How Long Does It Take for Lexapro to Work?
Lexapro, a generic version of escitalopram, is one of the more commonly prescribed antidepressants [1]. The full benefits of Lexapro begin around 4 to 6 weeks, although some might spot smaller changes earlier on. such as better sleep or more energy, perhaps after the first week or two. But for most, actual improvement with mood or anxiety needs a month, sometimes even longer.
This page covers how Lexapro works, what you might notice at first, how long does It take for Lexapro to work and when is a good time to take it.
How Does Lexapro Work?
Lexapro raises the serotonin levels in one system which influences the brain and balances mood over time, managing symptoms of depression and anxiety. The main ingredient in lexapro is escitalopram, an SSRI or Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor [2]. It is the main driving force behind this influence on the system.
When does lexapro start working:
Mechanism
First and foremost, serotonin is a brain chemical tied to things like mood, sleep, and memory. In depression or anxiety, off serotonin levels are sometimes the main physiological cause, Escitalopram medications can influence the brain pathway by blocking too much serotonin [3].
Effect
Lexapro is fast-acting. It starts raising serotonin pretty quickly, though the beneficial effects don’t show up right away. Some early signs may begin to show up. e.g. early changes, like better sleep or a bit more energy, sometimes show up after a week or two [4]. However, for most, though, the real shift takes about four to six weeks. Ultimately, it depends on individual factors.
Side effects
Escitalopram medication can influence the body to various side effects [5]. Common effects such as nausea, dry mouth, trouble sleeping, tiredness, sweating, and a lower sex drive. These are mild and fade over time, to serious side effects that range from rare to life-threatening in specific cases. These include increased suicidal thoughts, serotonin syndrome, or withdrawal are rare but possible.
Long-term use
Lexapro can be used for months or even years if needed. For some, it’s prescribed for six months to a year after a first episode of depression. Only, stopping suddenly isn’t recommended as it can bring withdrawal symptoms or a return of the old symptoms.
How Long Does It Take For Lexapro To Work?
Lexapro starts raising serotonin pretty much right after you take it, but the main benefits aren’t instant [6].
First changes begin within 7 days to 14 days. In this period, some individuals might notice better sleep, a bit more energy, or improved appetite. The effect reaches its peak around the 3rd week.
On the other hand, 4 to 6 weeks is usually needed for the medication to take full effect. It often starts with bigger improvement changes with mood or less anxiety to really show up. The brain needs time to adjust to the extra serotonin, hence, the process isn’t quick. These are just average timelines, everyone’s individual factors might change this.
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How long does it take for lexapro to work for anxiety: Lexapro usually starts to ease anxiety within 1–2 weeks
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How long does it take for lexapro to work for depression: Full effect on depression is seen in 4–6 weeks, though some people notice early.
Lexapro Dosage and Adjustments
How to Take It
Most adults get started on 10 mg a day. If you’re doing okay after a week but not feeling much better, the dose can go up, always only if your doctor says so. Sometimes you might feel a bit of a change, but not enough to call it a win; in that case, your doctor may keep you at the same dose a little longer before making any changes.
What to Avoid
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First and foremost, if you skip a dose, don’t double up the next time. It is a common misconception about lexapro, that doubling up helps faster. It doesn’t help and can make side effects worse.
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Similarly stopping Lexapro out of nowhere, even if you’re feeling better, isn’t safe. It has proven to cause headaches or weird mood swings. In specific cases, people also experience the sudden reemergence of anxiety and depression.
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Finally, Some meds such as certain painkillers or migraine tablets, don’t mix well with Lexapro. It is highly recommended to let one doctor know the conditions of any prescription.
What Will I Feel When I Start Lexapro?
When starting Lexapro, the benefits show up more slowly, over weeks, not days [7]. However, it’s pretty normal to get some side effects early as the body gets used to the medication. Most of these are mild and usually fade away after a bit.
Here’s how the timeline goes:
When starting Lexapro, The benefits show up more slowly, over weeks, not days. However, it’s pretty normal to get some side effects early as one body gets used to the medication. Most of these are mild and usually fade away after a bit.
Here’s how’s the timeline goes:
First Few Days to One Week
The first week marks the beginning of the influence with various common side effects. These include the typical symptoms, nausea, headaches, dry mouth, trouble sleeping, feeling tired or drowsy, and sweating. As well as constipation and lower sex drive in some specific cases.
Most of these don’t last long, they usually settle down as your system adjusts. Some people might also notice small improvements they were hoping for. The most notable being able to better sleep at night which also increases energy level during the day.
One to Two Weeks
Side effects from the first week may stick around for a bit but often start to get less noticeable. Some folks begin to see early changes, feeling a bit more upbeat, sleeping better, less worry, or just enjoying things more.
Four to Six Weeks and After
The real benefits of Lexapro, such as major changes in mood or anxiety begin after the initial six weeks. Though it might change given any pre-existing condition that includes serotonin levels as well.
These changes tend to build up slowly, first subtly, then more become strong over time. If side effects stick around or there’s no real improvement after six weeks. Here, it’s important to keep taking Lexapro as your doctor recommends, even if you start to feel better.
How Do I Know If Lexapro Is Working?
The most obvious signs that lexapro is working effectively are a noticeable drop in depression. As well as fewer anxiety symptoms after 6 months. These improvements tend to start off small and become clearer over time.
The sign looks as follows:
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First and foremost, every day the mood shifts in a more positive direction.
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After use, some find it easier to handle everyday frustrations or setbacks.
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There is a notable decline in negative thoughts or irritability.
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Paranoia decreases, making daily stress easier to handle.
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Many benefits with focus as Intrusive or racing thoughts begin to quiet down
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Typically, energy levels go up which makes it easier to manage.
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Regain better control, tasks that once felt overwhelming may become manageable.
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Sleep improves energy level, as a better sleep cycle results in fewer problems falling.
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With less daytime grogginess, waking up may start to feel more refreshing.
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Activities begin to feel more worthwhile again.
However, it should be noted, these changes are often gradual, not immediate. In any condition, doubling up the medication hoping for faster results, is highly advised against.
How long can you take Lexapro?
How long one can take Lexapro depends on the treatment plan. Many individuals continue to take Lexapro safely for months or even years [8]. In extreme cases for example, such as chronic or recurring depression using it as a part of years-long treatment plan.
It is often the first medication suggested, after a first episode of depression. For up to 6 to 12 months it is taken continuously to help prevent symptoms from returning. Most people continue to use Lexapro long-term. Particularly, if there’s a history of multiple episodes.
Only stopping lexapro too quickly is important to avoid as it can bring withdrawal symptoms and a return of anxiety or depression. When it’s time to stop Lexapro, doctors usually suggest tapering the dose gradually.
Why does Lexapro cause weight gain?
Lexapro may cause weight gain because it blocks the serotonin transporter. This action increases one’s appetite and slows metabolism in some people [9]. Research shows that about 40% of individuals taking Lexapro or similar antidepressants gain at least 7% of their starting weight. However, it should be noted that Lexapro tends to cause less weight gain compared to some other medications of the same nature.
Most weight gain happens slowly, often taking several months of steady use. Not everyone will experience a noticeable weight change. As symptoms improve, some people may start eating more or return to old eating habits. It is recommended to get one’s doctor to look over one’s treatment plan and make changes in diet or activity to compensate.
When Is The Best Time to Take Lexapro?
Ultimately, the timing depends on an individual’s response to the medication, but most individuals take Lexapro pills once daily. This is typically taken in the morning, as Lexapro pills often cause insomnia or increased alertness.
However, if the individual instead experiences side effects such as drowsiness or fatigue, then nighttime dosing is recommended by the doctor. Consistency, taking Lexapro at the same time every day, is important for steady medication levels. If sleep issues or other side effects continue, consult a healthcare provider about adjusting the timing or dosage.
Does Lexapro cause night sweats?
Night sweats are a known side effect of Lexapro. They often occur in roughly 3% to 8% of users [9]. These side effects usually become less noticeable as the body adjusts to the medication. If someone is suffering, switching to the morning dose is recommended. Some individuals notice this helps reduce sweating.
Who Should Not Take Lexapro?
Lexapro is not suited for everyone. For some individuals might need more caution or monitoring than others. Here are the conditions that need the most caution.
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Allergy: Individuals with any kind of allergy, should not take Lexapro, citalopram, or any SSRI that can release serotonin [10].
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Drug interactions: Lexapro medications can create major negative interactions with MAOIs. The most recommended way to wait is 2 weeks before using.
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Medical conditions: Pre-existing conditions interacting with lexapro can cause seizure disorder, bipolar disorder, glaucoma, and certain heart rhythm issues in some individuals.
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Pregnancy: A Sudden increase in serotonin can negatively affect some uteruses. Some doctors prescribe Lexapro sometimes, but only when necessary.
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Organ disease: Pre-existing organ diseases of any kind might worsen with Lexapro, These could lead to severe liver or kidney problems.
Before incorporating lexapro it is crucial to give your doctor a complete health history and a list of current medications to avoid any issues with lexapro.
FAQ
What does Lexapro feel like when it starts working?
Many individuals begin to notice better sleep to start. This grants the body more energy, and finally, mood lifts a bit after a few weeks. It’s usually subtle at first. Side effects sometimes show up early but often fade.
How Long Does It Take for Lexapro to Kick in? Can Lexapro work immediately?
No. Lexapro takes time.. Most people wait at least a week or two for any shift. These results will appear gradually in a month or so for most. There is a good chance one might not feel any benefit for the first 6 months. On the contrary, only encounter side effects that can range from mild to serious.
Is Lexapro energizing or sedating?
Based on results, some people consider Lexapro sedative while others find it energizing; it can go either way. Some feel more awake, while others get tired. If one feels sleepless after consumption at night, doctors often switch the treatment plan to include a morning dose, and vice versa.
Is it better to take Lexapro at night or in the morning?
The most recommended way is in the morning if it messes with your sleep cycle and keeps you awake, and at night if it makes you tired.
Get Treatment for Lexapro Misuse at Alliance Recovery
If you are struggling with Lexapro misuse or any other substance abuse, professional help is available. At Alliance Recovery, our experienced team, many of whom have personal recovery experience, is dedicated to supporting your journey to wellness.
When you choose Alliance Recovery, you’ll receive:
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Individual and group therapy tailored to your needs.
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A supportive, sober community.
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Comprehensive aftercare planning and career assistance.
Call our treatment team at (844) 287-8506 to get started.
Source
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557734/
[2] https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Escitalopram
[3] https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Escitalopram
[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4164382/
[5] https://www.drugs.com/sfx/escitalopram-side-effects.html
[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16421462/
[7] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15786487/
[8] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16420082/
[9] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12121960/
[10] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4883206/
[11] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30521236/
