Common and Rare Lexapro (Escitalopram) Side Effects

Lexapro, escitalopram, treats depression ⁽¹⁾ and generalized anxiety disorder. Like any drug, it may produce negative effects. Most are moderate and transient, but others are severe and long-lasting. This page discusses Lexapro’s frequent and unusual adverse effects and variables that might worsen or prevent them.

Typical Side Effects

The main Lexapro side effects are:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Increased sweating
• Fatigue
• Nervousness
• Lack of sleep
• Restless feeling
• Decreased sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
• Symptoms of influenza

Mild and transitory symptoms seldom require medical ⁽²⁾ attention. Most individuals may tolerate them without major side effects ⁽³⁾ after the first week as their bodies adjust to the medicine. However, see your doctor if Lexapro side effects continue and create substantial concern.

Serious Side Effects and Warnings

The depression drug Lexapro can potentially produce serious side effects ⁽⁴⁾. If you notice any, please inform your doctor promptly. This includes:

• Teen and young adult suicidal ideas and conduct. Lexapro may exacerbate suicidal ideation  ⁽⁵⁾ and self-destructive conduct in people under 24, requiring regular treatment monitoring.
• Serotonin syndrome. Lexapro and other antidepressants may cause it, a serious illness. Combining Lexapro with serotonergic drugs such as tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, triptans, tryptophan, tramadol, buspirone, St. John’s Wort, and amphetamines increases this risk. If you suspect serotonin syndrome  (characterized by high fever, hypertension, rapid heart rate, dizziness, and flushing), please seek medical assistance promptly.
• Activation of mania/hypomania. To avoid mania or hypomania activation, bipolar disorder patients should be assessed before using Lexapro.
• A seizure. To avoid seizures, Lexapro should be administered cautiously to seizure-prone patients.
• Abnormal bleeding. Lexapro users on warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs, or other blood-clotting medicines should be cautious.
• Angle-closure glaucoma. If uncorrected small anterior chamber angles raise ocular pressure, Lexapro may cause angle-closure glaucoma.
• In senior people, hyponatremia (low sodium levels) may arise with SIADH syndrome.
• Impact on cognitive and motor function. Be careful driving or using machinery on Lexapro.
• Concurrent sickness. Lexapro should be used cautiously by patients with metabolic or cardiovascular diseases.
• Sexual dysfunction. Lexapro might reduce sexual desire or make orgasms harder.
• Use during pregnancy. Lexapro might cause neonatal lung and feeding issues, especially when used later in pregnancy.

Group-Specific Side Effects

Adults

Lexapro, like other SSRIs, may cause side effects in people using it for anxiety or depression ⁽⁶⁾. Headaches, nausea, dry mouth, muscular soreness, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction are common. As the body adjusts to the drug, these adverse effects may fade.

Kids and teens

Lexapro is not recommended for children under 12. It may be advised for 12–17-year-olds with serious depression. Escitalopram increases the risk of suicide in young people; thus, they must be monitored.

Breastfeeding and pregnancy

Lexapro dangers and advantages during pregnancy must be considered. Studies  ⁽⁷⁾ imply that late-pregnancy SSRIs like Lexapro may cause infant problems such as chronic pulmonary hypertension. As Lexapro goes into breast milk, it may affect breastfed infants.

Those with drug problems

Lexapro side effects and medication interactions may be more likely among those with a history of substance use disorders, especially alcohol or CNS depressants. These situations may demand attentive monitoring.

Patients on Other Drugs

Lexapro may interact with antipsychotics, painkillers, antidepressants, and herbal supplements. Patients using additional medications must inform their doctor.

People with certain illnesses

People with various medical issues may be more susceptible to Lexapro side effects. In those with a history of bleeding problems, SSRIs may increase the risk of unusual bleeding. SSRIs alone may not treat bipolar illness, causing mood swings ⁽⁸⁾ or manic episodes.

Contraindications

Lexapro should not be taken when:

• Recent usage of MAOIs. MAOIs increase serotonin syndrome risk; therefore, avoid using them with Lexapro or within 14 days of quitting it. Do not start Lexapro if using linezolid or IV methylene blue.
• Experienced hypersensitivity to escitalopram, citalopram, or any of its inactive components.
• Pimozide is an antipsychotic drug. Avoid simultaneous use.

What to Expect After Medication Stop?

Sudden Lexapro discontinuation might produce agitation, headache, nausea, flu-like symptoms, and dizziness. Its pain is generally temporary but may necessitate medical attention. Medical specialists recommend tapering off the drug gradually under their supervision to reduce withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effect Duration and Intensity Factors

Different factors affect side effec ⁽⁹⁾t duration and intensity, including:

• Dosage. Lexapro dose affects adverse reactions’ frequency and severity. Higher dosages may worsen side effects ⁽¹⁰⁾.
• Treatment duration. Extended Lexapro usage may generate different negative effects than short-term use.
  Individual variances. Each person’s body reacts differently to drugs. Certain adverse effects may be more common in some people.
• Age. Lexapro side effects might vary by age. Effects may be greater in older patients.
• Underlying health issues. Some underlying health issues may cause extra discomfort. Before taking Lexapro, discuss your medical history with your doctor.
• Other medicines. Some medications interact and increase unpleasant responses. To avoid side effects, tell your doctor about any drugs, including over-the-counter ones.
• Withdrawal. Dizziness, headache, and nausea can ensue with sudden Lexapro discontinuation. Do not stop this drug without medical advice.

Discuss any concerns or side effects ⁽¹¹⁾ of Lexapro with your doctor or pharmacist so they can determine the best course of action.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Side Effects

Contact your doctor if Lexapro causes persistent or serious adverse effects ⁽¹²⁾. This includes:

• Mood side effects may include sadness, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and strange behavior changes.
• Severe physical side effects ⁽¹³⁾, including nausea, seizures, or allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing).

Your doctor may change your prescription, suggest alternate therapies, or give supportive care. Side effects ⁽¹⁴⁾ must be managed with open discussion with your doctor.

Preventing Side Effects

Lexapro (escitalopram) side effects can be prevented in numerous ways:

• Take Lexapro as prescribed by your doctor.
• Dosage Adjustment Gradually: Your doctor may start with a low dosage and increase it.
• Taking Lexapro with meals may lessen its negative effects on the gastrointestinal system.
• Stay Hydrated: Stay hydrated, especially if experiencing dry mouth.
• Regular Monitoring: Communicate with your healthcare professional to track side effects and alter treatment ⁽¹⁵⁾.
• Avoid Alcohol: Lexapro may interact with alcohol, leading to harmful effects. Alcohol should be limited or avoided.
• Discuss concerns with your doctor if side effects are problematic.
• Discuss Potential Interactions: Inform your doctor about any prescriptions, including herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Seek medical assistance immediately if experiencing extreme side effects ⁽¹⁶⁾, such as serotonin syndrome, allergic reactions, or suicidal thoughts.

Conclusion

Lexapro helps cure anxiety ⁽¹⁷⁾ and depression, but it has adverse effects. Knowing the risks helps you prepare for and manage them. If Lexapro causes substantial discomfort or other issues, talk to your doctor.