Exploring Lexapro's Timeline: When can I expect Lexapro to start working?
Lexapro, the brand name for escitalopram, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed by primary care doctors and psychiatric providers to treat depression and anxiety disorders. This medication works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, helping to regulate mood.
While Lexapro does not have any immediate effects in terms of becoming effective, some users may report feeling initial changes such as emotional numbness or subtle symptom shifts within the first week of treatment. However, the therapeutic benefits on depression and anxiety symptoms usually require several weeks (typically 4 to 6 weeks) of consistent medication use before noticeable improvement occurs.
Common side effects experienced during the first week of taking Lexapro include headaches, upset stomach, nausea, drowsiness, excessive sweating, and dry mouth. More serious side effects, such as sexual dysfunction, dizziness, anxiety or agitation, changes in menstrual periods, emotional numbness or lack of emotion, and insomnia, may also occur, but they often improve with continued use.
It's important to note that the full therapeutic mechanisms of Lexapro are complex and not completely understood. Adjusting dosage is one of the main ways to ensure the highest level of effectiveness for Lexapro. The medication can be taken at any time of day, but it should be taken every day and at the same time. Since a common side effect for Lexapro can be drowsiness, taking it at night may be best for some people, at least when starting out.
The clearest way to know whether Lexapro medication is working is to assess the state of your mental health. Asking those around you whether they've seen an improvement in your symptoms or behaviour can provide additional ways to know Lexapro is working. If you've been taking Lexapro for over three months and still aren't seeing a noticeable decrease in symptoms, it's important to talk to your medical provider about it.
It's also worth noting that stopping Lexapro abruptly is not recommended due to potential withdrawal symptoms such as headaches and flu-like feelings, which can last from several weeks to months.
In conclusion, patients generally begin to experience side effects soon after starting Lexapro, with therapeutic effects on mood and anxiety developing over a few weeks. Side effects often diminish as treatment continues. If you are considering taking Lexapro, it's essential to have an open and honest discussion with your healthcare provider about the potential benefits and risks.
Engaging in regular health-and-wellness practices, such as exercise and a balanced diet, can complement the therapeutic effects of Lexapro on mental health.
Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers regarding any observed changes in mental health and side effect management is crucial for optimizing the effectiveness of Lexapro, especially during the initial weeks of treatment.
