I have bipolar II disorder, anxiety disorder, and agoraphobia. Is Paroxetine a good option?

Question

Hi doctor,

I want to know some treatment options for my conditions. I have bipolar disorder II with social and generalized anxiety. I have panic attacks and agoraphobia due to it. Previously, I was taking Escitalopram, Venlafaxine, Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Lithium, Depakote, Quetiapine, Risperidone, and Anxiolytics. Venlafaxine was effective but I discontinued using it as it caused high blood pressure. But other treatments did not help me. Anxiolytics showed good results. But now I do not have other options to continue taking this treatment as I am getting used to Tranxene.

Currently, I am taking Lamictal 200 mg and Olanzapine 10 mg. Constantly, I feel alarmed, nervous, and anxious. I am not able to eat due to a lump present in my throat. Anxiety is debilitating and I am unable to work outside my home. During work, I get anxious and so I have to take some leave from my work. If I am not doing it, I vomit from anxiety. Will Duloxetine be effective? Can I have an increased pulse rate and blood pressure due to it? Will Esticalopram help me and how long will it take to show its effects? Can Prozac help with anxiety? Will Paroxetine be a good option?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You can continue taking medications that keep your condition stable at present. Duloxetine is a good option for you and it will not increase your blood pressure. Escitalopram takes around four weeks to show its full effect after starting this medication. Prozac can decrease anxiety but it belongs to the same group as Escitalopram. Paroxetine is a good anti-anxiety medication but Esticalopram is better than Paroxetine. You can follow these measures to reduce your anxiety.

Do exercise daily for 30 to 45 minutes like walking. Do meditation for 20 minutes daily. Eat healthy home-cooked foods and avoid taking junk foods. Spend some quality time with your friends and family daily. Spend some time on your creative hobbies like writing books, writing journals, drawing, learning new skills or language or musical instruments. Have a good sleep of seven to eight hours daily. Avoid taking tobacco or alcohol or any substance abuse. Live your life and do not spend it. Be bold and confident.