes even longer. So, it’s important to be patient during that time. Xanax will provide quicker relief, but taking 0.5 mg three times a day could make you feel sleepy. I can’t even take 0.5 mg once without getting drowsy, but if you have a higher tolerance for medications, you might be fine. If it feels too much, let your doctor know.
Also, don’t drive while on Xanax because of its sedative effect—I know someone who nearly drove off the road because of it.
If you don’t feel better after about six weeks, it might be worth discussing with your doctor, as sometimes it takes trying different antidepressants to find the right one. Everyone’s body responds differently to medication, so it’s often a process of trial and error. I hope you start feeling better soon!
Thank you for your response, Jan. I took my first dose of Xanax 3 hours ago, and I definitely feel very sleepy. My body feels slowed down, like it’s operating at about 60%, and I’m a bit mentally foggy, like everything is moving slower around me. I also feel some relief—about 20-30%—but I was at a 10/10 anxiety level, and now I’d say I’m at a 6 or 7/10. I’m starting Lexapro tomorrow.
How long did you use Xanax? I’ve seen some posts about withdrawal symptoms and it’s making me a bit nervous. I’ve read that it can be pretty tough, so I’m wondering about your experience with it.
I’ve been taking Klonopin for a longer period. Xanax tends to make me sleepy. Everyone reacts differently to these medications. I’m allergic to escitalopram—nothing too serious, but it doesn’t agree with me. However, I’ve heard a lot of positive things about Lexapro from others.