Lexapro is a sought-after drug among healthcare practitioners who have experienced significant improvement in treating depression, particularly among those with MDD and GAD. However, like any medicine, Lexapro does come with potential side effects that can vary from mild to severe.
Xcitalopram, an SSRI, is used to stimulate the brain's serotonin secretion, which is responsible for increasing levels in the body. Some individuals who use this mechanism may experience adverse effects that impact their quality of life, despite the benefits they gain from it.
Understanding these common risks is crucial for patients starting treatment with Lexapro or other SSRIs. Those with an understanding of possible side effects will be more likely to work closely with their doctor, who will help them manage any potential adverse reactions and get the best possible outcome from therapy.
From gastrointestinal issues to sexual dysfunction and more, this article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the most common Lexapro side effects, enabling readers to make informed decisions about their treatment. The thorough examination of these risks and symptoms can assist patients in taking charge of their mental health with greater confidence.
Lexapro, a brand of SSRIs, is also known as enzoprazole and is used to treat crow's feet. This category includes the popular antidepressants such as Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), and Paxil (paxil). SSRIs work by raising levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays the 'key' neuron (Serotone), which helps regulate mood and appetite, and many other functions.
According to studies, taking lexapro as directed can help with depression and anxiety disorders, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Even so, it bears some drawbacks, as like all drugs: It may have adverse effects. These reactions can be mild and temporarily, or more serious and possibly lasting longer.
The most frequent and frequently occurring side effects of Lexapro are the focus of this article, which covers their frequency, severity, and treatment options. We aim to uncover these risks in order for patients and their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about treatment options and optimize outcomes for mental health improvement.
Often prescribed as an antidote or painkiller, ecitalopram (also known as Lexapro) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. As with other drugs, it has many benefits in treating these symptoms but some people are not as good. Mild to moderate side effects are the norm, but in exceptional cases, they may be severe or enduring.
Lexapro has the following frequently occurring adverse reactions:
Not as common but still significant are some significant side effects, including:
The side effects of Lexapro are less common and can cause more serious harm than usual, such as:
Please see the table below for a summary of the most common side effects caused by Lexipro:
Side Effect | Prevalence (%) |
---|---|
Nausea and stomach discomfort | 14-22% |
Dizziness or lightheadedness | 7-10% |
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or vivid dreams) | 5-8% |
Tremors or shakiness | 3-6% |
Sexual dysfunction (reduced libido, erectile issues in men, and decreased orgasmic intensity in women) | 2-5% |
Sweating | 1-3% |
Headache | 1-2% |
In the event of experiencing any of these side effects while using Lexapro, it is recommended to seek medical advice from your doctor. They have the ability to assess the severity and influence of daily existence, as well as recommending possible changes to dosage or other options for alternative treatments.
Patients who consume lexapro may experience different physical sensations. Some people might feel somewhat awkward while others may experience more severe symptoms. Patients must be familiar with these typical physical symptoms to promptly report them to their medical professionals if necessary.
Typically, the primary physical symptoms are dizziness or lightheadedness (lumber), nausea and stomach pains associated with food consumption and waste disposal, headache/headache, tiredness, insomniac behavior, altered taste sensations, appetite changes, sweating patterns, muscle spasms like goosebumps caused by tummy fluttering, blurred vision, difficulty in seeing colors, and altered tastes. Dry mouth, constipation, and other weight loss issues may also manifest in some patients.
Some people experience severe physical symptoms that are moderate to severe in their daily routine. Difficulty or lightheadedness can cause apprehension about driving or activities that require balance or coordination.
The physician should provide patients with guidance on managing physical symptoms that have become severe or persisting. Occasionally, the doctor will need to adjust or prescribe additional medication to alleviate the distressing side effects of Lexapro.
People who use Lexapro, primarily for depression and anxiety disorders, may experience various mental or emotional effects as an overdose. While the medication is intended to reduce some of these conditions, it may have other unintended effects such as mood swings and changes in memory function and behavior. These variations are sometimes short-lived, while others are long-lasting and may cause significant harm.
Among the mental and emotional changes that occur frequently with the use of Xanax:
Individuals who are taking Lexapro should carefully observe their mental state and inform healthcare providers if any abnormal changes occur. For those who are considering taking Lexapro or are already on the medication, if you are not feeling well--see your doctor. Access further information about the highest possible dose of Lexapro at this point.
In some cases, mental and emotional changes caused by Lexapro may be severe enough to warrant a tapering off or discontinuation of the medication. The best course of treatment for individual circumstances requires close consultation with a healthcare provider.
While most people who take Lexapro (escitalopram) experience mild to moderate side effects that go away with time, some may be unfortunate enough to encounter less common yet more severe adverse reactions. The potential negative effects of these medications are significant enough to impact daily life and overall health, making it important for those taking them to be aware of their risks.
Lexapro has some rare but serious side effects: .
You should be aware of potential interactions between Lexapro and other drugs while taking it. Not only does this apply to prescribed drugs, but it also applies to over-the-counter (OTC) medications (antibiotics), nutritional supplements, and even certain foods.
Lexapro is also known as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), and its effects may be amplified when used with other drugs that modify serotonine levels in the body. For example, taking Lexapro with MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) or certain triptans for migraines may lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Other drugs that may interact with Lexapro include:
In the event that you're taking these drugs with Lexapro, your physician should carefully monitor you for any potential side effects and adjust your dosage adjustments accordingly.
Sometimes, certain foods can interact with Lexapro too. For instance:.. . . For instance: ..
In order to reduce the likelihood of interactions with medications, supplements, and other substances that may affect you, make sure to inform your doctor about all medications. They'll help you make informed decisions about taking Lexapro safely.
For more information on the effects of Lexapro, such as its administration, how it works to reduce weight and when to give it to your baby, and recommended dosing times, please read our informative pages.