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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Changing The Dosage Of Medicines For Bipolar Cause Massive Headaches?

Was on 450 mg along with lexapro 10 mg for bi polar felt extremely tired lack of energy dr put me on 300 mg and upped lexapro to 20 mg. had massive headache for several days can this be cause of med change? Also nothing we have tried has helped me get out of my depression ...
Wed, 26 Aug 2015
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries

I can understand your concern. Most of medicines used in mood disorders or bipolar disorders cause changes at receptor levels and thus result in therapeutic effects. So when abrupt dose adjustments are done individuals suffer side effects and withdrawal effects. The doses were reduced to 300 mg from 450 mg abruptly and also doses of Escitalopram were doubled. Both these factors contributed to the side effects and you are having massive headaches. In my opinion wait for reduction of symptoms and if symptoms become worse consult your doctor for treatment. Medicines like Naproxen or Propranolol can help to provide relief from headache. Consult your psychiatrist for evaluation.

Thanks, Hope this helps you. Take care.

Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi,
Psychiatrist
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Can Changing The Dosage Of Medicines For Bipolar Cause Massive Headaches?

Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries I can understand your concern. Most of medicines used in mood disorders or bipolar disorders cause changes at receptor levels and thus result in therapeutic effects. So when abrupt dose adjustments are done individuals suffer side effects and withdrawal effects. The doses were reduced to 300 mg from 450 mg abruptly and also doses of Escitalopram were doubled. Both these factors contributed to the side effects and you are having massive headaches. In my opinion wait for reduction of symptoms and if symptoms become worse consult your doctor for treatment. Medicines like Naproxen or Propranolol can help to provide relief from headache. Consult your psychiatrist for evaluation. Thanks, Hope this helps you. Take care. Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi, Psychiatrist