September 25th, 2024
Are you struggling with anxiety and/or depression and thinking about starting medication management? You are not alone in this. Many people find themselves considering anxiety medication and depression medication as a form of treatment.
People often find themselves wondering what the best choice of medication is for them when it comes to depression and anxiety treatment. The first line of treatment for anxiety and depression are antidepressants, or more specifically, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
This medication class includes the following:
Keep reading to learn more about the ins and outs of Lexapro (Escitalopram) as anxiety and depression treatment.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed anxiety medications and depressive disorders medications. SSRIs inhibit the reuptake, or reabsorption, of serotonin by the neurons in our nervous system.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which carries messages within our nervous system between nerve cells. Serotonin plays a large role in our mood, sleep, and even our digestive system. SSRIs allow for there to be more serotonin readily available in our system to help alleviate depression symptoms and anxiety symptoms.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) is primarily used to treat anxiety and depressive disorders. This medication is FDA approved for the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in people over age 7. While Lexapro is used most in cases of anxiety and depression, it can also be used off-label for the following diagnoses:
Like most medications, Lexapro (Escitalopram) does have potential side effects. While Lexapro side effects are possible, not everyone taking Lexapro experiences the side effects. It is important to note that some Lexapro side effects may be limited to the first one to two weeks of medication initiation.
If you are experiencing side effects with medication use, it is important to talk with your psychiatric provider about this. There are many ways to remedy medication side effects whether that involves changing medication, adjusting medication, or adjunct treatment with another medication.
Some more common side effects of Lexapro (Escitalopram) to be aware of include the following (per UpToDate, >10%):
Some less common side effects of Lexapro (Escitalopram) to be aware of include the following (per UpToDate, 1% - 10%):
Lexapro (Escitalopram), like all SSRIs, can take four to six weeks to reach full efficacy. With medications like SSRIs, it takes our bodies time to adjust to them and for people to see noticeable change.
With that being said, some people will report noticing changes prior to that four-week mark. When Lexapro (Escitalopram) does begin to work, people often describe alleviation of their depression and anxiety symptoms.
The ideal timing to take Lexapro (Escitalopram) is a decision that is different from person to person. Lexapro can be taken at any time of the day. It is typically recommended to take your medication at a time when it fits best into your schedule. In addition to this, we often recommend combining the medication with a habit/task you already do daily – like brushing your teeth.
Some people may report that a medication like Lexapro (Escitalopram) causes them to feel fatigued, while others may report that it makes it hard for them to sleep. If you start Lexapro (Escitalopram) and find that you are feeling fatigued, it would be ideal to start taking the medication at night. The opposite can be said for if you find it is making it hard for you to fall asleep at night.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) is FDA approved for the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and must be prescribed by a medical professional like the following:
A prescription is needed to start a medication like Lexapro (Escitalopram). If you are interested in talking more about this, we recommend reaching out to a medical professional such as a psychiatrist near you to see if Lexapro (Escitalopram) may be the right fit for you.
The use of Lexapro (Escitalopram) throughout life can be immensely beneficial to some. With that being said, Lexapro (Escitalopram) is not always a lifelong medication.
When discontinuing Lexapro (Escitalopram), some may notice some withdrawal symptoms, while others may not. Lexapro withdrawal symptoms can be seen due to the reduced availability of serotonin in the nervous system.
Here are a couple things to look out for when discontinuing Lexapro (Escitalopram):
If you are wanting to discontinue your medications, it is important to talk with your prescriber about this as you may need to titrate down on your medication slowly to avoid symptoms seen with abrupt discontinuation of medication. If you miss doses of your medication, it is important to let your prescriber know as soon as possible.
The combination of Lexapro and alcohol is often discouraged by medical professionals. Lexapro and alcohol both play a role in our nervous system and when combined can cause the following:
If one chooses to continue consuming alcohol while on an SSRI like Lexapro, it is recommended to practice moderation. According to the National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, women should have no more than one drink a day and no more than seven drinks a week.
For men, it is recommended for no more than two drinks a day and no more than 14 drinks a week. People are always encouraged to have open and honest conversations with their medical team about their alcohol use.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) and Prozac (Fluoxetine) are both SSRIs. The mechanism of action is the same for both medications, which means they work in the same way and therefore, can present with similar side effects as well.
The main notable difference between Lexapro vs Prozac is that Prozac (Fluoxetine) is FDA approved for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and bulimia nervosa.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) and Zoloft (Sertraline) are both SSRIs. The mechanism of action is the same for both medications, which means they work in the same way and therefore, can present with similar side effects as well. Both medications have the same FDA approved disorders in which they treat.
If you find you are struggling with anxiety or clinical depression, there are many viable options for you to find relief from those symptoms. One may choose to work with a therapist near you who specializes in anxiety and/or depression, or you may choose to pursue depression/anxiety medication management.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) is a great option for medication management and one to talk through with your medical provider when you are ready. Book an appointment with the best psychiatrist in Chicago at Clarity Clinic to begin medication management.
If you decide you'd rather start with therapy, not to worry! We also offer the best depression therapists and anxiety therapists in Chicago for you.
Our mental health clinics are located throughout Illinois to help provide convenient mental health care no matter where you are.
Visit our Chicago clinics in the Loop, River North, Lakeview Broadway, and Lakeview Belmont if you live in the city or head to our Evanston and Arlington Heights clinics if you live near areas such as Oakbrook, Northbrook, Schaumburg, Elk Grove, Lake Forest, Wilmette, or Naperville, IL. For the best psychiatry, TMS, and Therapy near you, head to Clarity Clinic!
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