If you're asking about Lexapro, you probably want simple, useful facts — not medical jargon. Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram, a common SSRI antidepressant. Doctors prescribe it for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It helps balance serotonin in the brain, which can lift mood and reduce worry over weeks.
How fast does it work? Some people notice small changes in 1–2 weeks, but most feel meaningful improvement after 4–6 weeks. That’s normal. Don’t judge the medication after a few days.
Common starting dose is 10 mg once daily. If needed, a doctor may raise it to 20 mg. Older adults or people with liver problems often start lower. Take it the same time each day—morning or evening—whatever fits your routine. Swallow with water; food doesn’t matter. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s close to the next one. Don’t double up.
Keep a pill box or phone reminder. Small habits help you stick with treatment long enough to see results.
Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness or trouble sleeping, sweating, and reduced sexual drive. Most side effects ease after a few weeks. Serious but rare problems: increased suicidal thoughts in people under 25, severe allergic reaction, or serotonin syndrome when mixed with certain drugs — that’s a medical emergency (high fever, confusion, fast heartbeat).
Avoid MAO inhibitors while on Lexapro and for at least 14 days after stopping them. Tell your doctor about blood thinners (like warfarin), NSAIDs, or herbal supplements such as St. John's wort — these can raise bleeding risk or cause interactions.
If you stop Lexapro suddenly, you might get withdrawal symptoms—dizziness, flu-like feelings, irritability, or electric-shock sensations. Always taper off under medical supervision.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding need careful talk with your provider. Sometimes benefits outweigh risks, but that decision should be personalized.
Want practical ways to handle side effects? Try taking it with food for nausea, use water and sugar-free gum for dry mouth, and schedule sexual side effect discussions with your doctor — dose changes or switching meds can help.
Thinking about buying Lexapro online? Only use licensed pharmacies that require a prescription and show clear contact info. Beware of sites that sell without prescriptions or offer dramatically low prices—those pills may be fake or unsafe. Check for accreditation, secure payment, and a pharmacist you can call. Keep packaging and batch numbers, and never mix medications from different sources without checking with your clinician.
Finally, keep your doctor in the loop. If symptoms don't improve after 6–8 weeks, or if side effects bother you, talk about dose adjustments or alternative treatments. You deserve clear answers and safe care while using Lexapro.
