Re: Does your bodyweight make a difference with Dosage?
Originally Posted by
bigmo
She mentioned as I'm a big bloke (over 20 stone) I would probably need the higher dosage.
ADs don't have a direct affect on anxiety, or depression. They work by stimulating the growth of new brain cells which provide the therapeutic response. Weight is only a minor consideration. The more important factor is how quickly the med is metabolised.
Another factor may be the severity of the disorder, at least this is the case in mice. Drug levels in the brains of mice with a susceptibility for depression are typically 3-5 times higher than in controls given the same dose. It seems to be very much the case that antidepressants have few if any effects on those without a disorder beyond maybe provoking side-effects. Mostly the drug just ends up down the 'S' bend.
I mentioned when previously u sing citralopram I was on 40mg so I'm wondering whether she's gone for the equivalent escitalopram Dosage
That is a more likely reason. Celexa (citalopram) is made up of two isomers, the 'S' form of citalopram, aka escitalopram, which is the active component, and a 'R' mirror image form which is a poorer fit biologically and so is mostly inactive. Lexapro (escitalopram) is more refined and only contains the 'S' isomer which is why the dose is half that of citalopram. Another factor to be aware of higher dose are often needed the second time on a med, and the side-effects can be different than the first time too.
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The opinions expressed above are based on my observations and, where applicable, interpretation of cited data and are general in nature. Consult your physician before acting on anything stated.