See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lexapro
Common Side Effects of Lexapro
Lexapro (escitalopram), an SSRI antidepressant, often causes mild side effects that affect more than 1 in 10 users. These include nausea, headache, dry mouth, insomnia, fatigue, drowsiness, increased sweating, and diarrhea. Many resolve within weeks as the body adjusts.[1][2]
Sexual side effects are frequent, impacting up to 14% of users: decreased libido, ejaculation disorders in men, and orgasm difficulties in women. These can persist even after stopping the drug for some people.1
Serious Side Effects and Warnings
Seek immediate medical help for rare but severe reactions like serotonin syndrome (symptoms: agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle stiffness), suicidal thoughts (especially in young adults under 25 during initial treatment), or allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing trouble).[1][2]
Other risks include abnormal bleeding, low sodium levels (hyponatremia, causing confusion or seizures), manic episodes in bipolar patients, and glaucoma worsening. Abruptly stopping Lexapro can trigger withdrawal: dizziness, irritability, electric shock sensations.2
How Long Do Side Effects Last?
Most common effects peak in the first 1-2 weeks and fade by week 4. Sexual dysfunction may continue longer. Withdrawal symptoms from discontinuation typically last 1-3 weeks but can extend months in heavy users.1
Side Effects by User Group
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Possible birth defects or newborn complications like persistent pulmonary hypertension; passes into breast milk, potentially causing infant sedation.[2]
Elderly: Higher hyponatremia and fall risk from dizziness.[1]
Children/teens: FDA black box warning for increased suicidality; also growth suppression possible.[2]
Managing Side Effects
Start at low dose (5-10 mg) to minimize issues. Taking with food reduces nausea. For sexual side effects, doctors may add bupropion or switch drugs. Never stop suddenly—taper over weeks.1
Lexapro vs. Other SSRIs
Lexapro has a lower side effect profile than older SSRIs like Paxil (fewer withdrawal issues) or Zoloft (less diarrhea), but similar sexual effects to Prozac. It's often chosen for its tolerability in anxiety treatment.3
[1]: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021323s047lbl.pdf (Lexapro FDA Label)
[2]: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/escitalopram-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20063707