Celexa - been on for several years - long term use - any thoughts?

flip71 · 07-10-2008, 06:27 PM

My anxiety has decreased dramatically. My patience has also increased dramatically. Those were two of my biggest issues (severe anxiety and no patience) prior to taking Celexa.

In the last year, however, I have noticed a large increase in weight, increase in appetite, and increase in exhaustion. I cannot sleep enough. I am always tired. I sometimes think the exhaustion has a lot to do with the weight gain but some of my exhaustion could be due to the medication. Also note, in the last year, I have not worked (fired in 8/07) and I have had a severe foot injury 2 1/2 years ago requiring PT for those years and 2 surgeries in the last 1 1/2 yrs. I assume some exhaustion could be due to lack of physical activity.

I stopped therapy 3 months ago due to lack of finances. My internist suggests adding wellbutrin in the AM or to come off Celexa completely once I start working (she thinks the firing, subsequent unemployment, and foot problems are the major issues causing these new problems).

What have been others experiences with long term use of Celexa (20mg)?

Anxious Annie · 07-10-2008, 06:42 PM

I took Celexa for a few years, gained a BUNCH of weight, but easily switched to Luvox with no issues at all.

I've since then switched from Luvox to Lexapro with no issues and have been able to come off of Lexapro with minimal issues (weird head feeling, but that's nothing compared to what other's experience). All in all, I've been on meds for over 8 years and it was just time. I was able to lose 1/2 the weight I put on and since I was probably underweight anyway when I started, I'm where I probably should be now compared to my height.

I think the key is to do it SLOWLY. It's taken me 18 months to get off of them. That may be excessive, but plan on at least a couple if not a few months to wean off. And ALWAYS do it under your doctor's care!

flip71 · 07-10-2008, 07:10 PM

Annie
I appreciate your response. I am glad to hear someone else gained so much weight because many claim you lose weight on this. I think I will wean off with doctor's care when I start working. Right now, I don't want to jump into anything new until I get finances and employment in order. I think my unemployment starting one year ago contributed to a large part of my new 'issues' and I need to get that issue back in order.
Thanks again.

Anxious Annie · 07-10-2008, 07:29 PM

Someone once told me to wait about 6 months AFTER you start to get things in control before taking the plunge. I think it's a good rule of thumb. I made the mistake before of thinking I was ready when I wasn't.

My pdoc told me they weren't sure if the meds actually mess with your metabolism OR is it just that you are feeling better and not worrying so much that subconsciously, you aren't watching what you eat and maybe aren't as active. I put on about 40 lbs myself.

But, it is smart to do it under a doctor's care and do it at your own pace! I think that's MOST important

flip71 · 07-10-2008, 07:33 PM

I put on 40 lb myself as well but I guarantee some of it has to do with my foot issues. I was in casts for months and I am sedentary now because I cannot do anything without my foot brace. Even with it, I cannot walk for more than a half hour.

I suppose it is best to wait for several months once I start working again before making such a major change. I am actually looking forward to working...now, if someone would just hire me.