Restlessness and Agitation Related to Medications
Clinical psychologist Dr Joseph M Carver, PhD, offers replies to reader questions submitted anonymously to Ask the Psychologist.
Reader’s Question
I am a woman and I am 47 years old. I used Motival for 25 years and went off the Motival 2 months ago. Motival is off the market in South Africa. I am using Cipralex for the last 2 months but still feel agitated and restless. What do you think I should do?
Thank you.
Our Consulting Clinical Psychologist’s Reply
Agitation and restlessness can come from several sources. It can be related to your psychological state — being anxious, apprehensive, worried, etc. It can also be related to your medications.
Motival was a combination medication — part antipsychotic and part tricyclic antidepressant. With most antipsychotic medications, you run the risk of “akesthesia” — uncontrollable restlessness. It’s like a constant state of I-gotta-be-moving. I’ve heard reports of agitation and restlessness associated with Cipralex (Lexapro) as well…as a side effect.
I’d bet you’re receiving your medications from a family MD or OB/GYN. If so, your best bet is to consult a psychiatrist. I suspect you’re experiencing a medication reaction or side effect. A psychiatrist is better trained to eliminate side effects and use medications in combinations.
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