Managing Panic Attacks: My Experience with Lexapro, Pristiq, Topamax, Wellbutrin, and Abilify

Since I started having panic attacks, I’ve been using medication to help me cope and function in life. The first medication I was put on was called Lexapro. For the most part, I was okay on this medication; however, during sexual activity, it would not permit me to finish, especially at a higher dose. Due to this issue, I was moved to a new medication called Pristiq. This medication is similar to Lexapro but is said to have fewer sexual side effects. I’m not sure I am convinced of that yet, but I have been able to finish a few times.

As part of the ongoing process of trial and error, another medication they put me on was Topamax. This medication seemed to make me feel really emotional and sad a lot of the time. In addition to this, at the higher doses, it also prevented me from finishing during sex.

I was also given Wellbutrin, and that one seemed to make me extremely agitated and anxious. We stopped it right away.

Finally, I was given Abilify to try and take the place of the aforementioned meds we kicked to the corner, and that medication brought my aggression to a demon level. I felt that medication was unbelievable in its impact. I was overthinking everything and became suspicious of everything that was happening. It really did a number on my life for those few days that I took it. I wasn’t abusive or anything like that, but my thoughts were very negative. Everything bothered me and made me think the worst. It truly, 100% brought up the worst versions of myself that you can imagine. All from a tiny little pill. Amazing and terrifying at the same time.

Right now, I am back to only taking Pristiq, and I’m pretty much back to normal. I must tell you, those medications are really powerful, and they can affect your mood in ways you’ve never imagined. Please be careful and let your doctor know right away if your demeanor, thoughts, moods, or anything drastically changes while on any medication. The sooner you catch it, the sooner you can address it.

Good luck to you on your mental health journey. I’m right there with you.