I’m going into week 6 on Tuesday of taking 20mg Lexapro which I just started last Monday on the highest dose. I have anxiety and panic disorder. How long does it take to fully kick in so the anxiety goes away?
How long does Lexapro take to fully kick in?
Question posted by allthingsme on 7 Feb 2021
Last updated on 25 March 2021
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
Answers
TyreseTl
8 Feb 2021
It roughly takes 6-8 weeks for full effects. But for panic disorders, it may take 12 weeks to start seeing improvements. You can give the medication few more weeks. Address your concerns to the doctor if your symptoms does not improve.
Tyrese
WildcatVet
8 Feb 2021
Good comment, Tyrese! It's also true that it may take several more weeks to see improvements after a dosage increase.
@allthingsme,
Try to distract yourself from worrying about how and when the medication will work for you and worrying about your symptoms. You're feeding into your anxiety and a positive attitude is very helpful in noticing improvements you may not be aware of.
Try reading, walking, meditation, put on some favorite music, doing a craft or hobby... anything that will keep your mind occupied and that you enjoy. You may be pleasantly surprised...
TyreseTl
8 Feb 2021
I concur @WC
Trallyn
25 March 2021
One thing I can say WC is full of knowledge! You do be surprised when you start to feel better, when the side effects go 1 by 1 etc. It's different with every person. The best advice is do talk to your doctor keep them informed. Doing things to get your mind off things helps
WildcatVet
25 March 2021
@Trallyn.
Thank you! :)
Your comment was excellent. It's hard getting through the side effects initially but it's well worth it when you start feeling better.
Trallyn
25 March 2021
No, thank you :-)!! You can speak on things because you've been there. Your comments gave me hope when I started to give up on escitalopram. The side effects do get you starting out, which I'm at day 25, and I do talk with my doctor today explaining my experience. And I and gonna mention U WC the support talk which helped me :-)! Thank u for caring about us all, God bless you and keep u safe!
Trallyn
25 March 2021
Oops typo lol... and I am gonna mention you WC...
Knott1
7 Feb 2021
Usually, 4 to 6 weeks. X
allthingsme
7 Feb 2021
I’m already at 6 weeks
allthingsme
7 Feb 2021
I’m already at 6 weeks
Knott1
7 Feb 2021
I always have the same problem. X
Knott1
7 Feb 2021
Each increase, in dose takes 4 to 5 weeks my doctor said. X
allthingsme
7 Feb 2021
That’s good to know thank you!
Related topics
lexapro, anxiety, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, dosage, disorder
Further information
- Lexapro uses and safety info
- Lexapro prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Lexapro (detailed)
Similar questions
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.