I was on 30 mgs of lexapro for awhile then I decided to go down to 25 mgs and I think it was a mistake. Has anyone ever had any major problems going down just 5 mgs. What suggestions does anyone have. Thank it's been hard. But maybe it will settle down
Lexapro - Was on 30 mgs of Lexapro and went down to 25?
Question posted by Molly angel on 13 June 2022
Last updated on 12 August 2022 by Slitherz
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Answers
Slitherz
12 Aug 2022
30mg is larger than the maximum dose, but I am sure your doc has a vision. I went down from 20mg to 10mg(which suited me better). Tapered 5mg for 3 days and then another 5mg for 3 days to reach 10mg dose. No issues at all. Its all about the dose that you feel best using. Hope this helps :)
WildcatVet
13 June 2022
Hi, Molly!
How long have you been on the 25mg and how long were you taking the 30mg? These symptoms may be similar to discontinuation syndrome even though it's only a 5mg difference. They should resolve over days to several weeks depending on a number of factors.
Why did you decide to adjust your dose? If you were having problems your doctor would be the one to have approved reducing it and should now give you advice on what to do next. Perhaps up your dose again until things have settled down and then use a proper tapering dose schedule if needed?
Anyway, it's time for a professional opinion from your doctor.
Best regards and I hope you're feeling better quickly.
TKMarsh711
13 June 2022
I thought 20 mg. was the maximum dose of Lexapro you could take. I've asked my Dr. to up mine and he won't do it.
WildcatVet
13 June 2022
Doses as high as 50mg have been prescribed off-label for severe MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) in patients who didn't respond to lower doses.
"Lexapro is approved for daily doses of not more than 20 mg. In practice, however, doctors have prescribed up to 50 mg for patients showing no response to lower dosages. That said, little evidence exists on whether successively higher doses represent a good balance between efficacy and safety."
"Larger, more controlled studies will be useful in ascertaining whether the benefits of high-dose Lexapro outweigh the risks. The Scotland study indicated only marginal effectiveness, although participants generally tolerated the high doses of medication. "
Evidence lacking...
Related topics
lexapro, depression, anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder
Further information
- Lexapro uses and safety info
- Lexapro prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Lexapro (detailed)
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