Learning about medication for depression or anxiety can be daunting. There are a lot of options out there! If you’re interested in getting a Lexapro prescription or you’ve heard of Lexapro but don’t know what it is, you’re at the right place.
We’ve made a guide that breaks down what Lexapro is, what types of clients benefit from Lexapro, and how Lexapro compares to other SSRIs. We’ve also included details about the evaluation and prescribing process, and how to be prescribed Lexapro, including options if you don’t have insurance.
What is Lexapro?
Lexapro is a commonly prescribed antidepressant and a brand name for escitalopram. SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressant medication. They generally tend to have fewer side effects than other medications used to treat anxiety and depression.
Lexapro is FDA-approved to treat both major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). This antidepressant works by boosting the amount of serotonin in your brain and stabilizing your mood.
Because Lexapro is an SSRI, it’s chemically related to other well-known antidepressants like Zoloft (sertraline) and Prozac (fluoxetine). But no two SSRIs are identical. They each have slightly different side effects, profiles, and half-lives. This is why it’s important for your psychiatrist to ask detailed questions before recommending one over the other.
Lexapro, however, has been shown to be significantly more effective than other antidepressant agents. In a 2023 study, Lexapro proved more competitive, and in some cases superior, to treating major depressive disorder. In a 2024 study, escitalopram measurably improved mood and quality of life in patients.
Who is Lexapro best for?
Lexapro is a good option for anyone older than 7 years old experiencing depression or anxiety. It's a well-studied and easily tolerated antidepressant.
You might be a good candidate for Lexapro if you:
Experience depression, anxiety, or both
Have Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Have Major Depressive Disorder
Haven't tried an SSRI before
Are taking other medication, as Lexapro rarely interacts poorly with other drugs
Still, Lexapro isn't right for everyone. For example, people with a history of bipolar disorder typically aren't given SSRIs as they might worsen their symptoms if taken alone. You'll also need to be careful if you have heart, kidney, or liver complications.
Before prescribing Lexapro, your psychiatrist will consider your symptoms, health conditions, current medication, and in-depth medical history to see if you’re the right candidate.
What is the evaluation process like to get on Lexapro?
If you're looking to be prescribed Lexapro, or any SSRI, you'll first need to get a clinical evaluation. This can be completed by your primary care doctor, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, or a psychiatrist.
During an evaluation for Lexapro, a provider will typically ask you about:
Your current symptoms. Your psychiatrist wants to know how long you've had them, and how they impact your daily life.
Personal and family mental health history. This includes any history of Bipolar Disorder or other mental health disorders.
Current medications, dietary or herbal supplements, or substances you're using. Some combinations increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Your physical health conditions and any previous reactions to psychiatric medication.
Prior to starting Lexapro, many patients find it helpful to evaluate and track their mood, sleep, depression, and anxiety for a couple of weeks. This way, you can provide accurate and detailed information to your prescriber.
How long does Lexapro take to work?
Lexapro's effects are gradual. You will not feel dramatic changes overnight. For most clients, it takes a few weeks for their brain to adjust to the change in serotonin levels. Most people starting Lexapro notice some early shifts, like slightly better sleep, within the first or second week, but it may take you several weeks to feel the effects.
And while most adults are started at 10 mg once daily, your psychiatrist might increase your dosage to something more appropriate. Dosage increases and decreases should always be made with the guidance of a provider. And you should never stop Lexapro abruptly. If you want to stop Lexapro, it’s important for your long-term health to gradually decrease your dosage with the help of your prescribing psychiatrist.
If after 6-8 weeks you don't notice any improvement, check in with your psychiatrist. They might change your dosage or prescribe a different SSRI for you. Your age, liver function, and other medications all play a role in how your dosage is determined and adjusted.
Side effects of Lexapro
Like all SSRIs, Lexapro has some side effects. Most people tolerate this antidepressant quite well. However, it's important to be aware of the associated side effects so you can assess your own health. A variety of studies and medical reporting has been completed discussing side effects of Lexapro and we’ve made a compiled list.
Lexapro's side effects include:
Nausea
Sweating
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Insomnia
Sleepiness
Decreased or loss of libido
Delay in orgasm or ejaculation, or sometimes inability to orgasm or ejaculate
General erectile dysfunction or vaginismus
Impaired coordination, reaction time, or sometimes judgment
Most mild side effects, though, like nausea, headaches, and sleep changes, tend to improve within the first couple of weeks.
More serious side effects of Lexapro:
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Allergic reactions
New or worsening thoughts of suicide
Sexual dysfunction that persists after stopping medication
These types of side effects should be reported to a provider right away. If these side effects show up, they usually happen when you first start Lexapro or right after you change your SSRI dosage. However, they can present at any time.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or want to talk to someone ASAP, these hotlines are available for you. Text 988 or chat online. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911 immediately.
Other SSRIs Anxiety Medication
Lexapro isn't the only SSRI, and it might not be the best fit for you.
Other commonly prescribed SSRIs that might fit your needs better include:
Zoloft (Sertraline): it has similar effectiveness to Lexapro. Sometimes, people prefer Zoloft if they have co-occurring OCD or PTSD symptoms.
Paxil (Paroxetine): This SSRI is effective, but some say it causes weight gain and is more difficult to discontinue than Lexapro.
Celexa (Citalopram): This is the predecessor of Lexapro. It has the same active compound, but Lexapro is purified and more targeted.
Prozac (Fluxetine): Has a longer half-life than most SSRIs. This means it's a bit easier to stop if you need to, and it won't have as severe side effects.
*Wellbutrin (Bupropion): Sometimes prescribed instead of an SSRI, or alongside an SSRI. *It is not an SSRI and works differently. It regulates your mood by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine rather than serotonin. Wellbutrin doesn't have as many side effects as Lexapro, and usually doesn't present as severe sexual side effects.
This is a very brief overview of the other medication options, but for a more informed breakdown, ask your psychiatrist or PCP. They'll be able to consider your symptoms and health and find the right fit for you.
How to get prescribed Lexapro
If you’re ready to start Lexapro for your anxiety and depression, start by scheduling an evaluation.
We offer psychiatric services and can evaluate you via telehealth or in-person. If Lexapro is the appropriate next step, we'll be able to provide that prescription. Currently, our psychiatrists are accepting new patients and accept most major insurance plans.
If you're not insured and need a Lexapro prescription, we offer affordable self-pay rates.
If you have questions or are ready to schedule your evaluation, prioritize your health and call us today.
