I have leg restlessness, tiredness, and sleepiness altogether. Why is it so?

Question

Hi doctor,

I feel my legs are restless and lack energy. I am feeling tired with frequent yawning and sleepiness in daytime. Sometimes, I feel nervous and vertigo while walking. Please suggest a medicine. I had Escitalopram 10 mg bd, but it did not work well. My other medication list is attached for your reference.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The symptoms described by you are symptoms of depression which are due to low dopamine levels. Escitalopram increases serotonin levels and there is a dopamine deficit remaining in most patients. My advice would be to add Bupropion (Bupron XL) 150 mg to existing drugs. You can make it 300 mg after a week if necessary. Do not stop Escitalopram. This should make you feel fresh and energetic. If your leg restlessness remains, ask your physician if you can take a beta blocker along with current medicine. Take care.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The duration of treatment for depression is decided by number of episodes, severity of depression, family history, etc. If it is your second episode, I will advice treatment for two years. It is avoided in patients with epilepsy. As you do not have epilepsy, it is safe for long-term use. You should take Bupropion as long as you are taking Escitalopram. Thank you.