Table of Contents
How to Take Lexapro (Escitalopram): A Practical Guide
Introduction
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a medication used to treat depression and anxiety. It’s essential to take it correctly to ensure it works effectively and to minimize side effects.
Dosage and Strength
- Tablet Strengths: Lexapro tablets come in 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg.
- Typical Dose: Most people start with 10 mg once daily. Your doctor might adjust this up to a maximum of 20 mg per day based on your needs.
- For Liver Issues: If you have liver problems, the maximum dose is 10 mg daily.
- Liquid Drops: 1 drop = 1 mg; 10 drops = 10 mg; 20 drops = 20 mg.
How to Take Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Frequency: Take Lexapro once a day.
- With or Without Food: You can take it with or without food.
- Time of Day: You can take it at any time, but consistency is crucial. If it causes drowsiness, take it in the evening; if it affects your sleep, take it in the morning.
How Long to Take It
- Duration: Continue taking Lexapro for several months, even if you start feeling better, to prevent symptoms from returning.
- Stopping the Medication: If you feel well for 6 months or more, your doctor might suggest stopping Lexapro. This should be done gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
What to Do if You Miss a Dose
- Missed Dose Reminder: If you remember before bedtime, take it as soon as possible. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.
If You Take Too Much
- Overdose Warning: If you take more than prescribed, contact your doctor immediately or call emergency services. Take the medicine packet or leaflet with you.
Stopping Lexapro (Escitalopram): Tapering Off and Managing Withdrawal Effects
Why Tapering Off is Important
When it comes to stopping Lexapro (escitalopram), it’s crucial to taper off the medication gradually. Stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms that may be uncomfortable or even distressing.
How to Taper Off Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Consult Your Doctor: Always talk to your doctor before stopping Lexapro. They will create a tapering schedule based on your current dose and how long you’ve been taking the medication.
- Gradual Reduction: Typically, your doctor will reduce your dose slowly over a period of weeks or even months. For example, if you’re taking 20 mg daily, you might be reduced to 15 mg for a week, then 10 mg, and so on.
- Listen to Your Body: Everyone responds differently. If you experience withdrawal symptoms, your doctor may slow down the tapering process.
Common Withdrawal Effects
While tapering off Lexapro, you may experience some withdrawal symptoms. These are sometimes referred to as “discontinuation symptoms.”
- Physical Symptoms:
- Dizziness: You might feel lightheaded or unsteady.
- Nausea: Some people experience stomach upset or feel like vomiting.
- Headaches: You might have headaches or a sensation of pressure in your head.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired is common.
- Emotional Symptoms:
- Mood Swings: You might feel more irritable, anxious, or depressed as your body adjusts to lower levels of the medication.
- Crying Spells: Some people experience bouts of crying or sadness.
- Sensory Disturbances:
- Brain Zaps: These are sudden, brief sensations that feel like electric shocks in the brain.
- Tingling Sensations: You might feel tingling in your hands, feet, or other parts of your body.
- Sleep Disturbances:
- Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep can occur.
- Vivid Dreams: Some people report having unusually intense or vivid dreams.
Managing Withdrawal Effects
- Stay in Touch with Your Doctor: Regularly update your doctor on how you’re feeling during the tapering process.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals to support your body.
- Exercise: Light exercise can help manage stress and improve your mood.
- Sleep Hygiene: Establish a calming bedtime routine to help with sleep disturbances.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help ease anxiety and mood swings.
Practical Real-Life Example
Imagine you’re a college student struggling with anxiety. Your doctor prescribes Lexapro to help manage your symptoms. You decide to take it in the morning with your breakfast because you find that it gives you a bit of extra energy, making it easier to focus during your morning classes.
At first, you might feel a little nauseous or more tired than usual, but you stick with it. After a few weeks, you start noticing that your anxiety is more manageable, and you feel more balanced throughout the day. You also make sure to keep hydrated, avoid alcohol, and stay consistent with your daily dose.
This routine helps you feel more in control, and your overall mood improves as the weeks go by, allowing you to better handle the stresses of college life.
When to Seek Help
If withdrawal symptoms become severe or unmanageable, contact your doctor immediately. In some cases, they may suggest slowing down the tapering process or temporarily increasing your dose before trying to taper again.
Common Side Effects
- Mild Side Effects: Nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, or insomnia. These usually improve as your body adjusts.
- Severe Side Effects: Seek immediate help if you experience severe symptoms such as seizures, rapid heart rate, hallucinations, or significant mood changes.
Precautions
- Health Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver, kidney, or heart issues.
- Drug Interactions: Provide a list of all medications you are taking to avoid interactions.
- Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol, as it can increase side effects.
Tips for Optimal Use
- Consistency: Take Lexapro at the same time each day to maintain steady levels in your body.
- Missed Doses: Set a daily alarm or incorporate it into a routine to help remember.
- Side Effects Management: If you experience nausea, try taking Lexapro with a small meal. For insomnia, practice good sleep hygiene.
Summary
Taking Lexapro correctly is crucial for managing your mental health effectively. Follow your doctor’s instructions, maintain a consistent routine, and communicate openly about any concerns or side effects.
