Lexapro (escitalopram) belongs to a class of prescription medications that have been significantly linked to causing withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use.

Although doctors label these symptoms as ‘antidepressant discontinuation syndrome’ – a condition that arises after the interrupting, lowering the dose, or discontinuing the use of antidepressant medication after a minimum of one month of continuous use – many feel that this term downplays the severity of the effects felt.

For patients getting off Lexapro, the side effects of stopping Lexapro can be challenging. Here’s what to anticipate regarding Lexapro withdrawal and what to expect during the Lexapro detox process.

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What Is Lexapro?

Lexapro is the generic name for the drug escitalopram. In the UK and a number of other countries, escitalopram is marketed under the brand name Cipralex.

Lexapro is a prescription medication sanctioned by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It is part of a category of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

What Is Lexapro Withdrawal Like?

Various SSRI drugs might influence the brain in slightly distinct manners. Individuals undergoing withdrawal symptoms may anticipate that these symptoms will vary from mild to severe.

On a spectrum of minimal to maximal likelihood of intense symptoms, withdrawals from Lexapro are positioned roughly in the center.

Lexapro withdrawal symptoms can start within a few days after coming off the medication. The timing and length of withdrawal symptoms, along with Lexapro side effects, can differ depending on factors like the dosage, the duration of Lexapro use, and your existing mental and physical health.

What Are The Symptoms Of Withdrawal From Lexapro?

Lexapro withdrawal symptoms can be severe and difficult to handle by yourself. In extreme situations, the side effects can reach perilous heights, including thoughts or actions of suicide.

Getting assistance from healthcare professionals guarantees access to crisis intervention, if necessary, greatly lowering the risk of harm during the withdrawal process caused by discontinuing the drug.

Mental/Emotional Symptoms

Emotional withdrawal symptoms from Lexapro may consist of:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Depersonalization
• Suicidal thoughts
• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression

Physical Symptoms

The physical symptoms linked to Lexapro withdrawal or SSRI discontinuation syndrome can also differ in intensity based on body chemistry, dosage, and duration of drug use.

Physical symptoms of withdrawal from Lexapro include:

• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Weight changes
• Flu-like symptoms
• Nausea or indigestion
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Dry mouth
• Altered perception of certain senses, such as smell or taste
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite
• Frequent urination

Lexapro Withdrawal Timeline

The initial withdrawal symptoms generally emerge one to three days following the final dose. However, they may start earlier (in a few hours) or later (after a week). Nevertheless, most of the time, symptoms disappear within a few weeks, although in some cases, they may persist longer.

For the majority of individuals, withdrawal symptoms will ultimately fade away completely (often within 2 weeks), but they might persist for as long as six to eight weeks (or even longer in severe instances). Although the severity may vary, Lexapro withdrawal symptoms generally reach their highest intensity by day 5.

Why Lexapro Abuse Causes Withdrawal

SSRIs (serotonin reuptake inhibitors) influence serotonin levels in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood.

Stopping Lexapro suddenly without tapering after extended use doesn’t allow the brain to adjust to the lack of the drug, leading to Lexapro withdrawal. This is because SSRIs require time to bring about changes in the brain; this is why individuals usually don’t observe a decrease in symptoms of depression and anxiety for several weeks after beginning treatment.

Hence, abruptly discontinuing them doesn’t allow the brain sufficient time to adapt to the unexpected shift, resulting in the uncomfortable physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms of Lexapro.

What Is Detox For Lexapro Like?

Although Lexapro isn’t categorized as addictive like opioids or benzodiazepines, it may still cause dependence. This implies that the body can adapt to the medication’s presence, and halting it suddenly may lead to withdrawal symptoms and side effects.

However, it’s crucial to understand that dependence does not mean being addicted. Addiction generally includes compulsive drug-seeking actions and improper use, which is not typical with Lexapro use.

Tapering Lexapro

Discontinuing an SSRI medication like Lexapro (escitalopram) requires a gradual and systematic reduction of the dosage instead of stopping suddenly. Sufficient assistance can alleviate withdrawal symptoms and lower the chances of relapse. Moreover, this method enables the mind and body to gradually adapt to reduced medication levels, reducing possible withdrawal effects of detoxing from Lexapro.

Consultation With A Healthcare Provider

Prior to altering your medication schedule, it is essential to discuss it with your healthcare professional. They can provide personalized guidance and assistance suited to your unique health requirements and situation. They can also assist you in creating a suitable strategy to gradually cut back your usage and lessen any withdrawal effects.

Your physician can also provide advice on handling the side effects of stopping Lexapro, helping you feel more comfortable and ensuring minimal interference with your daily activities. This is the sole method to guarantee optimal safety during the whole procedure.

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What Happens After Lexapro Detox?

For a successful detox from Lexapro, you need to look after the following aspects:

Observe Your Well-Being

When you start to lower your Lexapro dosage, consistent follow-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial. These meetings enable modifications to your tapering strategy as required and offer a chance to address any issues or symptoms you might be facing.

Engage In Self-Care Activities

While going through the tapering process, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care more than ever. Participating in actions that enhance physical and emotional health, like working out, meditating, and being with family and friends, can aid the process of Lexapro withdrawal.

Seek Support

It is common to feel various emotions while transitioning to a reduced dose of Lexapro. Being ready for these changes can assist you in managing them more efficiently. Think about techniques such as anxiety journaling prompts or seeking therapy to work through your emotions.

Moreover, contacting friends, family, or a support group can offer extra emotional support that goes beyond professional medical assistance.

Investigate Alternative Therapies

While reducing your Lexapro intake, it may be helpful to look into other options for managing your mental health. Talk about alternatives such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, or options similar to Lexapro with your healthcare professional.

FAQs

How Long Do Lexapro Withdrawals Last?

The length of time for Lexapro withdrawal can differ between individuals. Typically, symptoms can persist from one week to several months after stopping use, but it’s important to emphasize that each person’s experience with Lexapro withdrawal varies. Some individuals will need more time than others to completely recover after discontinuing Lexapro.

How Long Do The Symptoms Of Lexapro Detox Last?

Some individuals may have psychological and physical symptoms that persist for one to two weeks, whereas others might face prolonged and even aggravated symptoms for several months.

Does Lexapro Withdrawal Cause Brain Zaps?

Yes, Lexapro withdrawals may lead to “brain zaps,” which are short, electric shock-like feelings as the brain adapts to decreased serotonin levels following the cessation of the medication.

Does The Brain Go Back To Normal After Stopping Lexapro?

Once antidepressants are discontinued, the brain can slowly return to its pre-medication condition, although this process and its results can differ greatly among individuals. Some individuals might revert to their former mental condition, while others could undergo long-lasting changes or enhancements.

How To Wean Off 5 mg Of Lexapro?

Weaning off Lexapro involves creating a tapering plan. Tapering strategies include slowly decreasing the dosage until the body has completely eliminated the medication. An effective tapering plan will specify the Lexapro dosages you need to follow for several months. For example, your dosage might decrease by 10% every few weeks based on how your body reacts.

Help For Lexapro Withdrawal And Detox At Gratitude Lodge

At Gratitude Lodge in Southern California, we recognize the difficulties of prescription drug and anti-depressant dependence and are ready to support you on your path to recovery. Our pet-inclusive treatment centers in Newport Beach and Long Beach, CA, offer extensive treatment programs aimed at tackling substance use disorders and mental health issues.

Your safety and well-being are our top priority, which is why we offer a monitored drug detox program. This program provides a safe and nurturing setting in which you can effectively eliminate addictive substances from your body. When detoxification is finished, you can effortlessly move into one of our tailored treatment programs for prescription drug dependency.

We provide three unique treatment choices to meet your specific requirements:

• 30-day hospital stay program
• IOP (intensive outpatient treatment)
• Dual diagnosis treatment program

Count on Gratitude Lodge to lead you from active addiction to a path of recovery. We are here to assist you on your path and aid you in taking back your life from prescription medication dependency.

Begin your journey today by reaching out to our admissions team at 844-576-0144.

Sources

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25721705/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27171568/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30850328/