Escitalopram User Reviews & Ratings (Page 5)

• Iri...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• March 12, 2019

For Depression "After enduring severe depression, anxiety, obsessive thoughts, brain fog, problems with focusing, and a sleep disorder since childhood, I went on 10 mg of Lexapro at age 40. It took 6 weeks for Lexapro to work, but my entire life changed. All of a sudden, my thoughts became clear, more positive, and I could focus. My severe anxiety was reduced, my sleep disorder dramatically improved, and I stopped thinking about suicide. I was slightly nauseous for a few weeks. The worst side effect I had for a few years was fatigue. I have been taking Lexapro for 15 years in doses of 10-20 mg. I can reduce my dose during the summer months to 15 mg. I have no intention of going off the drug."

• MAa...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 6, 2019

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "Ok, so I don’t ever do reviews. Like ever. But this medication has changed my life. I’ve been on it for about 5 months now, and I’m honestly amazed. I’ve suffered from extremely bad depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I’m also a recovering alcoholic/addict with 8 months sober. I went from being literally at rock bottom to all of a sudden living life again. For the first time in years, my body didn’t ache all day long, my anxiety went away, and I started to sing in the car and get excited about nice sunny days! It’s crazy. I’m just super thankful. I take 10mg along with Wellbutrin and Adderall. But Lexapro has been the game changer. Let your body go through a little nightmare for the first couple of weeks. I promise you will all of a sudden hit a hump that you get over, and it’s so nice. Don’t get me wrong, I still have my moments and struggles in life, but I can deal with them now instead of breaking down. And I like people again. Give it a try."

• Jeb...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 20, 2021

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I am 60 years old and have suffered from anxiety since I was 23 years old. Many times, the panic attacks were quite severe. I had trouble holding down a job, and there were times I couldn't drive and was terrified of being alone. I've tried so many anti-anxiety drugs, but I expected them to work right away. I've done years of counseling. In October of 2020, my doctor put me on 5mg of Lexapro. I knew what side effects to expect, and they lasted almost 3 weeks before I started to notice that it was working. In January, I started 10mg. I have not had an anxiety attack since I've been taking Lexapro. It gave me my life back. I feel normal for the first time in many years."

• Law...
• October 21, 2019

For Depression "After 27 years as a police officer, I retired. I have PTSD. The one shooting I was involved in, the dead bodies, and all the other LE activities that come with the job left me paranoid. I kept dreaming about more shootings, fighting in my sleep, extreme anger issues, and not trusting anyone wearing all black. After five weeks on Lexapro, everything changed for the best. My family and I get along much better. I’m no longer jumping and fighting in my sleep, and I’m learning that just because people are wearing all black, they are not committing a crime. The downside is I’m not as interested in things as I used to be. My sex drive has gone down, and I do have a “I don’t care attitude.” My wife wants me to stop taking Lexapro because she said I’m too quiet. I want to stay on it because it feels good not to be angry all the time."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• September 27, 2024

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "It works! I've used this medicine on and off for 3 years, and it works. You just have to be consistent and patient. If you are alone, come to this site and read positive reviews of other people's experiences. If you have loved ones, rely on them. Just remember this is a MOMENT, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I've used different strengths of this medicine, 5mg to 20mg, and it does come with some side effects, like increased anxiety, dry mouth, fogginess, but it will pass. I'm starting on day 8 of my medicine today, and the side effects are there but trying to remain positive and busy. It affects everyone here differently, but remember to stay positive. Based on my experience, it takes about 2-4 weeks to get the full effects of the medicine. Hang in there and be strong. Write a review if you need to, no need to internalize."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• August 25, 2020

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I started 5 mg of Lexapro for social anxiety a month ago, with no side effects. My doctor increased to 10 mg. And after 2 years, I'm still using it, and my social anxiety has subsided. Amazing, I was a mess!"

• Ora...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 7, 2021

For Anxiety "(Male/24) Initially Lexapro made my anxiety worse, quite significantly. I experienced both anxiety & panic attacks at a greater frequency compared to prior to starting. Despite this, I have continued to take the medication with the hope that this side effect would lessen, despite most of my thoughts begging me to stop this medication. After about 12 days, I felt my body adjusting to the dosage. The last two days I have felt really great, no anxiety or racing heart rate (another initial side effect), no panic attacks and improved mood and enjoyment in things. I wanted to share just in case others are experiencing initial worsening anxiety and are unsure if this improves over time. Although my one experience is anecdotal, I am glad I stuck with it. I experienced headaches, nausea, jitteriness and trouble sleeping the first week as well, those too have gone away. My appetite has improved, and I have had no complications with sexual dysfunction. I hope this helps"

• RHS...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 25, 2014

For Anxiety "Male, 50, about 1 year ago experienced sudden onset of debilitating generalized anxiety disorder. Suffered 3 months trying benzodiazepines, Buspar, Wellbutrin, and Lexapro 10 mg. Settled on Lexapro 20 mg. 100% symptom-free in about 1 month. After 1 year, tapered off about a month ago. ZERO negative side effects from tapering and 100% recovery. I'm not one to suggest a miracle, but this is about as close as it gets."

• twe...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 7, 2013

For Obsessive Compulsive Disorder "I noticed that many of the reviews on here were extremely negative, but I can't say enough good things about this medication. It absolutely changed my life for the better! Most people won't go to the trouble of leaving a review unless they had a really bad experience. Don't let the bad reviews scare you... there are a lot of success stories too! I had VERY few and mild side effects (nausea the first night and cold sweats at night in the beginning). This medication reminded me what it felt like to be happy again and I finally got my life back! I used to be the first person to condemn using medicines for things like this and I went to it as a last resort because I was desperate, but I could not possibly be happier that I did it. Good luck! There is hope!"

• Lau...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 18, 2024

For Depression "Here to help someone else the way you all helped me when I came here for reviews. I will say, one word that stood out to me when I was hesitant and unsure about this medication was-LIFE CHANGING. That is exactly what it has been for me. Thankfully, I did not have any stomach issues or major side effects during my first two weeks of taking Lexapro. It is now nearly two months since I first began taking this medication. Wow! I feel incredible. I'm so relieved. I used to be so irritable and moody. I truly feel that this medication has saved my marriage, and my children are happier now that mommy isn't constantly sad, angry, or frustrated. I'm sleeping so much better, I'm able to focus more at work, and my mood is just all around so much happier! If you are hesitant or nervous to take the step...do it. You will be so much happier in the long run. Now I just wish I wouldn't have waited so long. Best of luck to you!"

• Ash...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 25, 2023

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "Like most of you, I was in the exact same position. Scared to death to start taking medications. I would spend HOURS scrolling and scrolling through Reddit and other forums trying to absorb as much information as possible. Now that the Lexapro has completely kicked in, I will never go off of it! This medication quite literally saved my life. For MONTHS, I was in such a downward spiral, and I was so sure I could never get out of it. My anxiety and depression began affecting everyone around me. I knew that I needed to take the leap, and I'm so glad that I did! I took 5 mg for about 6 weeks and bumped up to 10 mg, which has helped immensely. The side effects (mostly nausea and no appetite) only lasted about 1 week, and I've had none since then. If you are torn, just do it! This medication exists for a reason. You'll never know unless you try!"

• Sta...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 5, 2018

For Anxiety "I am back to write an update on my almost 5-month journey on Lexapro. I am feeling great and have a lot of positive things to say. I am starting back nursing school (to specialize in psychiatry, of all things!) this January after quitting due to my mental breakdown. I am back to working full-time. I'm calm and feel mentally able to achieve what I want in my life. The OCD rituals are at a bare minimum now, and the horrible mood swings I had before starting Lexapro have almost completely disappeared. My anxiety and depression once had me homebound, and now I'm leaving my house 4-6 days a week, and I enjoy being out again. I'm 24 and have struggled with mental health problems since the age of 12 and thought I was doomed for life. Your life can turn around for good, so don't give up on yourself. Prayers for you all that you find happiness and live your lives to your fullest potentials. Be blessed."

• Mad...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 22, 2024

For Anxiety "This medication has changed my life. I am a working mom of four children, and I'm in an emotionally neglected marriage. I am expected to be happy all of the time while working full-time and taking care of the household perfectly. I am invisible to my husband, who copes with his PTSD from the military by playing video games and ignoring the kids and me. I am working hard and saving as much money as I can, but my anxiety has been crippling me and I have lost sight of who I am in the last few years. Often times I am so overwhelmed by the laundry and the housework that I feel consumed with anxiety. I started 20 mg and within one week I had a desire to go back to the gym and start eating a little bit better. After two weeks, I noticed that I was finding joy in little things again, like being in my garden and bible study. I set goals daily to finish all the laundry before bedtime and do art projects with the kids, which are little things that I used to do every day. I feel like I am myself again!"

• Lin...
• January 3, 2015

For Anxiety "Lexapro played a very important role in saving my life. After suffering serious anxiety and depression, while going through 6 years of therapy, and only feeling worse, I finally accepted that therapy on its own wasn't working. After a month of using Lexapro, I noticed a significant difference in my quality of life. I liked the change, the experience I had when I was first prescribed glasses when I was younger. I remember putting on glasses for the first time and thinking to myself, 'I had no idea this is what the world looks like!' Everything was so clear and beautiful. That's what everything was like after starting Lexapro- I had no idea that it was even possible to live a life free from constant, sickening anxiety. Life now is beautiful!"

• Awa...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 12, 2019

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I promised myself if I made it out alive, I'd come back and give my review. I've been on the meds for a little over 2 months, and the outcome has been very good for me! First couple of weeks are rough but stick it out, it'll be well worth it!"

• Nik...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• January 31, 2021

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "This is a lifesaver for me! I was prescribed this because I have minor generalized anxiety and OCD with intrusive thoughts. I regret I did not take this sooner. I was very scared to take it at first because of side effects. I didn't want to be 'zombie-like' but this helped my OCD thoughts immensely. I still get anxiety now and then, but it's much easier to brush off. I didn't have any bad side effects. The thing I recognized most is your brain feels quieter but not in a zombie way. I would get anxiety because I wasn't having anxiety anymore haha. This medication seemed to help me right away within 2 weeks, but I noticed a full effect after 2-3 months."

• Hma...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 19, 2014

For Anxiety "During a recent stretch of terrible anxiety which crept up very slowly, I suddenly became incapacitated. I was in fear of everything and I couldn't function - AT ALL. I went to my doctor and explained the symptoms, and he recommended Lexapro 10 mg. with Klonopin 0.5 mg. as needed. I took both medications, and the Klonopin erased all the start-up side effects of the Lexapro such as increased nervousness, insomnia, and poor appetite. As soon as the Lexapro kicked in (about three weeks), I was able to step off the Klonopin and have felt great ever since. Anxiety has been wiped out, and sleep has improved. I feel 100% better. Don't give up, this medication WORKS!"

• col...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 19, 2014

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "Before Lexapro, my anxiety would take over my life. I would worry too much about little things and had trouble remaining calm in social situations. I had trouble sleeping and would feel sick to my stomach from all the anxiety I would get. Lexapro helped all of these symptoms for me! I am only 21 years old but I feel like it changed my whole outlook on life, and I can handle it much easier now. Little things don't get to me, and I tend to live for the moment instead of worrying about tomorrow. I feel like myself again and that I am in control, and my thoughts no longer control me. I recommend this for anxiety, or anxiety that can lead to depression. It took about a month to completely work for me, so be patient!"

• Joj...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 21, 2020

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "My life was literally wrecked by depression and anxiety when it turned its ugly head when I was 17 years old. I've been through terrible times and through a living nightmare. Now I'm 32 years old on Lexapro and I feel good finally."

• Ola...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 13, 2020

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I've had anxiety problems since I was about 12 and was put on Lexapro when I was 18 years old. I didn’t feel much difference that time and stopped after about a month because my parents found out I was on it and shamed me into stopping. I’m now 19 and my anxiety has gotten much worse, I disassociate often and I’m depressed. I got put back on it and I’m on day 4. I’m having a really bad time on it. I’m extremely anxious right now, it’s made me dizzy and it’s given me stomach problems. I did notice an improvement in my sleeping right away which has been amazing. Reading the comments that say that you just have to wait it out are helping a lot, it’s making me motivated to continue and it’s reminding me that this feeling isn’t going to last. I hope in a few months things are better."

• Tha...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 19, 2021

For Depression "This medication pulled me out of a deep and very severe depression. Almost instantly after taking it, my mind felt much clearer. My anxiety went away, and I noticed my sense of humor had returned with a vengeance. My ability to enjoy simple and not-so-simple things in life skyrocketed. I was basically smiling all the time. I’ve been on it for about five months now and have no plans of discontinuing it ever. This medication was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my entire life. The side effects were difficulty reaching orgasm for about a month and a half, nausea, insomnia, and general discomfort for about a month. I couldn’t sleep no matter how hard I tried for about a week straight. Then I would get maybe an hour or two a night. After a month, my sleep cycle went back to normal. My sexual function began working properly, along with my libido. The anxiety relief, depression relief, and energy levels skyrocketed from that point forward."

• Liv...
• February 25, 2014

For Anxiety "I've been on Lexapro for two months now. The first 4 weeks I had very minor side effects. Dry mouth, dilated pupils, etc. VERY minor and only lasted 2 days each. Two months later I can tell you this medication is amazing. I suffered from very periodic anxiety which turned into panic attacks on some occasions. It was always in the back of my mind as to if or when it was going to happen. That's no way to live. I feel focused with clear thought now. I still laugh and feel every emotion... I just don't worry about things like I used to before Lexapro. I'm happier and have a more positive outlook on difficult situations in my life now. I find myself being much more social now too. Miracle medication for sure!"

• Zoa...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 11, 2020

For Depression "I was prescribed Lexapro (Escitalopram) after complaining of severe moodiness after my bi-weekly testosterone shot was administered. The very first and last pill I would ever take. I had a very extreme battle with Suicidal Tendencies - with just one pill! I drank so much water to help flush it out of my system and after a full 24 hours later, I feel I'm out of danger. Please! Please!! Recognize the symptoms and fight through it. Get off of it immediately should you have a similar reaction and notify your doctor. Hope I was able to help someone."

• fin...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 10, 2019

For Anxiety "Been on escitalopram for 8 weeks (51 yo woman). SUPER lethargic week 1 as I went from 5 to 10 mg. Urinary problems in week 2 only. No orgasm in week 3 and still now. Benefits crept up SLOWLY. First was PHYSICAL benefits in week 4: no more adrenaline rushes or heart palpitations and my body just felt really good (libido great despite lack of orgasm). This was huge but still no change in my thinking. Week 7, obsessive thinking and worry subsided noticeably. Start of week 8 it REALLY kicked in. I have clarity, a sense of calm, I smile a lot, I genuinely take time for others, my mind is not racing or jumbled with worry, I am willing to ask for what I want more confidently. Biggest thing: I am no longer on edge AT ALL. Still hoping for benefit to self-esteem & being more outgoing. Dr. will up me to 15 mg for this, but I will wait since I literally see improvement daily & I prefer the lowest dose. I LOVE the change in myself! Patience & paying attention to little improvements is key!"

• Bro...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 26, 2015

For Anxiety "This is the first time I have ever posted a review of anything online, but I feel an obligation to share my experience with others suffering from anxiety. I suffer from GAD, which includes panic attacks, muscle aches, and a horrible temper. I avoided this medication fearing weight gain (as I had already gained 10 lbs over the year) and sexual dysfunction. When I explained this to my doctor, he replied, 'Have you ever considered whether being anxious has caused you to eat more, drink more, and maybe have sex less often?' I have been on Lexapro for 6 months now, and my only regret is not starting this treatment sooner. I have lost 15 lbs as I don't eat and drink as much anymore, and my love life has improved. Anxiety sucks. You don't have to suffer!"