HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Suggest Treatment For Depression Along With Insomnia And Anxiety

Two months ago I was taken off Estrogen 2mg which I d been taking since 1991 after I had a full Hysterectomy due to a large fibroid, heavy bleeding and endometriosis. During the time I was on Estrogen I had no problems with blood clots, high blood pressure or breast cancer. I had the Hysterectomy when I was 50yrs and I m now 73yrs. At the moment I m depressed, not sleeping and anxious. I don t want to go on an anti- depressant.
Wed, 2 Aug 2023
Report Abuse
Anesthesiologist 's  Response
Hello,

Estrogen withdrawal causes symptoms like depression, anxiety and difficulty in sleeping. Using estrogen is not really safe because it leads to a high risk of getting deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and stroke. Instead you can use a very low dose antidepressant.

My suggestions are as follows:
1) Usually, 2–6 weeks of anti-depressants at a therapeutic-dose level are needed to observe a clinical response.
2) Take tab. Lexapro 10mg once daily for 2 weeks and then you can increase it to 20 mg per day.
3) It is an antidepressant that is well tolerated.
4) Onset of depression relief may occur after 1-2 week, but individual responses vary, and a full effect may not be seen until 8-12 weeks.
5) Daily meditation for 5 mins a day is recommended.
6) Physical exercise for atleast 30 min a day is helpful battle with anxiety.
7) Spending more time with kids and pets also helps in reducing anxiety and improves the mood.

If you don't see any effect even after 3-4 weeks, you can consult a psychiatrist in person for further evaluation.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Pallavi M., Anesthesiologist
I find this answer helpful

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
Suggest Treatment For Depression Along With Insomnia And Anxiety

Hello, Estrogen withdrawal causes symptoms like depression, anxiety and difficulty in sleeping. Using estrogen is not really safe because it leads to a high risk of getting deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and stroke. Instead you can use a very low dose antidepressant. My suggestions are as follows: 1) Usually, 2–6 weeks of anti-depressants at a therapeutic-dose level are needed to observe a clinical response. 2) Take tab. Lexapro 10mg once daily for 2 weeks and then you can increase it to 20 mg per day. 3) It is an antidepressant that is well tolerated. 4) Onset of depression relief may occur after 1-2 week, but individual responses vary, and a full effect may not be seen until 8-12 weeks. 5) Daily meditation for 5 mins a day is recommended. 6) Physical exercise for atleast 30 min a day is helpful battle with anxiety. 7) Spending more time with kids and pets also helps in reducing anxiety and improves the mood. If you don t see any effect even after 3-4 weeks, you can consult a psychiatrist in person for further evaluation. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Pallavi M., Anesthesiologist