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Postpartum anxiety/insomnia & meds

kenfw89kenfw89 member
in Postpartum Depression
Hello, I developed pretty bad postpartum anxiety/insomnia and I think some depression as well around 3 months post partum. My doctor put me on Cipralex (an antidepressant/SSRI) but warned me it takes a few weeks to work, and it can actually make anxiety/insomnia worse at first. He prescribed me 2 weeks worth of Ativan to help with those first couple weeks until the cipralex kicks in.

I’m nervous about Ativan as I know it’s a Benzo and can be addicting. Do you think I could become addicted after 2 weeks of daily use? (1 mg)

does anyone have any positive stories about antidepressants/SSRIs helping their anxiety/depression/insomnia? 

Thank you! 
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Re: Postpartum anxiety/insomnia & meds

  • knottie289d80052160882aknottie289d80052160882a member
    You’re not alone! I’m pregnant, but I’ve taken the SSRI Zoloft on and off since age 23. I also take one called Trazodone that helps with sleep. I started after bad anxiety/depression/insomnia in college. They saved me by helping me finally sleep. I have gone off them twice, but both times, after 3-8 months, I got depressed again. I’m still taking them. They will help you. However, some drugs cause weight gain. Research if your drug does. I previously took two different ones that led to gradual weight gain, which worsened my self-esteem. If yours causes weight gain, I advise switching as soon as is prudent.
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  • kenfw89kenfw89 member
    edited January 2024
    Thanks so much for your reply. It’s been 11 days on Cipralex and I’m starting to feel less anxious during the days, but the night time anxiety and insomnia is still really bad. Hoping that resolves asap. I started taking Zopiclone instead of Ativan to help sleep (essentially a sleeping pill) but this is only temporary. 

    I have read a ton about trazodone helping sleep. Do you find it helps you fall AND stay asleep? What dosage do you take and can it be taken long term? 

    Thanks again 
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