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What Causes Persistent Anxiety Despite Taking Medication?

Posted on Wed, 3 Aug 2016

Question: I have had anxiety for many years due to numerous tramatic events in my life. I have been on many antidepressants through the years. I have been on Prosac for about 3 months, but think it's not working. For about 2 weeks I have been more isolated and don't want to leave the couch. I cry a lot and don't have an appetite. I seem to dwell on past events. I am 65 and retired in 2007.

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.

I'm sorry you are not feeling well. Here are my thoughts.

I wonder what dose of Prozac you are taking. If it is less than 80mg, your continued anxiety and low mood clearly call for an increase in the dosage. It may be that Prozac is altogether ineffective for you, and you may need to switch to a different antidepressant. Can you list the antidepressants you have taken, so that I can make a new recommendation for you? Another possibility is psychotherapy, which is as effective as medications. I do offer text-based therapy via my private link on this site, which I will paste below.

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (28 hours later)

I take 40mg of Prozac. I have taken many antidepressants over the years. I don't remember all. I've taken Cymbalta, Wellbutrin, Effexor and others. I've seen a new one advertised, but don't remember the name. My doctor put mr on another med that you take with antidepressant, but I had many side effects. Involantartary body jerks and increased anxiety.

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Followup

Detailed Answer:
You could consider transitioning to Pristiq, a newer antidepressant, or Viibryd, another newer antidepressant. These are generally very well-tolerated with few side effects.

Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T