Lexapro (escitalopram) is a key in of antidepressant medication known as aselective serotonin reuptake inhibitoror SSRI.
At a Glance
If your doctor has prescribed Lexapro, you might wonder what you should expect.
The good news is that these side effects usually fade as your body gets used to taking the medication.
Daniel Grill / Getty Images
Your First Week on Lexapro
You may experience side effects during the first week of treatment.
These side effects will likely dissipate after your first one to two weeks of taking the medication.
If they persist longer, talk to your care provider.
They may adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication altogether.
Common Lexapro Side Effects
It’s important to remember that side effects are normal and even expected.
Roughly 75% of people takingantidepressant medicationsexperience some key in of side effects.
If you notice any other effects, check with your care provider.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
The following drugs have been known to interact with Lexapro and should be used with caution.
Warfarin has the potential to interact with several differenttypes of antidepressants.
Talk to your physician before taking NSAIDs such as Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen).
Serotonergic Medication
Serotonin syndrome is a dangerous complication caused byexcessive serotonin levels.
In other words, they can be annoying at first, but they can be managed fairly easily.
If you want to deviate from your treatment plan for any reason, talk with a healthcare provider first.
They can help you make changes that provide the desired results without negatively impacting your treatment outcome.
Use As Directed
Always follow your doctor’s directions when taking Lexapro.
The usual recommended daily dosage is 10 milligrams (mg).
Doses higher than 20 mg are not approved by the FDA.
Ask them or a pharmacist if you have any questions about this medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
In that case,don’t double up.
Just skip the missed dose and make plans to take your next dose as usual.
Tapering your medication slowly allows your body to adjust and minimizes the risk of withdrawal effects.
Your physician may decide to adjust your dosage or switch you to another medication entirely.
If you do, alert your physician.
You should never stop or change the dosage of your medication on your own.
Remember to consult your healthcare provider any time youre unsure about any symptoms you experience while taking any medication.
Most of the time, particularly in the case of antidepressants, other medication options are available.
These generally start to subside as your body begins to get used to the medicine.
Talk with your physician if you’re concerned about any side effects you may be experiencing.
Most side effects start to go away after the first week of taking Lexapro.
Your dosage may need to be adjusted or you may need to change medications.
If overdose is suspected, contact 911 or seek immediate medical attention.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Escitalopram (marketed as Lexapro) information.
National Alliance on Mental Illness.Escitalopram (Lexapro).
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.Risk factors, protective factors, and warning signs.
2018;64(10):720-727.
Talton CW.Serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity.Fed Pract.
2020;19(2):214-232. doi:10.1002/wps.20765
National Library of Medicine.Escitalopram.
University of Michigan Health.Escitalopram.
