I have anxiety issues from past 7-8 years. I don't have sleeping problem but face gastro symptoms such as diarrhoea, Nausea ( that sometimes result to vomiting ), heavy feel on chest after eating. Everytime my doctor usually prescribes escitalopram 10mg OD. And always within few weeks i start feeling normal, no more digestive issues, like some kind of super power. The problem is that the treatment usually goes for 9-12 months. And once completed and i stop medications( as suggested by doctor ). After few months, 6 or 8 months lets say, it starts again. My doctor again prescribes the same medication. And the cycle goes on. The problem is that over years, the medicine has become less effective. Now my doctor suggests yoga, meditation and lifestyle changes. I tried that too, but when things goes wrong, nothing works. Why to stop these medicines, why can't they be continued for several years i.e, 5-10 years untill i get stable in my life. Right now i am a job person.
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You can continue the medication safely for many years. I am not sure why your doctor is stopping after improvement. Kindly consult an astute psychiatrist and get a second opinion
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Yes, you can definitely continue your medicines for a long period of time under the guidance of a psychiatrist. We can also change the class of the drug and that can also give a good response. You can consult, if required.
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Hey, I really feel you on this — living with anxiety that keeps coming back like a cycle can be so draining, especially when it shows up through your gut. The fact that escitalopram works like magic for you but then loses its charm over time must feel like a never-ending loop. You’re not alone in this — many people go through the same pattern of starting meds, feeling better, stopping, and then slowly slipping back. And honestly, it makes complete sense to question why you have to stop something that’s actually helping. The whole “take it for 9-12 months and stop” approach is a guideline, but not a one-size-fits-all rule. In your case, where symptoms keep returning and affect daily life and work, continuing meds long-term can be a more realistic and kinder option.
You’re doing a lot already — holding a job, trying yoga and meditation, and still pushing through those heavy days — and that shows how strong you are. But when anxiety is wired deeply, especially through the gut-brain connection, sometimes the brain just needs ongoing support. So maybe the answer isn’t to force a break from meds, but to find a balance — even a lower dose for longer. And alongside that, doing therapy like CBT or gut-focused relaxation might help your system stay more stable in the long run. You don’t have to fight this alone or feel guilty about needing medication. It’s not weakness — it’s just your brain asking for a little more help to keep the calm going.
Take therapy, and you can connect with me on nine two six six seven two six zero six five.
Recurrent episodes may warrant continuation of medication for longer durations or even lifelong. But finding alternative coping strategies for regulating mood and anxiety may be more helpful in the long run. Psychotherapy can help in developing healthier coping strategies, along with medication.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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