Lexapro Side Effects in Males

Lexapro, the trade name of escitalopram, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used to treat generalized anxiety disorder and depression. As with any medication, some side effects may occur and need to be monitored and perhaps reported. Although some side effects are general to both genders, some are more specific to males; not all users of Lexapro will experience any of these effects.

General Side Effects

• Constipation, diarrhea, and nausea are the most common reported side effects from Lexapro use in both genders. Further, some individuals report loss of appetite, dizziness and drowsiness, and occasionally fatigue and increased sweating.

Sexual and Emotional Side Effects

• Reported side effects also include a decrease in sexual ability or interest. Specifically, some men report a lower sexual desire, a lower arousal experience or erectile dysfunction, although these are not permanent conditions. Some men also have reported serious mood changes. Report any of these effects to your doctor.

Male-Specific Effects

• Some males report a prolonged and painful erection. If your erection lasts more than four hours, then you should seek medical attention immediately. A small percentage of men report ejaculation disorder, meaning ejaculation delay.

Dosage

• Studies show that for both men and women, increased dosage increases the incidence of adverse events; a 20 mg/day dosage may produce as much as twice as many reports of side effects as someone taking 10 mg/day, and as many as five times as many reports from those taking placebos.

Medical Treatment

• Careful consultation with your health provider is advised for this and all medications. If you notice any ill-effects, including impotence or severe mood changes, speak to your doctor. Especially for prolonged erection or any change in stool color, seek attention immediately.