Lexapro side effects prompt search for natural alternative

Q: I am an anxious person and don't handle stressful situations very well. My doctor prescribed Lexapro, but it made me very nauseated. I woke up in a deep sweat with my heart racing.

I know there are other drugs, but I am concerned about side effects. Are there any natural alternatives that won't produce side effects?

A: Lexapro can cause nausea, sweating and palpitations. Drowsiness, headache and sexual difficulties have been reported.

Finding a natural approach for anxiety may be a challenge. Physicians used to rely on a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which includes drugs like Ativan (lorazepam), Valium (diazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam). These can help reduce anxiety, but they also can be habit-forming.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is one approach that does not require medications. You may want to ask your physician for a referral.

Herbs such as valerian and passionflower have sometimes been used to help control nervousness.

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Q: I've read about drinking tonic water to prevent waking with leg cramps.

A: Try coconut water instead! It is the best stuff for leg cramps. I buy the Zico brand. Eleven ounces gives me lots of potassium.

When we looked this new product up online, we discovered that, in addition to health food stores, several major chains carry it as well. We appreciate your testimonial. We remind other readers, though, that too much coconut water might be constipating.

Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist and Teresa Graedon is an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition. www.peoplespharmacy.com