HomeAnswersPsychiatryanxiety disorderWhich drug is the best for anxiety disorder, Trintellix or Cipralex?

Will Cipralex prescribed for anxiety disorder cause manic episode?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Vinodhini J.

Published At December 31, 2019
Reviewed AtOctober 17, 2022

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and was given Trintellix 10 mg. I took it for two weeks it helped with anxiety attacks but made me nervous about every emotion or feeling I felt. My mother has bipolar disorder and health anxiety and I think I have health anxiety too. I am worried that I might get bipolar disorder. So I was constantly checking when on Trintellix for any signs of mania. Even though I have never had any manic episodes, I also would shake and have a racing heart so I would get so scared. Which was causing me nervousness? I could not even judge if the drug was working. My doctor switched me to Cipralex but I am afraid to take it and the same thing happens to me. I also have intrusive thoughts sometimes and I feel stuck. Not sure what to do or what medication would be my best bet? I am also on Clonazepam 0.5 at night to help me sleep.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It looks like you are experiencing significant anxiety. I note that you are weaning off Trintellix 10 mg and are you are in a dilemma about starting Cipralex (Escitalopram) due to concerns about side effects like developing mania. Since your anxiety appears quite significant it is best managed by a combination of medication and psychological therapy like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy).

Cipralex is an effective medication in this situation. Remember that it will take at least two weeks for your body to get used to the medication and in this period some may experience nervousness, agitation, etc. It generally settles down and you will see full therapeutic benefit from around four to six weeks. So medication is worth a try and have regular follow up reviews with your psychiatrist as advised. You can take Cipralex long term till anxiety is better. Clonazepam 0.5 mg is meant to be taken for the short term only, ideally less than four weeks to prevent developing dependence.

In addition to medication, consider CBT to develop psychological strategies to manage anxiety. Regular exercise also helps. Maintain a good sleep schedule. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks.

I hope this helps.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Suresh Kumar G D
Dr. Suresh Kumar G D

Pediatrics

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