I would like to know more about whether this treatment is appropriate for me and what the side effects are.

Question

I have written about this before, I don't know if it will happen again. I was recently prescribed cipralex for burnout at work and for periods of acute stress during my spouse's alcohol relapses. I am generally very cheerful and feel good. However, I am fragile to stress and I have little tolerance for it. My emotions quickly become drastic during small conflicts. I feel almost ready to go back to work without medication at this time. Cipralex scares me for the side effects. I am worried about losing my joy peaks and sexual function. Right now I am only on 5mg and my doctor was telling me we shouldn't go higher than 10mg. I am wondering if the medication is necessary for me. Hello! No, I have never had this type of treatment in the past. Yes, I discussed it with my doctor. She told me that we were trying it in small doses for these reasons.

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Hello ma'am, have you ever had a treatment in the past? Have you discussed your concerns with your doctor? Thank you for the feedback. I cannot comment on whether this product is appropriate for you as your doctor and pharmacist are best placed to do so. The most common side effects reported with Cipralex include nausea and headache, but these are usually mild and temporary. Starting at a low dose and gradually increasing the dose may help reduce the extent of these effects, if they occur. Sexual dysfunction is also a side effect but is more rarely reported. Finally, I would like to mention that cognitive-behavioural therapy (with a psychologist or psychotherapist) in addition to pharmacological treatment may be more effective than the medication alone. I will remain available if you have any further questions! Tom Samaha, pharmacist