Lexapro: Practical Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects
Want straightforward info on Lexapro (escitalopram)? This is the short, useful version: what it treats, how to take it, common side effects, and simple safety tips you can use right away. No fluff — just the facts you need before talking with your doctor.
How Lexapro works & who it's for
Lexapro is an SSRI antidepressant. It raises serotonin levels in the brain to help lift mood and reduce anxiety. Doctors commonly prescribe it for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It can also help panic symptoms and some social anxiety problems when your clinician thinks it’s a good fit.
Most people start seeing changes in mood or sleep within 2–4 weeks, but the full benefit often takes 6–8 weeks. That patience matters — don’t judge whether it works after just a few days.
Safe use, dosing, and what to watch for
Typical starting dose for adults is 10 mg once daily. If side effects are bothersome, your doctor may start at 5 mg. The usual max dose is 20 mg a day. Older adults often start lower and increase slowly. Always follow your prescriber’s plan — don’t change dose on your own.
Take Lexapro at the same time each day. You can take it with or without food. If you miss a dose and it’s close to your next one, skip the missed dose — don’t double up.
Common side effects: nausea, dry mouth, sleep changes, tiredness, and mild sexual side effects. Most of these ease after 1–2 weeks. If you get severe agitation, suicidal thoughts, chest tightness, high fever, or muscle stiffness, get urgent care — these are rare but serious.
Don’t stop Lexapro suddenly. Stopping abruptly can cause dizziness, electric shock sensations, or mood swings. If you and your doctor decide to stop, expect a taper over days to weeks depending on dose and time on the drug.
Watch interactions: avoid using Lexapro with MAO inhibitors, linezolid, or other strong serotonergic drugs without medical advice — combining them can cause serotonin syndrome (fever, restlessness, tremor). Tell your doctor about blood thinners, NSAIDs, or aspirin — SSRIs can increase bleeding risk a little.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding? Talk with your clinician. For some people, stopping treatment raises greater risks than continuing, so choices depend on your situation and the doctor’s judgment.
Want practical next steps? Keep a simple side-effect diary for two weeks, note any sleep or appetite changes, and bring that to your follow-up. If you’re buying meds online, use licensed pharmacies and keep your prescription. When in doubt, ask your prescriber — they can tailor dose and schedule to your health and other medicines.
