Does Lexapro Cause Sweating?
Yes, Lexapro (escitalopram), an SSRI antidepressant, commonly causes increased sweating, known medically as hyperhidrosis. Clinical trials reported it in 4-11% of patients, higher than placebo rates of 2-3%.[1][2] Post-marketing reports confirm this as a frequent side effect, often starting within weeks of use and persisting in some cases.[3]
How Common Is Sweating on Lexapro?
Sweating affects up to 14% of users in real-world data, ranking among the top 10 side effects. It's dose-dependent, more likely at 10-20 mg daily. Night sweats are particularly noted, disrupting sleep for some.[1][4]
Why Does Lexapro Cause Sweating?
SSRIs like Lexapro boost serotonin, which influences the hypothalamus—the brain's temperature regulator. This can impair sweat gland control, leading to excessive perspiration even without heat or activity. Serotonin also affects norepinephrine, amplifying sweat response.[2][5]
How Long Does Sweating Last?
It often begins 1-4 weeks after starting and may improve after 4-8 weeks as the body adjusts. However, 20-30% of users experience ongoing issues, sometimes requiring dose changes or switching meds.[3][6] Stopping Lexapro typically resolves it within days to weeks, though withdrawal can temporarily worsen sweating.
What Do Patients Report About Sweating?
User forums and reviews describe profuse daytime sweating, drenched clothes, and social embarrassment. Many call it "debilitating," with some quitting Lexapro over it. Women report it more during perimenopause.[4][7]
Can You Manage Sweating on Lexapro?
- Antiperspirants with aluminum chloride (e.g., Drysol) applied at night.
- Low-dose glycopyrrolate or oxybutynin to block sweat glands.
- Lifestyle tweaks: breathable clothes, cool environments, avoiding triggers like caffeine.
- Doctor options: dose reduction, adding bupropion, or switching to SNRIs like venlafaxine (which may cause less sweating).[6][8]
Consult a doctor before changes, as abrupt stops risk withdrawal.
Is Sweating a Reason to Stop Lexapro?
Not always—it's usually mild and tolerable, but severe cases warrant discussion. No link to serious outcomes like dehydration unless extreme.[3]
Lexapro vs. Other Antidepressants for Sweating
| Drug | Sweating Risk |
|------|---------------|
| Lexapro (SSRI) | High (4-14%)[1] |
| Zoloft (SSRI) | Similar (7-12%)[2] |
| Prozac (SSRI) | Moderate (5-10%)[2] |
| Wellbutrin (NDRI) | Low (<5%)[8] |
| Effexor (SNRI) | High but sometimes less than SSRIs[6] |
Switching to Wellbutrin often resolves it.[8]
[1]: FDA Lexapro Label
[2]: Drugs.com - Lexapro Side Effects
[3]: Mayo Clinic - Escitalopram
[4]: WebMD User Reviews
[5]: PubMed - SSRI Hyperhidrosis Mechanism
[6]: UpToDate - Antidepressant Side Effects
[7]: Reddit r/Lexapro Discussions
[8]: American Family Physician - Managing SSRI Side Effects