When taking Lexapro to manage anxiety, some of the most common side effects include nausea, fatigue, and changes in weight. While these effects are generally mild, they can vary from person to person. At 449 Recovery, we understand the importance of being informed about your treatment. In this blog, we’ll explore these side effects in more detail, address other frequently asked questions about Lexapro, and offer guidance on how to manage your symptoms while on the path to recovery.
What Is Lexapro and How Does 449 Recovery Use It to Treat Anxiety?
At 449 Recovery, we understand the complexities of anxiety disorders and the importance of personalized treatment plans. Lexapro, also known as escitalopram, is one of the medications we may recommend as part of a comprehensive approach to treating anxiety. Lexapro belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD).
Lexapro works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being. At 449 Recovery, our experienced medical team carefully evaluates each client’s needs to determine if Lexapro is the right fit for their treatment plan. While Lexapro can be highly effective, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects, particularly in the early stages of treatment.
What Are the Side Effects of Lexapro in the First Week?
Starting a new medication like Lexapro can be a significant step in your recovery journey, but it may come with some initial side effects. During the first week of taking Lexapro, you might experience:
It’s common to feel a bit queasy when beginning Lexapro. This side effect is usually mild and often subsides as your body adjusts to the medication.
You may feel more tired or sleepy than usual during the first few days. At 449 Recovery, we recommend monitoring your energy levels and avoiding activities that require full alertness, such as driving, until you know how Lexapro affects you.
Some clients report a dry mouth, especially in the early days of treatment. Staying hydrated and chewing sugar-free gum can help alleviate this symptom.
Headaches are another potential side effect in the first week. If this occurs, our team can suggest ways to manage it, such as staying hydrated or using over-the-counter pain relievers.
Paradoxically, some people may experience a temporary increase in anxiety when starting Lexapro. This is often short-lived and should improve as your body adjusts.
At 449 Recovery, we prioritize your comfort and well-being. Our team is here to support you through any initial side effects and can provide strategies to help you manage them.
What Are the Side Effects of Lexapro in Women?
Women may experience some unique side effects when taking Lexapro. While these side effects can also occur in men, they may be more noticeable in women due to hormonal differences and other factors. Some of the side effects that women may experience include:
Menstrual Changes: Lexapro can sometimes cause changes in menstrual cycles, including irregular periods or changes in flow. Although this is not a common side effect, it’s important to discuss it with our medical team if you notice any changes.
Sexual Side Effects: Lexapro, like many SSRIs, can lead to sexual side effects, such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving orgasm. These effects can be distressing, but our team at 449 Recovery is committed to helping you manage them.
Weight Changes: Weight gain or loss can occur while taking Lexapro. Some women may notice a change in their weight, especially during long-term treatment. At 449 Recovery, we provide nutritional counseling and support to help you maintain a healthy weight.
Bone Health: There is some evidence that long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro may impact bone density in women, particularly postmenopausal women. We consider all aspects of your health in our treatment plans and will monitor any long-term risks.
Our team at 449 Recovery is dedicated to addressing the specific needs of women in our program. If you experience any of these side effects, we will work with you to adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Does Lexapro Cause Weight Gain?
Weight gain is a concern for many individuals taking Lexapro, and it is indeed a potential side effect. However, not everyone will experience weight changes, and the impact on weight can vary:
Initial Weight Loss: Some clients may experience a decrease in appetite and slight weight loss when they first start Lexapro. This is more common during the early stages of treatment.
Long-Term Weight Gain: Over time, some people may notice gradual weight gain. This could be due to changes in metabolism or increased appetite as anxiety or depression symptoms improve. At 449 Recovery, we emphasize the importance of balanced nutrition and regular physical activity as part of our holistic treatment approach.
Managing Weight: If weight gain becomes a concern, our team can help you manage it through personalized dietary advice, exercise programs, and, if necessary, adjusting your medication. We are committed to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy weight while managing your anxiety.
Can You Stop Taking Lexapro?
Stopping Lexapro should never be done abruptly and always under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, also known as discontinuation syndrome. These symptoms can include:
Dizziness: A common withdrawal symptom that can be quite unsettling.
Irritability: Mood swings and irritability can occur as your body readjusts to the absence of the medication.
Nausea: Similar to initial side effects, nausea can occur during withdrawal.
Flu-like Symptoms: Fatigue, headaches, and muscle aches are some of the flu-like symptoms that people may experience when discontinuing Lexapro.
At 449 Recovery, we create a tapering schedule that gradually reduces your Lexapro dosage, minimizing the risk of withdrawal symptoms. Our team will support you every step of the way to ensure a smooth transition.
Managing Lexapro Side Effects with 449 Recovery
Lexapro is an effective tool in treating anxiety and depression, but it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects. At 449 Recovery, we prioritize your health and well-being by providing comprehensive support to manage these side effects.
If you have any questions about Lexapro or need help managing side effects, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 449 Recovery. We’re here to help you navigate your treatment and support your journey to better mental health.
Dr. Warren Taff MD, graduated from the University of Birmingham, England School of Medicine, with a BA from Rutgers University. He then went on to UCLA School of Public Health in Los Angeles Health and Human Services and received an MPH. He also attended an internship in internal medicine, with the Veterans Administration. Dr. Taff’s residency includes General Psychiatry at USC, with elective residencies at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, Australia, and Royal College of Psychiatry. Board certifications include American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Taff has extensive experience in both psychiatry and addiction medicine, extending from 1979 to present. He has held professional titles that include Chief of Staff and Medical Directorship in both hospitals and private sectors.
