How long do lexapro side effects last

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Duration of Lexapro Side Effects

Introduction to Lexapro and Its Use

Lexapro, known generically as escitalopram, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety. It is well-regarded for its efficacy and tolerability, often providing relief from depressive symptoms within the first or second week of treatment .

Common Side Effects of Lexapro

While Lexapro is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some patients. The most frequently reported side effects include nausea, insomnia, ejaculation disorder, somnolence, increased sweating, and fatigue. These side effects are typically mild and occur in a small percentage of patients .

Duration of Side Effects

Initial Side Effects

Many patients experience side effects shortly after beginning Lexapro. These initial side effects often diminish within the first few weeks of treatment as the body adjusts to the medication. Clinical trials have shown that the incidence of side effects for the 10 mg daily dose of Lexapro is comparable to that of a placebo, indicating that side effects are generally manageable and temporary .

Withdrawal Symptoms

When discontinuing Lexapro, withdrawal symptoms can occur, especially if the medication is stopped abruptly. These symptoms can include dizziness, sensory disturbances, sleep disturbances, and flu-like symptoms. It is recommended to taper off the medication gradually under the guidance of a healthcare provider to minimize these withdrawal effects .

Duration of Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms typically subside once about 90% of the medication has been eliminated from the body. This process can take several days to weeks, depending on the dosage and duration of use. During this period, the body readjusts to the absence of the medication, and symptoms gradually diminish .

Conclusion

In summary, while Lexapro is effective and generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects, particularly in the initial stages of treatment. These side effects often resolve within a few weeks. When discontinuing Lexapro, it is crucial to do so gradually to minimize withdrawal symptoms, which can last from days to weeks. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen to ensure a safe and effective transition.

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Most relevant research papers on this topic

SSRI withdrawal.

Stopping Lexapro gradually with a prescribing provider can minimize withdrawal symptoms and help ensure a safe transition.

1996·

1citation

·T. R. Mareth et al.

News in Brief

Lexapro is an effective and well-tolerated SSRI for treating major depressive disorder, offering quick relief with few side effects and low drug interactions.

RCT

2002·

0citations

Efficacy and safety of generic escitalopram versus Lexapro in the treatment of major depression: a multicenter double-blinded randomized controlled trial

Generic escitalopram is as effective and safe as Lexapro in treating moderate to severe major depression in China, with careful monitoring of suicidal events.

RCTVery Rigorous Journal

2013·

4citations

·Yi-min Yu et al.

The efficacy of escitalopram in major depressive disorder: a multicenter randomized, placebo-controlled double-blind study

Both generic escitalopram and Lexapro effectively treat major depressive disorder, with both showing potent efficacy in reducing depression and anxiety levels.

RCTLarge Human Trial

2021·

3citations

·Xiaoliang Wang et al.

Escitalopram for the management of major depressive disorder: a review of its efficacy, safety, and patient acceptability

Escitalopram is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for major depressive disorder, with high patient acceptability and high continuity in antidepressant drug therapy.

Systematic ReviewRigorous Journal

2012·

69citations

·E. Kirino

Creating a mouse academic research commons

PatientsLikeMe may be able to detect drug or treatment problems that have not shown up in clinical trials, potentially improving patient care.

2009·

10citations

·D. Einhorn et al.

Fast-scan cyclic voltammetry analysis of dynamic serotonin reponses to acute escitalopram.

Dynamic serotonin responses to SSRIs like escitalopram in mice may contribute to increased depression or suicidality after treatment onset.

Non-RCTAnimal Study

2013·

55citations

·K. Wood et al.

Efficacy and safety of generic escitalopram (Lexacure®) in patients with major depressive disorder: a 6-week multicenter, randomized, rater-blinded, escitalopram-comparative, non-inferiority study

Generic escitalopram is a safe and effective initial treatment for patients with major depressive disorder, and may be considered as an additional therapeutic option.

RCTRigorous Journal

2015·

3citations

·Jong-Hyun Jeong et al.

Dual-Source CT: Less Radiation, More Resolution

Lexapro may cause nausea, ejaculation disorder, insomnia, fatigue, decreased libido, and anorgasmia, but these events are less common than those in placebo-treated patients.

RCTLarge Human Trial

2008·

0citations

·B. Dixon

Comparison of Bioavailability and Bioequivalence of Generic and Brand Name Formulations of Escitalopram Oxalate Tablets in Healthy Chinese Population Under Fasting and Fed Conditions

Escitalopram oxalate 20 mg tablets produced in China were bioequivalent to the reference formulation (Lexapro®) in healthy Chinese male and female subjects under fasting and fed conditions.

RCTRigorous Journal

2020·

1citation

·Qiuying Li et al.

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