As for your questions about Lexapro...
I have not had much experience with this particular drug, but I did gather together some important information:
- Lexapro was initially approved to treat Major Depressive Disorder, and later cited in the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, not Panic Disorder.
- Lexapro, like Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft, is an SSRI and affects the body's reaction to and production of the neurotransmitter serotonin.
- 10mg per day is the recommended starting dose, and it should be taken once a day with a full 8oz glass of water at the same time every day.
- Full effects may take 4-6 weeks, while partial effects may be felt within 1-2 weeks.
- Do not take if taking an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor).
- Do not double doses. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible, BUT, if you are close to the time of your next dose, just take the next dose, and don't take the one you missed.
- It is strongly recommended that you do not drink alcohol while taking Lexapro.
- Pay careful attention to the side effects listed in the informational pamphlets included with the medication and by your doctor, as medicine affects everyone differently.
- Adverse events can occur upon the discontinuation of the drug, especially when abrupt.
As I stated before
Prozac and
Paxil are the two most highly recommended drugs for the treatment of Panic Disorder. Zoloft has also been used.
Again, the most successful treatment of Panic Disorder is the Cognitive-Behavioural treatment method. Check out these websites for more information:
http://www.apa.org/pubinfo/panic.html
http://www.apa.org/videos/4310420.html
http://www.apa.org/videos/4310260.html
http://helping.apa.org/therapy/panic.html
http://www.apa.org/