How Long Does it Take for Lexapro to Work?

Can Lexapro Work Immediately?

Lexapro (escitalopram) typically takes time to reach its full therapeutic effect. It is not common for Lexapro to work immediately, and most individuals may not experience significant improvements in their symptoms until after a few weeks of consistent use. The medication works by gradually increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. This requires time for the body to adjust and for the medication to take effect.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), it usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks for individuals to notice the full benefits of Lexapro. However, some people may start to feel certain effects, such as improved mood or reduced anxiety, within the first few days or weeks of treatment.

It’s important to be patient and continue taking Lexapro as prescribed, even if immediate effects are not experienced. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide guidance and support throughout the treatment process.

Timeline for Lexapro for Work

The timeline for how long it takes for Lexapro to work can vary among individuals. This antidepressant starts exerting an effect on the central nervous system and altering neurotransmitter levels, particularly serotonin, on the very first day of administration.

While a small percentage of users may respond rapidly, most individuals will typically notice the effects of Lexapro after several weeks of daily administration, usually between weeks 4 and 8 of treatment. In some cases, it may take longer than 8 weeks for individuals to experience the full therapeutic benefit. It is important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized guidance and to monitor individual responses to Lexapro treatment.

Here is the general timeline for Lexapro to start working:

• First dose and the first few weeks: After taking the first dose of Lexapro, it typically takes several weeks to start experiencing the full effects of the medication. Some initial signs that Lexapro has started working may include improvements in sleep, energy levels, or appetite. In some individuals, these improvements may occur as early as 1 to 2 weeks after starting treatment.
• By the end of the first two months: By the end of the first two months of treatment with Lexapro, most individuals should start noticing significant improvements in their symptoms. These improvements may include a reduction in depressive mood, an increase in interest or enjoyment in activities, and an overall improvement in well-being. It can take up to 6 to 8 weeks for these effects to fully manifest.
• Beyond two months: For some individuals, it may take longer than two months to experience the full effects of Lexapro. It is estimated that over 80% of Lexapro users will report the medication working within 4 to 8 weeks of administration, but certain individuals may require a longer duration exceeding 8 weeks to attain therapeutic benefit and notice that the medication has fully taken effect. It’s important to continue taking Lexapro as prescribed and consult with a healthcare professional regarding the progress and any concerns.

How Fast Does Lexapro Work for Anxiety?

Lexapro may start to have an impact on anxiety symptoms within the first week of treatment. However, it is important to note that achieving the optimal response may take up to 12 weeks. The timeline for improvement can vary depending on factors such as an individual’s body chemistry, the severity of symptoms, the dosage and frequency of administration, as well as the presence of other medications or medical conditions.

Similarly, in the case of depression symptoms, Lexapro may lead to some improvement within a week of starting treatment. However, it may take approximately 8 to 12 weeks to observe the full response. The effectiveness and speed of response may differ for each person.²

Signs that Lexapro is working for anxiety and depression can include a range of positive changes. These may encompass an improved mood and increased energy levels, a reduction in feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness, an enhanced interest and pleasure in activities, better sleep quality and appetite, decreased anxiety and worry, improved concentration and memory, and an overall more positive outlook and improved coping skills.

It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider during this treatment period to monitor progress, assess the effectiveness of Lexapro, and make any necessary adjustments to the dosage or treatment plan. The individual response to Lexapro may vary, and personalized care and ongoing communication with healthcare professionals are essential to ensure the best possible outcome.

How Long Does It Take Lexapro to Work for Depression?

Lexapro may start to have an impact on depression symptoms within a week of initiating treatment. However, it may take up to 12 weeks to achieve a full response. The timeline for improvement can vary based on individual factors such as body chemistry, symptom severity, dosage, frequency of administration, and the presence of other medications or medical conditions.

Signs that Lexapro is working for depression can include an improved mood and increased energy levels, a reduction in feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness, an increased interest and pleasure in activities, better sleep quality and appetite, enhanced concentration and memory, and a more positive outlook and improved coping skills. However, it’s important to note that these signs may differ for each person, and the degree of improvement can vary.

Monitoring symptoms and maintaining regular communication with a healthcare provider are essential during the treatment period. This allows for the assessment of progress, evaluation of Lexapro’s effectiveness, and adjustments to the dosage or treatment plan if needed. It is important to openly discuss any concerns or changes in symptoms with your doctor to ensure the best possible outcome and personalized care.

How Does Lexapro Make You Feel the First Week?

During the first week of taking Lexapro, some people may feel some side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, anxiety, fatigue, dizziness, and sexual problems. The severity of these side effects may depend on the initial dose. They usually subside on their own, but your doctor may prescribe a benzodiazepine to help you cope.

Some people may also feel some improvement in their mood or anxiety within hours or days of taking Lexapro, while others may need several weeks or months to achieve optimal results. This may vary depending on the individual’s body chemistry, the severity of symptoms, the dosage and frequency of administration, and the presence of other medications or medical conditions.

Potential Side Effects of Lexapro

Like any medication, Lexapro may cause side effects in some people. Some medication adjustment effects are mild and tend to go away within a few weeks as the body adjusts to the medication. However, some people may experience persistent or severe side effects due to the direct action of the medication for as long as they take the medication. These side effects may require medical attention.

Common Lexapro side effects include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Dry mouth
• Delayed ejaculation
• Drowsiness

Severe side effects of Lexapro that require immediate medical attention include:

• Suicidal thoughts
• Worsening depression
• Serotonin syndrome
• Mania
• Angle-closure glaucoma
• Hyponatremia
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe allergic reactions

*All medications, including Lexapro, can cause side effects that can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

How Do You Know if Lexapro Is Working?

A person might notice the beneficial effects of Lexapro by feeling an improvement in their mood or anxiety within hours or days of taking the medication. However, it may take several weeks or months to achieve optimal results. This may vary depending on the individual’s body chemistry, the severity of symptoms, the dosage and frequency of administration, and the presence of other medications or medical conditions. You will also see improved sleep quality and appetite, reduced feelings of sadness, hopelessness, increased interest in activities, and enhanced concentration and memory.⁴

These benefits may occur within a week or two of taking Lexapro. However, some symptoms, such as being uninterested in activities and having depressive feelings, might take up to 6 – 8 weeks before seeing improvement.

What to Do When Lexapro Is Not Working

Sometimes, Lexapro may not work well for some people or stop working after a while. This can happen due to different reasons like drug or alcohol use, pregnancy, new stressors, interactions with other medications, and individual differences. If you feel like Lexapro isn’t working for you, don’t stop taking it suddenly. Talk to your doctor first because stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and it’s important to avoid alcohol and drugs while taking Lexapro.

There are options to discuss with your doctor if Lexapro isn’t working. They may adjust the dose, add another medication, or switch to a different one. Finding the right treatment may take time, but don’t lose hope. Medication, therapy, support groups, self-care, and seeking help when needed are all helpful ways to improve your mental health and well-being. Remember, your doctor will consider your situation and guide you toward the best option for you.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About How Long Lexapro Takes to Work

Talk with your doctor or psychiatrist about how long it takes for Lexapro to work. Ask about the typical duration for the medication to work and what signs to watch for. If you need to change prescribers, online psychiatry services can provide convenient access to qualified professionals for assessments, medication management, and therapy.

Questions to ask your care team about how long it may take Lexapro to work:

• How long will it take for Lexapro to work?
• What changes can I expect, and what happens if I don’t notice any changes?
• What common side effects should I look out for?
• What happens if I miss a dose?
• How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Lexapro?
• Am I at risk for more severe symptoms if I am already taking other anxiety /depression medications?
• What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects?
• Are there drugs I am taking that could have negative interactions?
• When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing side effects?
• What is the recommended dosage of Lexapro for my specific condition? How will the dosage be adjusted over time, if necessary?
• Are there any specific instructions I should follow when taking Lexapro? For example, should I take it with food or at a particular time of the day?
• Can Lexapro interact with any other medications or supplements I am currently taking? Are there any substances or activities I should avoid while using Lexapro?
• Are there any known risks or contraindications associated with Lexapro that I should be aware of?

In My Experience

In my experience as a pharmacist, it is crucial to discuss the timeframe for Lexapro to take effect with your doctor. Open and honest conversations about expectations and concerns are important. While the article provides insights into the timeline and signs of improvement with Lexapro for anxiety and depression, it’s essential to remember that individual responses may vary.

When addressing anxiety and depression, a comprehensive approach that includes medication, such as Lexapro, along with therapy or counseling, can be beneficial. It’s important to engage in therapy to develop coping strategies and address underlying issues contributing to these conditions.

The outlook for clients experiencing anxiety or depression can be positive with the right treatment and support. Patience is key, as the full benefits of Lexapro may take several weeks to manifest. Regular communication with healthcare professionals is vital for monitoring progress and adjusting the treatment plan if necessary. Prioritizing self-care, seeking support from loved ones, and following the guidance of healthcare providers are essential steps. Remember that finding the right treatment may involve some trial and error, but there is support available to help you on your journey toward improved mental well-being.