*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a depression medication that may cause sexual side effects for some, such as low sex drive in both men and women, difficulty reaching orgasm in women, and delayed ejaculation in men. A medical provider may advise either a change in dosage or a different medication to avoid these effects.
If you are considering Lexapro or want to discuss your current medication treatment with a provider, online psychiatry platforms, such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health are a good place to start. Their providers offer assessments and prescription consultation, and can answer any questions you have about Lexapro sexual side effects.
Boxed Warning: Escitalopram (Lexapro) - Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people
Escitalopram, the active ingredient in Lexapro, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Escitalopram can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with escitalopram and any other medications before starting treatment.
What Is Lexapro (Escitalopram) & How Is it Used?
Lexapro (escitalopram) is an FDA-approved medication for treating depression and anxiety in adults and children between 12-17 years old. The medication is taken orally as a tablet or a solution. The dosage starts from 10 and 20mg for the oral tablet. It contains escitalopram, which is also commonly used for treating OCD, PTSD, and eating disorders.
Lexapro (escitalopram) belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) medication class. These drugs are known to increase serotonin levels in the brain and the body. Increased serotonin affects mood, and fear, and improves stress response and appetite. In order to manage mental health symptoms, these effects have made it an often prescribed medication for depression and medication for anxiety.
What Causes Lexapro Sexual Side Effects?
Lexapro affects sexual functioning by causing delayed ejaculation, low sexual desire, and post-SSRI sexual dysfunction in some cases. This medication increases serotonin levels in the brain and body. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps in regulating moods and emotional well-being and may also affect sexual functioning, such as sexual interest and libido. 1
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Lexapro Sexual Side Effects
Sexual side effects of Lexapro occur in some people who take it but not all. Those treated for anxiety may be more prone to getting the side effect than those treated for depression. 2
These symptoms are found in both men and women but can be more common among men. Men can experience delayed ejaculations, pain in erections, and low sex drive. Women have shown symptoms such as reduced sexual desire and difficulty with orgasms.
Sexual Side Effects of Escitalopram in Women
Sexual side effects caused by escitalopram, such as low sex drive, can be frustrating and may negatively impact relationships. Women with these symptoms should consult a medical provider for guidance and strategies to minimize these effects.
Common escitalopram sexual side effects in women include: 3
- Reduced sexual desire
- Delayed orgasm
- Difficulty achieving orgasms
Sexual Side Effects of Escitalopram in Men
Some sexual side effects in men, including delayed ejaculation and reduced sex drive, may impact a relationship. Men with concerns about sexual side effects should talk to their medical provider for recommendations.
Common escitalopram sexual side effects in men include:
- Reduced sex drive
- Delayed ejaculation
- Erectile dysfunction
How to Cope With Sexual Side Effects of Lexapro
The best way to manage this situation is to reach out to your healthcare provider as soon as you notice any of these side effects. Only a licensed prescriber can adjust your prescription.
Adjust Your Dose
Lexapro is given in different doses, 10mg, and 20mg depending on the severity of your depression or anxiety. If the medication is taking a toll on your sexual health, a healthcare provider may advise reducing the dose. However, they will advise you to check whether you will start experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms. Please remember that dose adjustments can only be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as this will help avoid antidepressant withdrawal symptoms or other complications. 5, 6
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Consider Switching Antidepressants
Lexapro is an anti-depressant that is safe for use over a long period 7. The first thing a healthcare provider may do is adjust your dose to reduce the sexual side effects. In a situation where there are no improvements, the medical provider will recommend a change in medication. This can only be done by a qualified healthcare professional to avoid side effects and complications. 8
Consider Therapy
Talk therapy is a depression and anxiety solution that allows you to address its root causes by talking to a therapist. Therapy can be used to treat depression and anxiety; however, it might sometimes be combined with medication depending on the seriousness of the mental health issues.
Psychotherapy can be beneficial for coping with Lexapro’s sexual side effects, and a medical practitioner may recommend it if you are experiencing persistent side effects. Online therapy can be a convenient option if in-person therapy is not feasible or desired. Finding the right therapist is an important first step for coping with your mental health condition and possibly the impacts of sexual side effects.
Talk to Your Partner
In cases where anxiety and depression might be severe, the doctor might recommend continued medication use. In this case, talking to your partner can help them understand your situation and support you during treatment.
Try Natural Remedies
There is a variety of natural remedies for anxiety that help relieve mild and moderate symptoms. Some of these remedies include lifestyle changes which involve eating healthier and nourishing foods which will help improve overall good health. Improving sleep patterns have a positive effect on your physical and mental health. Writing down your thoughts in a journal help relieve stress. Other natural remedies include starting a meditation routine, spending quality time outside, and exercising consistently.
Questions to Ask Your Health Team
Understanding any side effects, a medication might have on you once you start taking it is very helpful as it prepares you psychologically. It will also help identify any symptom unrelated to the medication prompting you to seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or your doctor’s hotline number.
Questions to ask your care team about the sexual side effects of Lexapro include:
- Am I at risk for more severe symptoms if I am already taking other anxiety /depression medications?
- What is the best dosage to reduce the side effects?
- Is it possible to overdose on Lexapro?
- When should I contact you if I am experiencing Lexapro sexual side effects?
- Is there anything I should tell my therapist about this new medication?
- How long will I be expected to take medication?
- Are there any risks of switching anti-depressants?
- Can the sexual side effects last a lifetime?
- What are some of the side effects that will show my anti-depressant dosage is low?
In My Experience
In my experience, Lexapro is an effective antidepressant that is safe for use with medical supervision. If you experience sexual side effects from taking this medication, talk to your healthcare provider. Adjusting your Lexapro dosage without consulting a medical provider can be risky. Healthcare providers will advise you on alternative strategies for managing these side effects effectively and safely.
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
Virtual Psychiatry
Circle Medical – Anxiety and Depression Treatment. Meet with an online doctor today! All prescriptions are based on necessity determined by a medical professional. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. No membership or hidden fees. Same day appointments. Visit Circle Medical
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Brightside Health – develops personalized plans that are unique to you and offers 1 on 1 support from start to finish. Brightside Health accepts United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna. Appointments in as little as 24 hours. Start Free Assessment
Talk Therapy
BetterHelp – Get support and guidance from a licensed therapist. BetterHelp has over 30,000 therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. BetterHelp starts at $65 per week and is FSA/HSA eligible by most providers. Take a Free Online Assessment and get matched with the right therapist for you. Take free assessment
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- Medication for Depression: Types, Side Effects, and Management
- 22 Natural Remedies for Anxiety
- How Do Antidepressants Make You Feel? Possible Side Effects & Changes
- Lexapro Weight Gain: Everything You Need to Know
- Lexapro & Alcohol: Understanding the Risks
- Lexapro (Escitalopram) Side Effects: Rare, Common, & Severe
Online Anxiety Test
A few questions from Talkiatry can help you understand your symptoms and give you a recommendation for what to do next.
Best Online Psychiatry Services
Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.
