Escitalopram (Lexapro): Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, & More

Medical Review by Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM

Summary

Escitalopram (marketed as Lexapro®) is an FDA-approved SSRI, most typically used to treat mental health conditions like depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
The medication works by increasing serotonin in the brain, which can help maintain mental balance and a sense of wellbeing.
Common side effects of escitalopram can include nausea, sleepiness, and dizziness—but more severe side effects are also possible. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications, you should also discuss this with your healthcare provider before taking escitalopram.
Choosing to take an SSRI like escitalopram can be an effective treatment for depression or anxiety, but it’s critical to talk to your healthcare provider and make sure you understand the risks before you get started.

An FDA-approved medication option for depression & anxiety

Escitalopram (branded as Lexapro®) is an FDA-approved medication that can be used to treat several different mental health conditions. Escitalopram is typically prescribed to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Medications like Lexapro® can help with depression, but it’s critical to learn about how they work before seeking a prescription or taking them. This article explains key information about escitalopram—including how it works, what its benefits are, and its potential side effects. Use this information to make an informed decision with your healthcare provider about whether this option is right for you.

Understanding escitalopram: how it works

FDA-approved uses for escitalopram are treating major depressive disorder and, more recently, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Off-label uses include treating social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Escitalopram falls into a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by preventing a naturally occurring substance in the brain called serotonin from being reabsorbed too quickly after it’s been produced.

Serotonin helps maintain your mood, memory, and other important brain functions. When you have higher serotonin levels, you may have a better ability to manage anger, fear, stress, and addictive behaviors—all of which can make dealing with depression easier.

Benefits of escitalopram

Escitalopram has been shown to be effective as a treatment for major depressive disorder in adults, demonstrating even more potential than some other SSRIs. It has also been shown to be effective at treating social anxiety disorder.

Escitalopram is currently among the most used medications and is a key treatment for many mood disorders. Part of the reason escitalopram is so commonly used is due to its relatively high tolerability—but as with any medication, side effects are still possible.

Potential side effects of escitalopram

Like other medications, escitalopram may cause side effects. It’s important to understand these before seeking a prescription for escitalopram or taking it for the first time.

Common side effects

Some of the common possible side effects of escitalopram are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if these side effects persist or interfere with everyday activities.

Nausea
Sleepiness
Weakness
Dizziness
Feeling anxious
Trouble sleeping
Sexual problems
Sweating
Shaking
Not feeling hungry
Dry mouth
Constipation
Infection
Yawning

Severe side effects

Serious side effects from escitalopram are rare, but they can still occur. Call your healthcare provider immediately or get emergency medical treatment if you experience any of these symptoms.

Suicidal thoughts
Severe allergic reactions
Unusual bleeding
Seizures or convulsions
Manic episodes
Changes to your weight or appetite
Signs of low blood sodium such as weakness, feeling unsteady, or confusion
Vision problems
Signs of serotonin syndrome (see below)

Serotonin syndrome

Serotonin syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening adverse effect associated with SSRIs, including escitalopram. This condition results from too much serotonin in the central nervous system.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include dizziness, flushing, and an elevated temperature. They also include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mental status changes, such as agitation, delirium, and hallucinations.

Serotonin syndrome is rare, but early intervention is critical. Contact your healthcare provider if you feel unwell while taking escitalopram.

Who should not take escitalopram?

Escitalopram can be an effective treatment for many people, but it may not be suitable for you if any of the following risk factors apply:

You are using any medication classified as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have stopped taking them within the last 14 days. Mixing MAOIs and escitalopram can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
You are taking pimozide (an antipsychotic used to control symptoms caused by conditions like Tourette’s disorder.)
You are hypersensitive to escitalopram, citalopram, or any of the inactive ingredients in Lexapro.

Considerations for use in special populations

You should also talk with your healthcare provider before starting treatment if you fall under any of the categories below—if you do, they may recommend a different amount or an alternative medication for you.

Pregnancy considerations: You may need to be monitored or have your dosage adjusted if you decide to take this medication while pregnant.
Breastfeeding considerations: For breastfeeding mothers, a lower dose of escitalopram is advised—your provider may recommend a different amount.
Older patients: According to the manufacturer’s label, a 10-mg dose of escitalopram is recommended for older adult patients.

Dosage & administration guidelines

Escitalopram is taken by mouth in two forms: an oral solution or tablets. It is usually taken once a day, either with or without food.

The typical starting dose of this medication is 10 mg, which may be increased after one week. The maximum recommended dosage is 20 mg per day for major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder.

If you are taking escitalopram, your healthcare provider will want to see you often, especially at the beginning of your treatment. Make sure you keep all appointments with your healthcare provider.

Additional considerations

Here are some additional important considerations before taking escitalopram:

Talk to your doctor about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medications, as well as herbal supplements.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have a low level of sodium in your blood, if you drink or have ever drunk large amounts of alcohol, and if you have ever used street drugs or have overused prescription medications.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have recently had a heart attack and if you have or have ever had bleeding problems, seizures, glaucoma, or liver, kidney, or heart disease.

Using escitalopram for mental wellness with Lemonaid Health

If you’re considering taking medication for depression or anxiety, escitalopram may help. But before you start taking any new medication, it’s essential to talk to your healthcare provider about how it works, how to take it correctly, and any other potential risks or side effects to set yourself up for a successful treatment.

Lemonaid Health is here to help. Our US-based team of medical practitioners can consult with you online to create a personalized treatment plan for depression or anxiety, which may involve a prescription for escitalopram if clinically indicated. Learn more about treating depression with us so you can take meaningful strides towards a healthier future.