Lexapro Side Effects: What Patients Should Know Before Starting This Antidepressant

Lexapro is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of medications. It is often used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. While Lexapro can be highly effective in managing these conditions and improving a patient’s quality of life, like any other medication, it may cause certain side effects.

If you or your loved one is planning to start taking Lexapro, it is important to be aware of the potential adverse reactions it may cause. In our guide, we will take a closer look at the most common side effects of Lexapro, as well as some of the rare symptoms that may require immediate medical attention.

Table of Contents

• Common Side Effects of Lexapro
• Rare Side Effects of Lexapro
• Long-Term Side Effects of Lexapro
• Lexapro Withdrawal Symptoms
• When Should You Talk to a Doctor About Lexapro Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Lexapro

Like many other antidepressants, Lexapro may cause several mild side effects, especially during the first few days of treatment. These side effects are not dangerous, and, in most cases, they go away on their own after your body adjusts to the new medication.

Here are the most common Lexapro side effects you may experience

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Increased sweating
• Reduced appetite
• Insomnia
• Lowered sex drive

Rare Side Effects of Lexapro

While there are no serious dangers associated with taking Lexapro, in rare cases, patients may have an allergic reaction to the medication or experience symptoms that affect their day-to-day life and prevent them from continuing the treatment.

Reach out to your health care provider as soon as you notice any of the uncommon Lexapro side effects listed below

• Skin rash
• Swelling—especially of the face and limbs
• Breathing difficulties
• Chest pain
• Blurred vision
• Fainting
• Vomiting
• Blood pressure fluctuations
• Weight gain
• Fever

Long-Term Side Effects of Lexapro

Before starting the therapy with Lexapro, you should be informed of the possible long-term side effects of this antidepressant. Generally, Lexapro is considered to be safe for long-term use—your doctor may prescribe it for a period of several months or several years, depending on your circumstances and response to the medication.

Nonetheless, some side effects may persist if you take Lexapro for a long time:

• Sleep problems
• Sexual dysfunction
• Weight changes
• Memory issues
• Bone fractures

If you have been taking Lexapro for a while and you have noticed any new or unusual symptoms, it is a good idea to visit the doctor and reassess your treatment plan.

Lexapro Withdrawal Symptoms

Suddenly stopping the intake of Lexapro without a prior consultation with the doctor may lead to withdrawal or discontinuation syndrome. If your mental health practitioner decides Lexapro is not suitable for you or you have achieved the desired results of the treatment, they will provide you with a tapering schedule—this way, you will be able to avoid or minimize withdrawal symptoms.

In case you have been taking Lexapro for at least four weeks, be on the lookout for these withdrawal symptoms if you quit the medication abruptly

• Irritability
• Confusion
• Agitation
• Sleepiness
• Brain zaps (sensations similar to electric shocks in the head)
• Muscle pain
• High blood pressure

When Should You Talk to a Doctor About Lexapro Side Effects

It is crucial to stay in touch with your doctor after you start taking Lexapro. Patients start feeling the positive effects of this antidepressant within four to six weeks; however, if the medication does not seem to be helping your condition or you experience several side effects from our list, you may need to switch to a different drug.

Report the side effects of Lexapro to your doctor, especially if the symptoms you are experiencing are severe or unusual. For instance, if you have difficulties breathing or develop a rash after taking Lexapro, you may require emergency medical care.

FAQs

What is the most common side effect of Lexapro?

The most common side effect of Lexapro (escitalopram) is nausea, which typically appears during the first one to two weeks of treatment and tends to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Other frequently reported side effects include headache, insomnia, drowsiness, increased sweating, and sexual side effects such as low libido or delayed orgasm—most of which are mild and often diminish over time.

What is Lexapro used for?

Lexapro is a medication prescribed to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. This drug belongs to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors—it increases the level of serotonin in the brain and helps the patient manage their mood.

What are the most common side effects of Lexapro?

The use of Lexapro may lead to side effects such as headache, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, insomnia, and low sex drive. These symptoms are quite common—fortunately, they are minor in nature and go away within a few days.

What are the rare side effects of Lexapro?

In rare cases, patients have an allergic reaction to Lexapro. If you notice a skin rash, swelling of your face, breathing difficulties, or chest pain after taking the medication, make sure to see a doctor and get the treatment you need.

Can Lexapro be taken long-term?

Yes, Lexapro is considered to be safe for long-term use. Still, if you take it for several years, you may struggle with weight gain, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction—consult your doctor to amend your therapy if you are diagnosed with long-term side effects.

Is it safe to stop taking Lexapro without a doctor?

It is not recommended to quit Lexapro without a doctor’s approval—otherwise, you may have to deal with withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, confusion, and muscle pain. Your doctor will give you a special schedule to gradually discontinue the medication.

What are the side effects of Lexapro in men?

Men taking Lexapro commonly experience nausea, headache, insomnia, drowsiness, and increased sweating, particularly during the first few weeks of treatment. Sexual side effects are also frequently reported, with 9 to 14 percent of people prescribed Lexapro experiencing ejaculation disorder and around 3 percent reporting erectile dysfunction (ED) in clinical trials—alongside decreased libido, which should be discussed with a healthcare provider if it persists.

What are the side effects of Lexapro in women?

Women taking Lexapro often experience common side effects such as nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and trouble sleeping, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Because SSRIs can affect estrogen and progesterone levels, women may also notice changes in menstrual cycle length, flow, or regularity, along with breast tenderness, decreased libido, difficulty reaching orgasm, weight fluctuations, and—with long-term use—a potential decrease in bone density, particularly in postmenopausal women.

What are the side effects of Lexapro in adolescents?

In adolescents ages 12 to 17, Lexapro can cause many of the same side effects seen in adults, including headache, nausea, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, decreased appetite, and weight changes that should be monitored over time. Lexapro also carries a boxed warning indicating an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults—particularly during the first few months of treatment or after a dose change, which makes close monitoring by parents and providers essential.

Reach Out to Get Help for Lexapro Side Effects

Mental Health Center San Diego is here to assist you—our experienced professionals will be able to help you deal with depression and anxiety, as well as adjust your treatment plan if this medication does not suit you.