Lexapro and triptans....

Are there any contradictions? or some of you are taking both of it - a triptan, for example sumatriptan, and Lexa without any adverse side effects?

Risa

The worry about combining triptans and SSRIs (Paxil, Lexapro, Prozac, etc.) is the potential for seratonin syndrome. Here the Wikipedia link. However, since you're such a good researcher, I'm probably not telling you something you don't already know.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serotonin_syndrome

I have taken an SSRI off and on for several years. I take Maxalt too. Since both are prescribed by the same doctor, she is aware I am taking both. She doesn't seem concerned although as we well know, doctors can be careless or wrong.

My pharmacist does worry about it though and he always brings it up.

Have I had any problems taking both? Not that I'm aware of. But I could be doing damage I'm not aware of until it's too late. I have not had any of the symptoms that are supposed to indicate serotonin syndrome, but I do wonder if I'm gambling.

I don't know what the frequency of serotonin syndrome is among patients who take both SSRIs and triptans. I think it would be worth my peace of mind to do some research. I always do better when I know what I'm facing, even if it's bad.


Chris

Thank you Chris.

That's why I am asking about personal experience, as the fact of SSRI and triptans not supposed to be combined is well known.
yet some doctors prescribe both, as in the case of my friend, and seem to be unconcerned.
So, whom to believe?
That's why I wanted to hear from you guys, as I appreciate your input very much.

Risa

What if. like me, we're not having symptoms associated with serotonin syndrome but are damaging ourselves? That, I'm worried about. Unfortunately I don't think I'll find the numbers I'm looking for. If I had a valid percentage of the frequency of migraineurs who have serotonin syndrome from combining triptans and SSRIs, I could decide if I'm taking an acceptable risk.

Chris

I take two SSRI's (cymbalta and celexa) and use two triptans (imitrex and maxalt). Used them for years. I've discussed serotonin syndrome with my doctors but neither seem concerned. My pharmacist is not happy with me...and gives me the warning leaflets everytime he fills my scripts.

Is it actually causing any harm? I don't know...but to me it's worth the risk.