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SSRI and cardio issues
Escitalopram 10 mg at night causing chest tightness and throat tightness and propranolol 20mg in the morning is used to manage it. However after taking propranolol the anxiety and tensed feel increases. How to manage this trap?
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*Age of the patient, comorbity as BP, SUGAR, THYROID or other medical illness for which medications if any, history of smoking alcohol intake, dietary habit, duration of current psychiatric symptoms, treatment how many days
* Escitalopram is the medication for treating mood disorders and anxiety symptoms , tightness, throat symptoms are also one of the presentation of anxiety
* Propranolol is used to lower down autonomic symptoms associated with anxiety as HR, Palpitation, tremors, gradually this medication is tapered and main medication as Escitalopram in your case is continued
* You must make a record of your anxiety symptoms, frequency, duration, discuss it with doctor in follow up visits
* Medication dose will be adjusted as per your improvement
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Escitalopram can cause chest or throat tightness in the first 1–2 weeks. It’s a common startup effect and usually settles. Propranolol normally reduces anxiety symptoms, but in some people it can cause heaviness or a tense feeling if the dose is more than what the body needs.
This is not dangerous, but it means the medicines may need small adjustments.
Next Steps
Speak to your doctor before changing anything.
• The doctor may reduce the dose, slowly increase later, or shift the timing of the medicine based on how you feel.
• You can use the 4-7-8 breathing method during tightness episodes.
4-7-8 Breathing Technique (Simple Explanation)
1. Breathe in through the nose for 4 seconds.
2. Hold the breath for 7 seconds.
3. Slowly breathe out through the mouth for 8 seconds.
4. Repeat 4–5 times.
This helps relax the body and reduces chest/throat tightness caused by anxiety.
Health Tips
Do not stop Escitalopram suddenly.
• If propranolol makes you very tired, dizzy, or heavy, inform your doctor.
• Startup side effects usually settle in 1–2 weeks.
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Hi, Escitalopram is an antidepressant that is used to treat anxiety symptoms as well- chest tightness, throat tightness can be due to anxiety itself - or if it happens immediately after taking the pill, could be due to gastric and esophageal irritation, which happens with SSRIs like Escitalopram. You make take it after food, as it reduces such effects.
Don't worry, as these effects reduce within the initial few weeks.
If Propranolol is not helping, you may need a change of medications.
Next Steps
Consult your psychiatrist.
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Hi.. you may need adjustment of your medicines and dosages. Consult online for treatment
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Escitalopram can cause chest or throat tightness in the beginning—this is common , this will get better.
If propranolol is making you feel more anxious, it may not suit you. There might be need to change its dose or shift to another medicine.
Consult psychiatrist again either online/ offline
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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.