What causes insomnia when taking Lexapro. How to avoid sleep disturbances while on escitalopram. When does Lexapro-induced insomnia typically subside. What are effective strategies for managing sleep issues related to SSRI use.

Understanding Lexapro: An Overview of the Antidepressant

Lexapro, also known by its generic name escitalopram, is a widely prescribed antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This medication is primarily used to treat major depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and other related mental health conditions. As with many pharmaceutical interventions, Lexapro can bring about various side effects, one of which is insomnia.

To fully grasp the impact of Lexapro on sleep patterns, it’s crucial to understand its mechanism of action. SSRIs work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and overall well-being. While this can significantly alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, it may also interfere with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.

Prevalence of Antidepressant Use in the United States

The use of antidepressants has become increasingly common in the United States. Recent statistics indicate that approximately 13.2% of Americans regularly take antidepressants to manage their mental health. Among these medications, SSRIs like Lexapro are particularly popular due to their efficacy and relatively favorable side effect profile compared to older antidepressants.

The Connection Between Lexapro and Insomnia

While Lexapro is designed to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, it can paradoxically lead to sleep disturbances in some individuals. This side effect is not uncommon among SSRI users, with insomnia being reported in approximately 5% more cases compared to placebo groups in clinical trials.

Why does Lexapro cause insomnia in some patients? The answer lies in the medication’s effect on serotonin levels. Serotonin plays a complex role in sleep regulation, influencing both sleep onset and maintenance. When Lexapro increases serotonin levels, it can disrupt the delicate balance of neurotransmitters involved in the sleep-wake cycle, potentially leading to difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night.

Duration of Lexapro-Induced Insomnia

For many individuals, sleep disturbances related to Lexapro use are temporary. Most patients find that their sleep patterns improve within one to two weeks of starting the medication as their bodies adjust to the altered serotonin levels. However, in some cases, sleep issues may persist for up to four weeks. It’s important to note that while insomnia can be a troublesome side effect, it often resolves on its own as the body acclimates to the medication.

Optimal Timing for Taking Lexapro to Minimize Sleep Disturbances

One strategy for managing Lexapro-induced insomnia is to carefully consider the timing of medication intake. Many healthcare providers recommend taking Lexapro in the morning to minimize its impact on nighttime sleep patterns. This approach allows the medication to be most active during waking hours, potentially reducing its sleep-disrupting effects when bedtime arrives.

Is morning dosing always the best option for Lexapro? While it works well for many patients, individual responses can vary. Some people may find that taking Lexapro in the evening actually improves their sleep. The key is to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the optimal dosing schedule based on your specific needs and response to the medication.

Effective Strategies for Managing Insomnia While Taking Lexapro

If you’re experiencing sleep difficulties while taking Lexapro, there are several strategies you can employ to improve your sleep quality:

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down
• Ensure your sleeping environment is comfortable, dark, and quiet
• Limit exposure to blue light from electronic devices before bedtime
• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
• Engage in regular physical exercise, but avoid vigorous workouts close to bedtime
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and large meals in the evening

How can you determine which strategies work best for you? It may take some trial and error to find the right combination of techniques that effectively manage your sleep issues. Keep a sleep diary to track your sleep patterns and the impact of different interventions.

Other Common Side Effects of Lexapro

While insomnia is a notable side effect of Lexapro, it’s not the only one that patients may experience. Other common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Increased sweating
• Sexual dysfunction
• Changes in appetite or weight

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and many find that they diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if side effects persist or become severe, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Lexapro-Related Sleep Issues

While some sleep disturbances are expected when starting Lexapro, there are instances where professional medical advice should be sought. Consider contacting your healthcare provider if:

• Insomnia persists beyond four weeks of starting Lexapro
• Sleep issues significantly impact your daily functioning or quality of life
• You experience other concerning side effects alongside insomnia
• You’re considering stopping or changing your medication due to sleep problems

How should you approach discussing sleep issues with your doctor? Be prepared to provide detailed information about your sleep patterns, any strategies you’ve tried, and how the insomnia is affecting your overall well-being. This information will help your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your treatment plan.

Balancing the Benefits and Side Effects of Lexapro

When considering the impact of Lexapro on sleep, it’s essential to weigh the benefits of the medication against its potential side effects. For many individuals, the improvement in mood and reduction of anxiety symptoms far outweigh temporary sleep disturbances. However, each person’s experience is unique, and what works for one may not be ideal for another.

How can you determine if Lexapro is the right choice for you despite potential sleep issues? Work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns. Remember that there are often alternative treatments or adjustments that can be made if Lexapro’s side effects prove too challenging to manage.

The Role of Patient Education in Managing Lexapro Treatment

Understanding the potential side effects of Lexapro, including insomnia, is crucial for patients embarking on this treatment. Being well-informed allows you to set realistic expectations and proactively manage any issues that arise. Your healthcare provider should be your primary source of information, but reputable online resources and support groups can also provide valuable insights into others’ experiences with the medication.

Alternative Approaches to Managing Depression and Anxiety

While Lexapro can be an effective treatment for depression and anxiety, it’s not the only option available. For those who find the side effects, including insomnia, too challenging to manage, there are alternative approaches worth considering:

• Other types of antidepressants with different side effect profiles
• Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Mindfulness and meditation practices
• Lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise changes
• Alternative and complementary therapies, under professional guidance

How can you determine which alternative approach might be right for you? Discuss your options with your healthcare provider, considering your specific symptoms, medical history, and personal preferences. Often, a combination of treatments yields the best results.

The Importance of Holistic Mental Health Care

While medications like Lexapro can play a crucial role in managing depression and anxiety, they are most effective when part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This may include regular therapy sessions, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing support from mental health professionals and loved ones. By addressing mental health from multiple angles, individuals can often achieve better outcomes and more sustainable improvements in their overall well-being.

In conclusion, while Lexapro-induced insomnia can be a challenging side effect, it is often temporary and manageable. By understanding the relationship between the medication and sleep disturbances, implementing effective coping strategies, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, many individuals can successfully navigate this aspect of their treatment journey. Remember that everyone’s experience with Lexapro is unique, and with patience and proper support, it’s possible to find a balance that promotes both mental health and restful sleep.

What Causes Insomnia When Taking Lexapro And How To Avoid It?

Content

• Overview
• What is Lexapro?
• How often are antidepressants used in the U.S.?
• Can Lexapro cause insomnia?
• Will Lexapro-induced insomnia go away?
• The best time to take Lexapro to avoid insomnia
• How to manage and deal with insomnia when taking Lexapro
• What are other potential side effects of taking Lexapro?
• When to see a doctor 
• The lowdown

Often, insomnia is a side effect of an underlying issue. It may stem from too much stress, anxiety, depression, and even the medications that are supposed to help us with these conditions. One example of this is Lexapro, which can cause an increase in insomnia for some people.

If you are taking Lexapro and unable to rest well during the night, we have some advice and tips on reducing the effects. We can also help you understand what may cause you to experience increased insomnia while taking Lexapro.

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Lexapro¹ is a brand of medication used to treat depression. It is a drug known as escitalopram, classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). You can only get Lexapro with a prescription from a doctor. It is used to treat:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

• Major depressive disorders

• Depression

• Dementia with depressive features

• Depressive psychosis

To ensure optimal results while taking Lexapro, take a dose at the same time each day. Follow your doctor’s recommendations on proper dosage. Typically, the dosage will vary based on your age and your needs. The lowest effective dose is always used. 

• Adolescents: 10 mg once daily for three weeks, and may increase to 20 mg daily

• Adults: 10 mg daily, and may increase to 20 mg daily after the first week

You should avoid taking yourself off Lexapro suddenly. If you do, you could experience withdrawal symptoms. These are caused by the body’s inability to adjust to the sudden change in serotonin levels.

It’s estimated that over 13.2%² of Americans take antidepressants regularly to improve their mood and take control of their mental health. Of those antidepressants, SSRIs are among the most popular, with name brands like:

Each of these prescription medications can be beneficial to someone who has depressive episodes or anxiety. However, sometimes they may also cause unwanted side effects. 

The good news is that most side effects are short-term and many others can be relieved if you make good choices while taking them.  

When taking Lexapro, there are a variety of side effects you may experience. Unfortunately, two are very common: fatigue and insomnia. According to the FDA,³ adults experience insomnia and other side effects approximately 5% more often (or more) than those with a placebo if they have a major depressive disorder.

When you initially start taking Lexapro, it can throw things a little off balance, similar to how stopping Lexapro too fast can mess with the level of serotonin in your brain. The good news is because escitalopram has been shown to help improve sleep disorders,⁴ your initial insomnia or increased fatigue should not last long.

Most people who experience insomnia after starting Lexapro will improve their sleep patterns within a week or two. However, some individuals may experience a disruption in their sleep patterns for up to four weeks.

One thing you can do to help yourself overcome Lexapro insomnia is to learn how to manage and deal with it. One option is to consider taking it in the morning so that you are awake during the day and ready for bed when it is time to rest. 

If doing this does not seem to work well for you, or if you cannot take it in the mornings consistently, there are other things you may want to try.

If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, and other issues, you may already be familiar with sleep troubles. Beyond taking your medication in the morning, there are several things you may want to try if you want to get a good night’s sleep. Often, these ideas are the same whether you take Lexapro or not.

Here are the most common suggestions for avoiding insomnia when taking Lexapro:

Avoid alcohol or other stimulants

Although alcohol can make you sleep, it can also negatively affect your sleep. You should avoid consuming alcohol in the first place when taking Lexapro. Otherwise, you may end up feeling nauseated, which can make it even more challenging to rest.

Exercise more often

When you exercise, you may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. It can help your body’s internal clock reset so that you can get back to a regular sleep routine.

Limit your caffeine intake

Caffeine can cause your body and mind to stay more alert,⁵ depriving you of sleep. If you are experiencing insomnia as a side effect, you may want to stop drinking it 6 hours before bed or longer if you still don’t feel that you get the sleep your body requires.

Turn off devices before bedtime

People often use their devices within an hour of going to bed. The screen can become a distraction,⁶ especially if you have difficulty setting limits for yourself on when to turn it off.

Create an effective sleep space

Your bedroom should be a place where you can relax. This may mean designing a bedroom that is made for sleeping. According to the Sleep Foundation,⁷ some things you may try are:

• Upgrading your mattress and bedding

• Reducing clutter

• Limiting bold colors

• Turning off the lights

• Cooling your room

• Using white noise

You may also consider using meditation and aromatherapies to help you fall asleep more soundly. Some popular essential oil choices⁸ are lavender, chamomile, and clary sage oils.

Insomnia is one of the many side effects of Lexapro⁹ or escitalopram. Some other common side effects may include:

• Headache

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Dry mouth

• Feeling nervous

• Restless

• Fatigue

• Increased sweating

These side effects can disappear after a few weeks once your body adjusts to the medication. Some people may experience sexual side effects that may not go away with time.

If you feel that your insomnia is affecting you too much or lasts beyond the first few weeks of taking Lexapro, your doctor can and will help. Insomnia is vital to address, as insufficient sleep can cause other health and wellness issues. 

Some things to look out for if you have insomnia are:

• Feeling drained throughout the day

• Feeling more depressed or irritable

• Feeling as though you cannot focus on things around you

• Feeling nauseous or sick frequently

These side effects of insomnia are not things we should ignore since they can negatively impact your daily life. However, this is not the only thing you should talk to your doctor about.

As with taking any other medication, there are sometimes serious side effects. Some possible severe reactions may include:

• Eye troubles: Blurred vision, tunnel vision, halo, eye pain, swelling

• Unusual thoughts or feelings: Extreme happiness or sadness, uncommon risk-taking, racing thoughts

• Signs of low sodium: Confusion, slurred speech, weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, constant headaches

• Nervous system reactions: High fevers, confusion, irregular or fast heartbeats, fainting or feeling as though you may, rigid muscles

• Symptoms of serotonin syndrome: Agitation, hallucinations, fast heart rate, generally feeling unwell

• Persistent rash, hives, or any swelling may indicate that you are allergic to Lexapro or its ingredients

This is not a list of all possible side effects for people taking Lexapro or other medications containing escitalopram. Therefore, if you have any symptoms that cause you to discomfort or make you worry, contact your doctor. 

If the side effects you feel are related to drastic changes in mood or suicidal thoughts, you should contact your doctor or your nearest emergency room immediately!

If you are wondering about the best time to take Lexapro to avoid insomnia, you’re not alone. Many people take it daily, and insomnia is a common problem for them because of the way Lexapro changes your brain’s serotonin levels.

There is no easy way to deal with insomnia from depression, anxiety, or your medications to treat those conditions. However, it will require you to try a few different things to see what works best for your Lexapro insomnia.

In most cases, insomnia may fade quickly once you begin taking Lexapro. If it doesn’t, or if you start feeling that your insomnia is negatively affecting your daily life, you should reach out to your doctor for help. They may change your medication or try to find something else that may work better for you.

Lexapro Insomnia: How To Manage

Lexapro is one of the most prescribed antidepressants in the United States.

People who take Lexapro often report improvements in the symptoms of depression and anxiety after 4-6 weeks, but it’s important to note the medication can have side effects that range from mild to severe. 

One of the most common side effects of Lexapro is insomnia, where patients find it difficult to fall or stay asleep. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the relationship between Lexapro and insomnia, whether Lexapro causes insomnia, and how to manage insomnia caused by Lexapro.

We’ll also look into when to see a doctor if you think Lexapro is causing your insomnia.

What is Lexapro?

Lexapro is a brand name for the medication escitalopram oxalate.

It is a medication belonging to the selective serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRI) class of drugs. 

SSRIs prevent the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, thereby increasing the amount available.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for mood, sleep, and other bodily functions.

A comparative review suggests that escitalopram is more effective and has a better tolerability profile than other SSRIs. 

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What does Lexapro treat?

Lexapro is prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), also known as depression, in adults and children as young as 12 years old.

It is also prescribed for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults.

It can also be prescribed off-label for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorders, eating disorders, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Off-label means the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved it to treat those conditions but your healthcare provider can prescribe it if they believe it may help.   

Can Lexapro Cause Insomnia? 

More than 10% of patients reported insomnia while on Lexapro, according to the FDA, making it one of the most common side effects of the medication.

Many antidepressants, especially SSRIs, can cause insomnia due to their effect on the serotonergic system responsible for certain bodily functions, including sleep.

Insomnia presents as not being able to fall asleep even when you feel tired, or being unable to stay asleep, which affects your sleep quality. 

If you’re taking Lexapro and experiencing insomnia, there is a possibility it might be caused by your medical condition rather than the medication.

Studies show that sleep disorders like insomnia occur in about three-quarters of depressed patients.

It is also a symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). 

In some cases, Lexapro can help with insomnia symptoms.

A randomized controlled trial reported improved sleep quality and reduced insomnia symptoms among perimenopausal and postmenopausal people with hot flashes.  

Another study suggests that Lexapro can help alleviate sleep problems in the treatment of MDD and GAD.

How to Manage and Deal with Insomnia from Lexapro 

Insomnia can have a serious negative effect on your quality of life.

If you constantly feel tired or like you’re not well-rested, it can worsen the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

To manage Lexapro-induced insomnia, here are some techniques you can apply:

• Take Lexapro in the morning: If you’ve been taking your medicine at night, try switching it to morning. The insomniac effect of Lexapro may wear off by nighttime, allowing you to have a good night’s rest. However, don’t make this change without approval from your physician or healthcare provider.

• Avoid alcohol: Alcohol has a sedative effect, so people often turn to it as a remedy for insomnia. But in the long run, it can worsen the quality of your sleep. The FDA does not recommend consuming alcohol at the same time as Lexapro. Consuming the two together can increase some of the side effects of the medication, like nausea and dry mouth.

• Avoid late-night caffeinated beverages: Caffeine is a stimulant that can prevent you from falling asleep. With a half-life ranging between 1.5-9.5 hours, it can stay in the body for an extended period and make it difficult to sleep. It may be smart to avoid coffee and other caffeinated drinks after noon.

• Exercise: Exercise can help you fall asleep faster and generally improve the quality of your sleep. During the day, stay active—walk, jog, take a run, sign up for a gym—and make it a lifestyle. But try to avoid intense exercise at least 1 hour before you go to bed, as it may cause sleep problems.

• Avoid technology close to bedtime: Devices like your smartphone and computer emit blue light, which can suppress your body’s production of a hormone that causes sleepiness called melatonin. Research shows that avoiding exposure to blue light for 2 hours before bedtime helps improve sleep quality.

• Create the right condition for sleep: Making sure your room is quiet, dimly lit, and at the right temperature can help you sleep better.

A combination of these techniques can help improve your sleep pattern and quality.

If there are no changes, discuss other options with your doctor.

Will the insomnia go away? 

With continuous use of Lexapro, insomnia will likely diminish over time.

After starting the medication, it can take at least 1 or 2 weeks to see an improvement in your sleep pattern.

If insomnia persists for several weeks, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. They may have other options for you.

Additional Side Effects 

Besides insomnia, some other common side effects from using Lexapro include:

• Sleepiness
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Sexual problems like ejaculation disorder
• Dry mouth
• Changes in stool like Diarrhea or Constipation
• Infection
• Not feeling hungry
• Feeling anxious
• Weakness
• Shaking
• Sweating
• Weight loss (in children)
• Headache

Most of these side effects can be appropriately managed and will diminish over time.

However, sexual side effects are not known to decrease over time and it may be worth talking to your doctor about switching to another medication if you’re experiencing them.

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When to See a Doctor

If insomnia caused by Lexapro lasts for several weeks and is severe, see your doctor or healthcare provider.

They may decide to adjust your dosage, switch you to a different antidepressant, or prescribe sleeping medication.

How K Health Can Help

Think you might need a prescription for Lexapro (Escitalopram)?

K Health has clinicians standing by 24/7 to evaluate your symptoms and determine if Lexapro is right for you.

Get started with our free assessment, which will tell you in minutes if treatment could be a good fit. If yes, we’ll connect you right to a clinician who can prescribe medication and have it shipped right to your door.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does insomnia last with Lexapro?

Insomnia as a side effect of using Lexapro typically does not last long. You can expect to stop experiencing insomnia within the first two weeks of using the medication. If your insomnia persists after several weeks, talk to a doctor about other options.

Is it better to take Lexapro at night or in the morning?

You should take Lexapro according to your doctor’s prescription. If you’re experiencing insomnia with Lexapro, your doctor may decide that it’s better to take it in the morning. Do not switch your dosage or medication timing without consulting your doctor or healthcare provider first.

K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

K Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions,
and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

• Escitalopram (Lexapro) (2020)
  https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Escitalopram-(Lexapro)

• Blocking Nocturnal Blue Light for Insomnia: A Randomized Controlled Trial (2017)
  https://www. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5703049/

• Effects of Escitalopram on Sleep Problems in Patients With Major Depression or Generalized Anxiety Disorder (2011)
  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22057726/

• Sleep Disorders As Core Symptoms of Depression (2008)
  https://www. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3181883/

Doctor, am I dying?! Should You Panic, or What the Practitioner Knows About Your Symptoms read online by Christopher Kelly, Mark Eisenberg (Page 5)

YOU ARE TAKING A NEW MEDICINE. Many medications can interfere with your sleep cycle. Among them are drugs that normalize blood pressure: beta-blockers (atenolol, metoprolol / Toprol) and alpha-blockers (terazosin / Gitrin, Tamsulosin / Flomax), decongestants (phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine), stimulants (methylphenidate / Ritalin), steroids (prednisone , Hydrocortisone) and antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs (fluoxetine/Prozac, escitalopram/Lexapro, citalopram/Celex, sertraline/Zoloft). Note that the rejection of these drugs can cause withdrawal symptoms and, accordingly, insomnia. Please check with your doctor before making any changes to your prescription medications.

YOU WAKE UP EARLY IN THE MORNING AND YOU CANNOT SLEEP. The main reason for waking up early without feeling cheerful is depression. If your sleep problems are combined with chronic low mood, poor concentration, weight loss and appetite, see your doctor as soon as possible. Another reason for waking up too early is excessive drinking the day before, so if a gloomy morning comes to you only in such cases, try not to abuse tequila next time.

EVERYTHING IS NOT AS IT WAS BEFORE. One third of menopausal women suffer from insomnia. Internal hot flashes and sweating can haunt you all night. Normal sleep is also interfered with by hormonal changes. Discuss treatment options with your doctor, including hormone replacement therapy.

FEET DRIVE YOU CRAZY. If you feel burning discomfort and tingling in your legs that subside when you walk, you probably have restless leg syndrome. In the morning, you feel some relief, but as the day progresses, the symptoms increase. This bizarre disorder may be the result of some other neurological or systemic disease, or it may be a manifestation of iron deficiency, kidney failure, neuropathy, and even multiple sclerosis or pregnancy, as well as a side effect of medications (including antihistamines, antidepressants, and antiemetics).

If you cannot stop the forced dancing at night, see a doctor for an examination. Alternatively, you can try to soothe your legs yourself by stretching and stretching them and taking a cold shower before bed.

QUICK ADVICE

…

SLEEP RESTORE MEDICINES

If your insomnia doesn’t go away after making lifestyle changes, your doctor may prescribe certain drugs to help you sleep. It should be noted that these medicines are not intended for long-term use, but you can take them for several weeks in parallel with changing the daily routine, etc. It is also necessary to understand that their use is associated with certain risks, so please use them only under under the supervision of a doctor (self-medication with dubious “folk” drugs is categorically not recommended). Elderly people need to be especially careful, because taking certain types of sleeping pills can cause them to become clouded in consciousness and balance, which entails, in particular, the risk of falling. A long-term and more effective solution to the problem, without any side effects, can be cognitive behavioral therapy, in which a psychologist will train your brain to avoid stress, empty “internal dialogue” and fixation on false problems, and also relax when the time comes. sleep. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of undergoing psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.

BENADRIL/TYLENOL PM/ADVIL PM (TABLETS). All these medicines contain the same active ingredient, diphenhydramine, which primarily has an anti-allergic effect and at the same time causes drowsiness. Although diphenhydramine’s low price has made it widely popular, it does not always work, causing a number of side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, confusion (especially in older people), etc. Some studies also indicate a link between regular diphenhydramine medication and early dementia.

MELATONIN. Melatonin is a chemical synthesized in the brain to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Taken in tablet form, it can help reset the body clock after a jet lag. In this case, it should be taken a few hours before bedtime in the new conditions. In other situations, it is usually ineffective. It should be remembered that the amount in nutritional supplements varies significantly, indicating insufficient control of the composition of these supplements (in other words, we can pay dearly for sawdust compressed into pill form). In addition, a slight excess of the dose of melatonin leads to prolonged sleep, impaired orientation. A significantly exceeded dose of this substance (up to 30 mg, that is, 10 tablets at the same time) leads to amnesia, neurotic shifts and requires medical attention.

BENZODIAZEPINES (temazepam/Restoril, clonazepam/Klonopin, lorazepam/Ativan). These drugs can help you fall asleep and sleep through the night (some, like lorazepam, take longer to work than others, like clonazepam). These medications can even reduce anxiety and alleviate stress. We give them to claustrophobic patients before an MRI. Unfortunately, they can be addictive, so they should be taken for a limited time under medical supervision.

NON-BENZODIAZEPINE HYPNOTICS (essopiclone/hypnotics, Zolpidem/tablets, zaleplon/Sonata). These drugs are also very effective, but, like benzodiazepines, are addictive, and therefore their use should be strictly limited. In addition, patients taking these drugs report hallucinations or abnormal sleep behaviors, including eating, walking, and even having sex (a convenient excuse, by the way). While side effects are rare, this is a good reason to be careful.

YOU HAVE TRIED ALL THE RECIPES IN THIS BOOK BUT YOU STILL CAN’T SLEEP. If you have excellent sleep hygiene, are not taking questionable medications, and do not qualify for any of the scenarios above, schedule a thorough medical evaluation that includes blood work and a clinical study of your sleep patterns.

TIME TO CALL AMBULANCE

IMPOSSIBLE TO SLEEP BECAUSE OF SHORT WHITE OR Severe PAIN. If the body is giving alarms, don’t try to sleep by ignoring them. If you can’t sleep because you can’t breathe in a certain position, or if you have a new source of severe pain, don’t wait until dawn and go to the hospital.

Dizziness and spatial disorientation

By , like youth and good weather, maintaining orientation in space is not perceived by us as a value as long as we have it. If we lose it, it becomes extremely difficult to even stand straight.

One of the problems is that the very concept of orientation in space refers us to various sensations. If you feel weak and it seems that you are about to lose consciousness, it would be more accurate to say that you are just disoriented. It is important to note that with this kind of turning off the head, the patient describes any sensations other than rotation: fog in the head, instability, fear of falling, and others. All these sensations arise when the brain is deprived of a sufficient amount of blood, and, despite the menacing sound of these words, it is far from always a serious problem. Factors such as the frequency of the relevant symptoms and the circumstances in which they occur are important.

End of introduction

Difference between Xanax and Lexapro

Many people mistakenly believe that Xanax and Lexapro are the same thing. This misconception can be fatal. That’s why it’s important to be clear about the differences between them.

Science Quiz

Test your knowledge on science-related topics

1 / 10

Which food has the most energy?

Carbohydrate

Protein products

Fat

Vitamin

2 / 10

Which gas is not called a greenhouse gas?

Methane

Nitric Oxide

Carbon Dioxide

Hydrogen

3 / 10

Which instrument is used to measure atmospheric pressure?

Ammeter

Voltmeter

Seismograph

Barometer

4 / 10

Where does photosynthesis take place?

Core

Vacuole

Chloroplast/chlorophyll

Mitochondria

5 / 10

What is another name for Newton’s first law?

Action-reaction

Change of momentum

Law of inertia

Constant momentum

6 / 10

What is the most ductile metal?

Gold

Silver

Copper

Iron

7 / 10

Carbonated water contains

Carbonic acid

Sulfuric acid

Carbon dioxide

Nitric acid

8 / 10

An atom is considered __________ when the number of protons and electrons is equal.

Positive

Negative

Neutral

9 / 10

What is the pH range of acids?

0 – 7

7 – 14

1 – 7

7 – 15

10 / 10

h3O

Al2O3

CaSiO3

your account

Key Findings

1. Xanax is a benzodiazepine drug that acts as a central nervous system depressant and treats anxiety and panic disorders by increasing GABA activity in the brain.
2. Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that treats depression and anxiety by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain.
3. Xanax has a faster onset of action and may be addictive while Lexapro takes longer to take effect and is less addictive.

Xanax vs. Lexapro

Xanax is a brand name for the drug alprazolam for general anxiety disorders. Enhances the effects of GABA; a calming neurotransmitter present in the brain. Lexapro is a brand name for the drug escitalopram, used to treat depression and anxiety by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

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Xanax, also called alprazolam, is great for treating depression and anxiety. Side effects that a person experiences after using the medicine are memory problems, dry mouth, drowsiness, depression, etc.

Lexapro primarily treats problems such as major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. Lexapro is also known as Escitalopram and Cipralex.

Comparison chart

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Comparison parameters	Xanax	Lexapro
Medical Scientific Name	Alprazolam	Escitalopram
Used for	Provide short-term treatment for anxiety disorders, especially panic disorder or GTR.	Treatment of major depressive disorder or any generalized anxiety disorder.
Action time	It works very quickly, sometimes within a few hours.	Significantly takes a little longer.
Common side effects	Dry mouth, memory problems, insomnia, depression and fatigue.	Sleep problems, nausea and fatigue.
US Popularity Rank (2018)	37th most prescribed drug.	22nd place in terms of the number of drugs prescribed.

What is Xanax?

Xanax is the name under which alprazolam is marketed. It is most often used for the short-term treatment of anxiety disorders, especially panic disorder or GAD, or generalized anxiety disorder.

Common side effects seen in people who take it include dry mouth, memory problems, insomnia, depression and fatigue.

Statistically, Xanax is the 37th most common drug prescribed to 20 million people in the United States in 2018.

A few questions that the healthcare professional has against prescribing Xanax depend on whether the patient suffers from problems such as severe liver failure, pre-existing respiratory depression, etc.

What is Lexapro?

Lexapro is also known as cipralex or, more popularly and scientifically, escitalopram. Lexapro treats major depressive disorder or any generalized anxiety disorder.

There are some common side effects that you may experience after using the medicine. These include sexual problems, sleep problems, nausea, and fatigue.

Statistically, Lexapro was the 22nd most commonly prescribed drug in the United States in 2018, with an estimated over 25 million people prescribed it.

Lexapro helps increase extrasynaptic levels of the neurotransmitter known as serotonin by blocking the reuptake of the neurotransmitter in one presynaptic neuron.

The main differences between Xanax and Lexapro

1. Common side effects you may experience after taking Xanax are dry mouth, memory problems, insomnia, depression and fatigue. And in the case of Lexapro, the common side effects are sleep problems, nausea and fatigue.
2. Statistically, in 2018, Xanax was the 37th most commonly prescribed drug in the US, while Lexapro was the 22nd.

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Piyush Yadav

Piyush Yadav has worked as a physicist in the local community for the last 25 years. He is a physicist passionate about making science more accessible to our readers. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science.