Taking Cipralex for stres. Safe to take herbal remedy like Kalms?
Patient: Hello,yes I am currently taking 20mg of Cipralex each day and although I was initially prescribed these for anxiety issues,I am finding that my stress is a major difficulty for me right noe. I was wondering if a herbal remedy such as Kalms would be safe to take? I had considered Passionflower,but as I experience periods of depression ,I am concerned about the possible sedative effects?? Doctor: hello  welcome to health care magic  Cipralex contains escitalopram which is an SSRI i.e. antidepressant.  It can also be used in depression with anxiety. I advise you to continue cipralex as told by your doctor as it takes 10-14 days to have a full effect and you should take the drug for few months or even more as advised.  You can take herbal remedies like kalms and passion flower but discuss all the stuff with your treating doctor. You can also undertake psychotherapy/counselling sessions and relaxation exercises.  Hope it helps Good Luck Regards Dr. Gourav Monga Consultant Psychiatrist