How Long Does It Take for Lexapro to Take Effect?

Lexapro is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressant and is FDA-approved to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It has many off-label uses as well.

History

• Lexapro is one of the newer SSRIs that was first approved by the FDA in 2002 and is a derivative of Celexa.

Time Frame

• As with the rest of the SSRI drug class, you can expect to see improvement within days or weeks but most doctors suggest waiting six weeks to let it reach its maximum effect.

Considerations

• One thing you need to keep in mind is that everyone is different and has different responses. Some people may see a benefit right away as others may have to wait and that is why doctors ask that you stick it out for the full six weeks.

Warning

• Never stop taking Lexapro without consulting with your doctor first. Stopping without tapering can cause withdrawal symptoms and even if you feel the medication isn't helping you, you may just need a dosage adjustment.

Fun Fact

• A study done at the Medical University of Vienna, Austria concluded that Lexapro pretty much works within a week. The findings can be found at the link in the Resources section below.