How long does it take for Lexapro to work?
Even though it takes Lexapro only a few hours to increase serotonin levels within the brain, it may take several weeks to start working. Signs that Lexapro has started working include an improvement in your sleep, energy, or appetite. In some, this may happen in as little as 1 to 2 weeks. Relief from symptoms, such as a depressed mood or a lack of interest in activities you used to enjoy, may take up to 6 to 8 weeks to fully improve.
How long can you take Lexapro?
If this is your first episode of depression, your doctor may prescribe Lexapro for a set period, for example, 6 months to a year. Some people with persistent depression may need to take it for many years. There are no known problems when Lexapro is taken long-term.
References
- Escitalopram (Lexapro) National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Escitalopram-(Lexapro)
- Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate). Updated 09/2021. Allergan, Inc. https://www.drugs.com/pro/lexapro.html
Read next
Why does Lexapro cause weight gain?
Lexapro may cause weight gain because it blocks the serotonin transporter, which increases levels of serotonin in the brain, but also increases appetite and decreases metabolism. Research has shown approximately 40% of people taking antidepressants such as Lexapro will gain 7% or more of their starting body weight. The weight gain experienced with Lexapro is a lot less than that reported with other antidepressants such as paroxetine, mirtazapine, or doxepin but more than fluoxetine. Continue reading
When is the best time to take Lexapro?
Lexapro is usually taken once a day and you can take it either in the morning or at night. Continue reading
Does Lexapro cause night sweats?
Lexapro can cause night sweats and increased sweating overall (night and day) was one of the most common side effects reported with Lexapro, reported by 3% to 8% (depending on the dose) of people. Although night sweats can be worrisome, they usually diminish with time as your body and brain adjust to the medication. Continue reading
See also:
Aimovig
Learn about Aimovig (erenumab-aooe) a once-monthly, injectable medication that can be ...
Botox
Botox is used for cosmetic purposes and to treat overactive bladder symptoms, urinary incontinence ...
Vraylar
Vraylar is a once a day antipsychotic medication used to treat mental health or mood disorders ...
Nurtec ODT
Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) is used to treat acute migraines and prevent episodic migraines, by ...
Emgality
Emgality (galcanezumab-gnlm) is a CGRP antagonist for the preventive treatment of migraine and for ...
Inderal
Inderal (propranolol) is used to treat angina, high blood pressure and heart rhythm disorders ...
Ajovy
Ajovy (fremanezumab-vfrm) is a preventive migraine treatment. Includes Ajovy side effects ...
Vyepti
Vyepti (eptinezumab-jjmr) is used for the preventive treatment of migraine. Includes Vyepti ...
Botox Cosmetic
Botox Cosmetic is a prescription treatment for fine lines and wrinkles. It temporarily improves the ...
Fremanezumab
Fremanezumab is used for chronic migraine, headache, migraine, migraine prevention
Related medical questions
- SSRIs vs SNRIs - What's the difference between them?
- What is the difference between Celexa and Lexapro?
- Lexapro vs Zoloft: How do they compare?
- Treatments for Menopause
- On Nexito plus for 3 months, stopped 2 days ago, can't sleep. Why?
- What are some common side effects of antidepressants?
- How to sleep while taking Cymbalta?
- Panic attack vs Anxiety attack - What's difference between them?
- Valium vs Xanax: Which is better?
- How long do venlafaxine withdrawal symptoms last?
- How long does Xanax last for / stay in your system?
- Can you take hydroxyzine for anxiety and sleep?
- Klonopin vs Xanax - How are they different?
- Lorazepam vs Xanax: What is the difference?
- 8 Cymbalta Side Effects: Should I be Concerned?
- CBD Oil: What are 9 Proven or Possible Health Benefits?
- What are the rules for controlled substance prescription refills?
- Does Xanax help you sleep?
- How does Xanax make you feel?
- Ativan vs Xanax - What is the difference?
- How quickly does propranolol work?
- What is bromazepam used for?
- Does Adderall help with anxiety and depression?
- How long does it take for Cymbalta to work?
- How long does it take for Ativan to work?
- Should gabapentin be taken with food?
- Does Benadryl help with or cause anxiety?
- Is it better to take lamotrigine at night?
- Xanax vs Ambien: How do they compare?
- What do Cymbalta brain zaps feel like?
Drug information
Related support groups
- Lexapro (638 questions, 2,200 members)
- Escitalopram (199 questions, 422 members)
- Anxiety (3,028 questions, 10,937 members)
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (1,500 questions, 4,880 members)
- Depression (2,245 questions, 8,786 members)
- Major Depressive Disorder (536 questions, 1,389 members)