Patient handout
Escitalopram (Lexapro)
You have been prescribed escitalopram. This page explains what it is, what to expect, and when to call.
What it is
Escitalopram is an SSRI, a type of antidepressant. It is used for depression and generalized anxiety, and often for panic and social anxiety. It raises serotonin, a chemical that helps regulate mood and worry. It is not habit-forming and is one of the best-tolerated SSRIs.
How to take it
- Take it once a day at the same time, with or without food.
- Morning is usual. If it makes you drowsy, switch to bedtime.
- If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is close. Do not double up.
- A dose increase after a few weeks is common and planned.
What to expect, and when
- Week 1 to 2: side effects, if any, come first. Mood has usually not changed yet.
- Week 2 to 4: sleep, worry, and energy often begin to improve.
- Week 4 to 8: full benefit at the right dose. If little has changed, the plan can be adjusted.
- Plan to stay on it for at least six to twelve months after you feel well.
Common side effects
Most are mild and fade within one to two weeks: nausea, headache, dry mouth, sweating, sleepiness or trouble sleeping, and mild jitteriness. Sexual side effects such as lower desire or delayed orgasm can persist and are worth mentioning. Weight change is usually small.
Call the office the same day if
- New or worsening thoughts of hurting yourself, especially early on or after a dose change (uncommon but important, particularly under age 25)
- Unusual restlessness, racing thoughts, or little need for sleep
- Fever with agitation, fast heartbeat, muscle twitching, or confusion (possible serotonin syndrome)
- Fainting, palpitations, or an irregular heartbeat, especially at higher doses
- Rash, swelling, or trouble breathing (call 911)
Stopping
Stopping escitalopram suddenly can cause dizziness, nausea, irritability, and electric-shock sensations. Not dangerous, but unpleasant. When it is time to stop, we lower the dose gradually together.
Good to know
- Keep alcohol light while starting; it can worsen depression and side effects.
- Tell other prescribers and your pharmacist you take escitalopram. Check before adding tramadol, triptans, St. John's wort, or other antidepressants.
- If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, tell us so we can plan together.
Questions about this medication?
Alice Tran Psychiatric Care · 3060 Williams Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22031
Call: (703) 791-9099 · Text: (703) 791-9031 · info@alicetrannp.com · alicetrannp.com
This handout is for education and is not a substitute for the instructions you received at your visit. Follow the dose on your prescription label. If anything here differs from what you were told, call the office. In an emergency, call 911. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.