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The Side Effects & Withdrawal Symptoms of Lexapro

Lexapro is an antidepressant that is approved for the treatment for major depression and anxiety disorders. The medication has common side effects that normally go away with continual treatment. It also has less common side effects that may not go away and become may too debilitating for the patient to continue.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • The common side effects of Lexapro that generally leave after a few weeks of treatment include nausea, headaches, impotence, weight gain or loss, vivid dreaming and fatigue. Dizziness, dry mouth and insomnia have also been reported.

    Insomnia

    • Insomnia, ,a common side effect of Lexapro, can be very bothersome. Improving one's sleep habits will help quell this side effect. A patient should not drink caffeine or alcohol up to 6 hours before bedtime, nor should a patient exercise 2 hours before bedtime. Keeping the bedroom cool and dark creates a relaxing atmosphere. Taking a warm bath or reading can put one in the mood for sleep.

    Headaches

    • A small percentage of patients complain of headaches, including migraines, when taking Lexapro. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but if the pain is too severe, the patient should discuss the symptoms with a doctor. Headaches may go away with continual treatment, but if they don't, it might be necessary to discontinue.

    Weight Gain

    • Weight gain can be a side effect of Lexapro and most antidepressants. Eating healthy and adhering to portion control can help alleviate the weight gain. Exercising at least 30 minutes per day can help to curb appetite and also reduce tension.

    Dry Mouth

    • A common but less serious side effect is dry mouth. Chewing gum, sipping water and avoiding salty foods can help relieve dry mouth. Sugarless hard candy stimulates saliva flow. Also, one should avoid alcohol and tobacco, as they can dry out the mouth.

    Suicidal Thoughts

    • Warnings have been issued by the FDA concerning antidepressant use in children and teenagers due to an increase in reports of suicidal thoughts and tendencies. If a younger person has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder or has attempted suicide in the past, careful supervision should be warranted while on Lexapro .

    Withdrawal Side Effects

    • Withdrawal from Lexapro can have similar side effects to the beginning of treatment with the drug. One should never suddenly stop taking Lexapro. A physician will slowly wean a patient off the medicine to prevent severe side effects. Common withdrawal side effects are irritability, dizziness, confusion and anxiety.

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