What are the most common side effects of escitalopram. How can patients manage nausea and headaches while taking escitalopram. What serious side effects should prompt immediate medical attention. How does escitalopram affect sexual function.

Understanding Escitalopram and Its Common Side Effects

Escitalopram, commonly known by its brand name Lexapro, is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. While it’s effective in treating depression and anxiety disorders, it can cause side effects in some individuals. It’s crucial to understand that not everyone experiences these side effects, and many who do find them to be mild and manageable.

What are the most common side effects of escitalopram? The most frequently reported side effects include:

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Dry mouth
• Excessive sweating
• Insomnia
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue or weakness

It’s important to note that these side effects often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or become bothersome, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

Managing Nausea and Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Nausea is one of the most common initial side effects of escitalopram. How can patients manage nausea while taking escitalopram? Here are some strategies:

1. Take the medication with food or shortly after eating
2. Avoid rich or spicy foods that may exacerbate nausea
3. Consume smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
4. Stay hydrated by drinking clear fluids
5. Try ginger tea or ginger supplements, known for their anti-nausea properties

Is it normal for nausea to persist? In most cases, nausea subsides within the first few weeks of treatment. If it continues beyond this period or becomes severe, consult your doctor, as they may suggest adjusting your dosage or considering alternative medications.

Coping with Headaches and Other Physical Discomforts

Headaches are another common side effect that patients may experience when starting escitalopram. How can patients manage headaches while taking escitalopram? Consider these approaches:

• Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water
• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your pharmacist
• Apply a cold or warm compress to your forehead
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule

Do headaches typically improve over time? Yes, headaches often resolve within the first week of treatment. If they persist or become severe, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider.

Addressing Dry Mouth and Excessive Sweating

Dry mouth and excessive sweating are less common but still notable side effects of escitalopram. To alleviate dry mouth:

• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies
• Sip water frequently throughout the day
• Use a humidifier in your bedroom
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen dry mouth

For excessive sweating:

• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Use a strong antiperspirant
• Stay hydrated to replace lost fluids
• Consider using antiperspirant wipes for on-the-go freshness

If these symptoms significantly impact your quality of life, discuss them with your doctor, as they may suggest adjusting your treatment plan.

Sleep-Related Side Effects: Insomnia and Drowsiness

Escitalopram can affect sleep patterns, causing either insomnia or drowsiness. How can patients manage sleep-related side effects?

For insomnia:

• Take escitalopram in the morning
• Establish a consistent sleep routine
• Create a relaxing bedtime environment
• Avoid screens for at least an hour before bed
• Practice relaxation techniques before sleeping

For drowsiness:

• Take escitalopram in the evening
• Avoid driving or operating machinery if feeling sleepy
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Engage in light exercise to boost energy levels

Can the timing of medication affect sleep-related side effects? Yes, adjusting the timing of your dose can often help mitigate sleep disturbances. However, always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication schedule.

Recognizing and Responding to Serious Side Effects

While most side effects of escitalopram are mild, some can be serious and require immediate medical attention. What serious side effects should prompt immediate medical attention?

• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Painful, prolonged erections lasting more than 2 hours
• Severe bleeding or bruising
• Signs of low sodium levels (confusion, weakness, muscle cramps)
• Symptoms of serotonin syndrome (high fever, agitation, tremors)
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical help. In case of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), characterized by difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe skin reactions, call emergency services immediately.

Impact on Sexual Function and Libido

Sexual side effects are a concern for many patients taking SSRIs like escitalopram. How does escitalopram affect sexual function? Common sexual side effects include:

• Decreased libido
• Difficulty achieving orgasm
• Erectile dysfunction in men
• Vaginal dryness in women

Can sexual side effects be managed? In many cases, these effects improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist and significantly impact your quality of life, consider discussing the following options with your healthcare provider:

1. Adjusting the dosage
2. Switching to a different antidepressant
3. Adding a medication to counteract sexual side effects
4. Exploring non-pharmacological strategies to enhance sexual function

It’s important to communicate openly with your partner and healthcare provider about these concerns to find an appropriate solution.

Long-Term Considerations and Monitoring

While escitalopram is generally safe for long-term use, ongoing monitoring is essential. What should patients be aware of during long-term escitalopram treatment?

• Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider
• Monitoring for changes in mood or behavior
• Awareness of potential drug interactions
• Vigilance for any new or worsening side effects

Is it safe to stop taking escitalopram abruptly? No, it’s crucial to never stop taking escitalopram or adjust your dosage without consulting your doctor. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential relapse of depression or anxiety.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Considerations

For women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits of escitalopram with a healthcare provider. While the medication is generally considered to have a low risk during pregnancy, individual circumstances may vary, and alternative treatments may be recommended.

By understanding the potential side effects of escitalopram and how to manage them, patients can work closely with their healthcare providers to optimize their treatment experience. Remember, the benefits of treating depression or anxiety often outweigh the risks of side effects for many individuals. Open communication with your healthcare team is key to ensuring the best possible outcomes from your escitalopram treatment.

Side effects of escitalopram – NHS

Like all medicines, escitalopram can cause side effects in some people, but many people have no side effects or only minor ones.

Some of the common side effects of escitalopram will gradually improve as your body gets used to it.

Common side effects

Common side effects of escitalopram happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Feeling sick (nausea)

Try taking escitalopram with or after food. It may also help if you avoid rich or spicy food.

Headaches

Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller.

Headaches should usually go away after the first week of taking escitalopram. Talk to your doctor if they last longer than a week or are severe.

A dry mouth

Chew sugar-free gum or suck sugar-free sweets.

Sweating a lot

Try wearing loose clothing and using a strong anti-perspirant. If this does not control the problem, talk to your doctor. You may need to try a different antidepressant.

Being unable to sleep

Take escitalopram first thing in the morning.

Feeling sleepy

Take escitalopram in the evening and cut down the amount of alcohol you drink. Do not drive, ride a bike or use tools or machinery if you’re feeling sleepy. If this does not help, talk to your doctor.

Feeling tired or weak

Stop what you’re doing and sit or lie down until you feel better. Do not drive, ride a bike or use tools or machinery if you’re feeling tired. Do not drink alcohol as it will make you feel worse.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and any of these side effects bother you or last more than a few days.

Serious side effects

Book an appointment with your doctor if:

• you lose or gain weight without trying
• you get changes in your periods, such as heavy bleeding, spotting or bleeding between periods

Call your doctor or contact 111 now if:

• you have constant headaches, long-lasting confusion or weakness, or frequent muscle cramps – these can all be signs of low sodium levels in your blood
• you have a high temperature, feel agitated or confused, or you’re trembling and twitching – this could be a sign of serotonin syndrome
• you start coughing up blood or have blood in your pee
• you have black or red poo or blood in your vomit – these can be signs of bleeding from the gut
• you are bleeding from the gums, or have bruises that appear without a reason or get bigger

Go to 111. nhs.uk or call 111.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

• you get painful erections that last longer than 2 hours – this may happen even when you’re not having sex
• you have severe dizziness or pass out
• you get any bleeding that’s severe or you cannot stop, such as cuts or nosebleeds that do not stop within 10 minutes
• you have thoughts about harming yourself or ending your life

Find your nearest A&E

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to escitalopram.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

• you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
• you’re wheezing
• you get tightness in the chest or throat
• you have trouble breathing or talking
• your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling

You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Sexual side effects

The good effects of escitalopram may, after a while, improve your sex life as your mood lifts and you become interested in life and relationships again.

Some of the possible sexual side effects include:

• painful erections and problems getting an erection and ejaculating
• vaginal bleeding and not reaching orgasm the same way as before
• a lower sex drive

Sexual side effects usually pass after the first couple of weeks. However, very rarely, they can be long lasting and may not get better even after stopping the medicine.

If these happen and are a problem for you, go back to your doctor to see if there’s another treatment you can try.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of escitalopram. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 24 February 2022

Next review due: 24 February 2025

What are the side effects of Lexapro?

Doctors prescribe Lexapro for anxiety and depression. It can cause nausea, dizziness, and other side effects in adults. Lexapro can also potentially cause severe side effects, such as suicidal thoughts, and make depression worse.

If you have depression or generalized anxiety disorder, your doctor may want to give you Lexapro. This drug can be very effective in treating either condition. But like all drugs, it may cause side effects. Some of these may only be bothersome, while others may be severe and impact your health.

Learning about the side effects can help you decide if the drug is right for you. Here’s an overview of the side effects Lexapro can cause.

Lexapro is a prescription drug. It’s available as an oral tablet and an oral liquid solution. It’s approved for use in adults and children 12 years and older.

The medication belongs to the class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the amount of the chemical serotonin in your brain. Having more serotonin helps decrease the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Lexapro is not considered a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). MAOIs work by slowing down the breakdown of serotonin and dopamine, another chemical in your brain. This also helps alleviate symptoms of depression. However, MAOIs have a higher risk of side effects and drug interactions than SSRIs such as Lexapro.

SSRIs, including Lexapro, are tolerated well compared to other types of antidepressants. In general, you may have more side effects if you take a higher dosage of the drug. At a high dosage, Lexapro is more likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea.

Common side effects

The side effects of Lexapro seem to be the same in both men and women. The side effects are slightly different for adults and children.

Adult side effects can include:

• nausea
• sleepiness
• weakness
• dizziness
• anxiety
• sleeping trouble
• sexual problems, such as decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction
• sweating
• shaking
• loss of appetitive
• dry mouth
• constipation
• infection
• yawning

The side effects for children and adolescents can include the above, plus:

• increased thirst
• abnormal increase in muscle movement or agitation
• nosebleeds
• trouble urinating
• heavy menstrual periods
• slowed growth and weight change

There have been some cases of decreased appetite and weight loss with the use of Lexapro in children and adolescents. Your child’s doctor may check their height and weight during treatment.

People with depression tend to have a low appetite and reduced body weight. In adults, some sources say Lexapro may cause a small amount of weight gain. However, if you gain weight, your weight may just be evening out because your depression is better managed and your appetite has returned. Other people lose weight when they’re taking Lexapro. The increase in serotonin may lead to loss of appetite.

Most of these side effects are mild. They should eventually go away on their own without treatment. If they’re more severe or don’t go away, tell your doctor.

Boxed warning side effects

A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Lexapro may increase suicidal thoughts or actions. This risk is higher in in children, teenagers, or young adults. This is more likely to happen within the first few months of treatment or during dosage changes.

Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms, or call 911 or local emergency services if the symptoms are new, worse, or worrisome:

• attempts to commit suicide
• acting on dangerous impulses
• aggressive or violent actions
• thoughts about suicide or dying
• new or worse depression
• new or worse anxiety or panic attacks
• feeling restless, angry, or irritable
• trouble sleeping
• increased activity (doing more than what is normal for you)
• other unusual changes in your behavior or mood

Other serious side effects

Lexapro can also cause other serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 or local emergency services if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.

Severe allergic reactions

You should not take Lexapro if you’re allergic to it, its ingredients, or the antidepressant Celexa. Symptoms can include:

• breathing trouble
• swelling of your face, tongue, eyes, or mouth
• severe rash, hives (itchy welts), or blisters that may come on with fever or joint pain

Seizures or convulsions

There have been reports of some people having seizures while taking Lexapro. People with a history of seizures are at higher risk.

Serotonin syndrome

This is a serious condition. It happens when the levels of serotonin in your body get too high. It’s more likely to occur if you also take other drugs that increase serotonin, such as other antidepressants or lithium. Symptoms can include:

• agitation
• hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t real)
• coma (loss of consciousness)
• coordination problems, overactive reflexes, or muscle twitching
• racing heart rate
• high or low blood pressure
• sweating or fever
• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• muscle stiffness

Low salt levels

Lexapro may cause low salt levels in your body. This may be more likely to occur in seniors, people who take water pills, or people who are dehydrated. This side effect may cause:

• headache
• confusion
• trouble concentrating
• thinking or memory problems
• weakness
• unsteadiness that can lead to falls
• seizures

Manic episodes

If you have bipolar disorder, Lexapro may cause you to have a manic episode. Taking Lexapro without another drug for bipolar disorder may trigger an episode. Symptoms can include:

• greatly increased energy
• severe sleeping trouble
• racing thoughts
• reckless behavior
• unusually grand ideas
• excessive happiness or irritability
• talking quickly or more than normal

Vision problems

Lexapro may dilate your pupils. This may trigger a glaucoma attack, even if you don’t have a history of eye problems. Symptoms can include:

• eye pain
• changes in your vision
• swelling or redness in or around your eye

Side effects with other health conditions

If you have certain health conditions, you likely should not take Lexapro. In some cases, your doctor may lower your dosage or watch you more closely during your treatment with it. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions before taking Lexapro.

• A history of suicidal thoughts or behaviors—Lexapro can increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior, especially in children, teens, and young adults.
• Bipolar disorder—if you take Lexapro without taking other medications for bipolar disorder, Lexapro may bring on a manic episode.
• Seizures—this drug may cause seizures and make your seizure disorder worse.
• Glaucoma—this drug may bring on a glaucoma attack.
• Low salt levels—Lexapro can further lower your salt levels.
• Pregnancy—it isn’t known if Lexapro will harm your unborn baby.
• Breastfeeding—Lexapro may pass into breast milk and cause side effects in a child who is breastfed.

Certain medications can interact with Lexapro. Be sure to tell your doctor about all over-the-counter and prescription drugs, supplements, and herbs you take. Lexapro may interact with the following drugs:

• blood thinners such as warfarin to increase your risk of bleeding
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin to increase your risk of bleeding
• other drugs used to treat depression to increase the level of serotonin in your body, which can cause serotonin syndrome

Lexapro is a powerful drug used to treat depression and anxiety. While it can be very effective, it may also cause side effects. Be sure to tell your doctor about other health conditions you have and medications you take before starting Lexapro. This information can help your doctor reduce your chance of side effects. Also tell your doctor if you do have any side effects. If you can’t tolerate the effects, your doctor may change your medication. Keep in mind that Lexapro and other drugs in its class cause many of the same side effects.

Escitalopram: Pediatric Medication | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Pediatric Medicine

Share

This document, provided by Lexicomp ^® , contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.

Trade names: USA

Lexapro

Brand names: Canada

ACH-Escitalopram; ACT Escitalopram ODT; AG-Escitalopram; APO Escitalopram; Auro Escitalopram; BIO-Escitalopram; Cipralex; KYE-Escitalopram; M-Escitalopram; Mar-Escitalopram; MINT-Escitalopram; MYLAN-Escitalopram; NAT-Escitalopram; NRA-Escitalopram; PMS-Escitalopram; PMSC-Escitalopram; RIVA Escitalopram; SANDOZ Escitalopram; TARO-Escitalopram; TEVA-Escitalopram

Warning

• Drugs like this have increased the likelihood of suicidal thoughts or actions in children and young people. This risk may be higher in people who have tried or had suicidal thoughts in the past. All people taking this drug must be closely monitored. If you develop or worsen disorders such as depression, nervousness, anxiety, grouchiness, panic attacks, and changes in mood or behavior, contact your doctor immediately. Contact your doctor immediately if you have suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts.
• This drug is not approved for use in children of all ages. Check with your doctor to make sure this drug is right for your child.

What is this drug used for?

• Used to treat depression.
• Used to treat anxiety.
• This drug can be given to children for other indications. Consult your doctor.

What do I need to tell the doctor BEFORE my child takes this drug?

• If your child has an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell the doctor about the allergy and how it manifested itself in the child.
• If the child is receiving any of the following drugs: linezolid or methylene blue.
• If your child is taking any of these drugs: citalopram or pimozide.
• If your child has taken medications for depression or certain other illnesses in the last 14 days. These include isocarboxazid, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine. An episode of very high blood pressure may occur.

This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines your child is taking (prescription and over-the-counter, natural, and vitamins) and any health problems. You need to make sure it is safe to take this drug for your child’s illnesses and in combination with other drugs they are already taking. Do not start, stop taking, or change the dosage of any drug your child is taking without the doctor’s approval.

What do I need to know or do while my child is taking this drug?

• Tell all health care providers who care for your child that your child is taking this drug. These are your child’s doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
• Have your child avoid tasks or activities that require attention until you see how this drug works for your child. This includes cycling, playing sports, or using items such as scissors, lawn mowers, electric scooters, toy cars, or motorized vehicles.
• Do not stop giving this drug to your child abruptly without talking to the doctor. This can increase your child’s risk of side effects. If needed, this drug should be stopped gradually for your child as directed by the doctor.
• Alcohol can interact with this drug. Make sure your child does not drink alcohol.
• Check with your child’s doctor before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs that may slow your child’s progress.
• Depression may improve sleep and appetite quickly after starting this drug. It may take up to 4 weeks to relieve other symptoms of depression.
• This drug may increase the risk of bleeding. Sometimes bleeding can be life-threatening. Consult your doctor.
• This drug may cause low sodium levels. Very low sodium levels can be life-threatening, leading to convulsions, fainting, difficulty breathing, or death.
• In some cases, the drug may affect the growth rate in children and adolescents. They may need regular growth rate checks. Consult your doctor.

If your daughter is pregnant or breastfeeding:

• Consult physician if your daughter is pregnant, pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for your daughter and her baby will need to be discussed.
• Taking this drug during the third trimester of pregnancy may cause some health problems in the newborn. Consult your doctor.

What side effects should I report to my child’s doctor right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Although rare, some people may have very serious and sometimes deadly side effects of this drug. Call your child’s doctor right away or get medical help if your child has any of the following signs or symptoms that could be associated with a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly accompanied by fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
• Signs of low sodium levels such as headache, trouble concentrating, memory impairment, confused thinking, weakness, seizures, problems with balance.
• signs of bleeding, such as vomiting or coughing up blood; vomiting of the type of coffee grounds; blood in the urine; black, red, or tarry stools; bleeding from the gums; non-cyclic vaginal bleeding; bruises that appear or increase for no reason; bleeding that you cannot stop.
• Seizures.
• Fever or chills.
• Painful erections or erections that last more than 4 hours.
• Some patients may be at increased risk of eye problems when using this drug. Your child’s doctor may order an eye examination to see if your child is at increased risk for these eye problems. Call your doctor right away if your child has eye pain, vision changes, swelling, or redness around the eye.
• A severe and sometimes deadly complication called serotonin syndrome can occur. This risk may be increased if the child is also taking certain other drugs. Call your child’s healthcare provider right away if your child has agitation, balance problems, confusion, hallucinations, high fever, tachycardia or abnormal heart rhythm, flushing, muscle twitching or stiffness, seizures, tremors or tremors, excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, a very severe headache.

If your child is or may be sexually active:

• Against the background of taking such drugs, violations of sexual function were noted. These included decreased interest in sex, problems achieving orgasm, problems ejaculating, or problems getting or maintaining an erection. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

Any drug can cause side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Contact your child’s doctor or seek medical attention if any of these or other side effects bother your child or if they persist:

• Feeling dizzy, drowsy, tired or weak.
• Headache.
• Nausea.
• Sleep disorders.
• Dry mouth.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Excessive sweating.
• Flu-like symptoms.
• Runny nose.
• Yawn.

This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, ask your child’s doctor. Talk to your child’s doctor about side effects.

You can report side effects to the National Health Board.

What is the best way to give this drug?

Give this drug to your child as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.

All forms:

• Give this drug with or without food.
• Keep giving this drug as directed by your child’s doctor or other health care provider, even if your child is feeling well.

Oral solution:

• Liquid doses should be measured with caution. Use the dispenser that comes with the medication. If the dispenser is not provided in the package, ask the pharmacist for a dosing agent for this drug.

What if my child misses a dose of medication?

• Give the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is time for your child to take the next dose, do not take the missed dose and then go back to your child’s normal schedule.
• Do not give a double dose at the same time or additional doses.

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

• Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug recycling programs may be in place in your area.

General information about medicines

• If your child’s symptoms or health problems do not improve, or worsen, contact your child’s doctor.
• Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child.
• Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your child’s doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
• If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.

Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability

This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications. This information is not a guarantee that a treatment or drug is safe, effective, or approved for a particular patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its subsidiaries disclaim any warranties or liabilities related to this information or its use. The use of this information is subject to the Terms of Use found at https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/know/clinical-effectiveness-terms.

Last revision date

2021-07-22

Copyright

© UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors, 2023. All rights reserved.

Date last updated

Monday, December 12, 2022

What are the side effects of Lexapro? – Health Professional 2023

Introduction

If you have depression or a generalized anxiety disorder, your doctor may want to give you Lexapro. This drug can be very effective in treating any condition. But like all medicines, it can cause side effects. Some of them can only be annoying, while others can be serious and affect your health.

Learning about side effects can help you decide if a drug is right for you. Here is a brief overview of the side effects Lexapro may cause.

Lexapro What is Lexapro?

Lexapro is a prescription drug available as an oral tablet and oral liquid solution approved for use in adults and children 12 years of age and older.

The drug belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the amount of the chemical serotonin in your brain. Having more serotonin helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Lexapro not is considered a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). MAOIs work by slowing down the breakdown of serotonin and dopamine, another chemical in your brain. It also helps relieve symptoms of depression. However, MAOIs have a higher risk of side effects and drug interactions than SSRIs such as Lexapro.

Side effects Cost effects Lexapro

SSRIs, including Lexapro, are well tolerated compared to other types of antidepressants. In general, you may have more side effects if you take a higher dosage of the drug. At high doses, Lexapro is more likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea.

Common side effects

The side effects of Lexapro appear to be the same in both men and women. Side effects are slightly different for adults and children.

Adult side effects may include:

• nausea
• drowsiness
• weakness
• dizziness
• anxiety
• dream
• Sexual problems such as decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction
• sweating
• shaking
• loss of appetite
• dry mouth
• constipation
• infection
• yawning

Side effects for children and adolescents may include the above plus:

• increased thirst
• abnormal increase in muscle movement or agitation
• epistaxis
• urinary problems
• heavy menstrual periods
• stunted growth and weight change

There have been some reports of decreased appetite and weight loss with Lexapro in children and adolescents. Your child’s doctor may check their height and weight during treatment.

People with depression tend to have low appetite and weight loss. In adults, some sources say that Lexapro may cause slight weight gain. However, if you gain weight, your weight may just be evening because your depression is better managed and your appetite has returned. Other people lose weight when they take Lexapro. An increase in serotonin can lead to loss of appetite.

Most of these side effects are mild. They should eventually go away on their own without treatment. If they are more severe or don’t go away, let your doctor know.

Boxed Side Effects

The boxed warning is the most severe warning from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Lexapro may increase thoughts or actions of suicide. This risk is higher in children, adolescents, or young adults. This is most likely to happen during the first few months of treatment or during dosage changes.

Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms, or call 911 or local emergency services if symptoms are new, worse, or worrying:

• trying to commit suicide
• acting on dangerous impulses
• thoughts of suicide or death
• new or worse depression
• new or worse anxieties or panic attacks
• feeling restless, angry or irritable
• sleep problem
• increased (more than normal for you)
• other unusual changes in your behavior or mood
• Other serious side effects

Lexapro may also cause other serious side effects.

Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 or local emergency services if your symptoms are life-threatening or if you think you have a medical emergency.

Severe allergic reactions

You should not take Lexapro if you are allergic to it, its ingredients, or the Celexa antidepressant. Symptoms may include:

trouble breathing

• swelling of the face, tongue, eyes or mouth
• severe rash, hives (itchy welts) or blisters that may develop with fever or joint pain
• Seizures or convulsions

There have been reports of some people having seizures while taking Lexapro. People with a history of seizures are at higher risk.

Serotonin syndrome

This is a serious condition. It happens when the level of serotonin in your body gets too high. This is more likely if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin, such as other antidepressants or lithium. Symptoms may include:

agitation

• hallucinations (seeing or hearing that are not real)
• coma (loss of consciousness)
• coordination problems, overactive reflexes or muscle twitches
• racing heart rate
• high or low blood pressure
• sweating or fever
• nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• muscle stiffness
• Low salt levels

Lexapro can cause low salt levels in your body.

It is likely to occur in older people, people taking water pills, or people who are dehydrated. This side effect may cause:

headache

• confusion
• concentration problem
• thinking or memory problems
• weakness
• instability that may cause a fall
• withdrawals
• Manic episodes > If you have bipolar disorder, Lexapro may cause you to have a manic episode. Taking Lexapro without another drug for bipolar disorder can cause an episode. Symptoms may include:

greatly increased energy

heavy sleeping problem

• racing thoughts
• reckless behavior
• extraordinarily great ideas
• excessive happiness or irritability
• speaking quickly or more than usual > Vision problems
• Lexapro can expand your students. This can trigger an attack of glaucoma even if you don’t have eye problems. Symptoms may include:
• eye pain

changes in your vision

swelling or redness of the eyes or around the eyes

• Side effects in other health conditions
• If you have certain health conditions, you probably shouldn’t take Lexapro. In some cases, your doctor may lower your dosage or monitor you closely during treatment. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions before taking Lexapro.
• History of suicidal thoughts or behavior – Lexapro may increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior, especially in children, adolescents and young adults.

Bipolar Disorder – If you are taking Lexapro without taking other medicines for bipolar disorder, Lexapro may cause a manic episode.

Seizures – this drug may cause seizures and make seizures worse.

• Glaucoma – this drug may cause an attack of glaucoma.
• Low salt levels – Lexapro may further reduce salt levels.
• Pregnancy – It is not known if Lexapro will harm your unborn baby.
• Breastfeeding – Lexapro may pass into breast milk and cause side effects in a breastfed baby.
• InteractionsInteractions with other drugs
• Some medicines may interact with Lexapro. Be sure to tell your doctor about all over-the-counter and prescription drugs, supplements, and herbs you are taking. Lexapro may interact with the following drugs:
• blood thinners such as warfarin to increase the risk of bleeding

non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin to increase the risk of bleeding

other drugs used to treat depression to increase serotonin levels in the body, which can cause serotonin syndrome

• TakeawayTalk to your doctor
• Lexapro is a powerful drug used to treat depression and anxiety. While this can be very effective, it can also cause side effects. Be sure to tell your doctor about other health conditions you have and any medications you are taking before starting Lexapro. This information can help your doctor reduce the chance of side effects. Also tell your doctor if you have any side effects. If you cannot tolerate the consequences, your doctor may change your medication. Be aware that Lexapro and other drugs in its class cause many of the same side effects.