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Lexapro Insomnia: All You Need to Know

Lexapro insomnia treatment
Written by:

Rabia Khaliq

MSc in Applied Psychology
Reviewer:

Umar Javed

Dr. MBBS

Content

Medical Disclaimer
The medications listed on this website are provided for informational purposes only. Their inclusion does not guarantee that they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. This list is not exhaustive, and healthcare providers may prescribe other medications, including non-stimulant options, based on the patient’s unique health circumstances and needs.Read more
The medications listed on this website are provided for informational purposes only. Their inclusion does not guarantee that they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. This list is not exhaustive, and healthcare providers may prescribe other medications, including non-stimulant options, based on the patient’s unique health circumstances and needs.

People who experience clinical depression and anxiety often get prescribed Lexapro as these mental health issues go together. Lexapro is usually the drug of choice to treat both anxiety and depression. Like many other prescription drugs, Lexapro has some side effects, such as Lexapro insomnia. Learning about Lexapro usage and Lexapro insomnia can help you understand the safety and issues related to this drug.

Let’s dive in,

What is Lexapro? A brief overview

Lexapro is a popular prescription drug approved by FDA for children and adults suffering from mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. The drug belongs to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Get in touch with Medvidi to seek expert help to overcome your anxiety and depression symptoms!

How does Lexapro work in the brain?

Lexapro affects certain brain parts to keep a balance of Serotonin levels. Serotonin is a crucial brain chemical responsible for maintaining mood and behaviors. Lexapro works by slowing the process of serotonin reuptake by inhibiting the reuptake sites and leaving more serotonin in the brain for a longer duration. Optimal serotonin levels in the brain decrease the symptoms of both depression and anxiety.

What does Lexapro treat?

Lexapro is prescribed for the following mental health issues:

  • Major depressive disorder
  • Generalized anxiety disorder

Off-label Lexapro is prescribed for the following mental health issues:

  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder
  • Panic disorder
  • Eating disorder
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder

What is the best time to take Lexapro for anxiety?

Lexapro dosage and the best time to take the drug for anxiety can only be determined by a mental health professional. Lexapro should be taken only under a mental health professional’s strict supervision and guidance.

Consult the professionals at MEDvidi to get the best medication for severe insomnia. Click on the button below!

Lexapro dosage for generalized anxiety disorder in adults

Here is the summary of the recommended Lexapro dosage and the best time to take the drug for anxiety:

For adults:

  • Starting dose of 10 mg is to be taken once a day in the morning or evening; the doctor may determine to increase the dose later.

For older adults:

  • Starting dose of 10 mg is to be taken once a day in the morning or evening.

Next,

What are the side effects of Lexapro?

Lexapro is a well-tolerated drug compared to other prescription drug options for anxiety and depression. However, the long-term use and higher doses of Lexapro may exhibit some common and severe side effects, as listed below.

The common Lexapro side effects are as follows:

  • Abnormal muscle movements
  • Increased thirst
  • Growth changes
  • Heavy menstrual periods
  • Pain in urination
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Yawning
  • Constipation
  • Sweating
  • Shaking
  • Loss of appetite
  • Infections
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Anxiety
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea

There are some severe side effects associated with Lexapro, including Lexapro weight gain and Lexapro insomnia.

Lexapro weight gain – people using Lexapro may gain weight. This is because Lexapro alters the serotonin levels, and serotonin directly affects controlling weight.

Lexapro insomnia can be best treated by getting professional help. Click the button below to get started!

How common is insomnia with Lexapro?

It is seen that approximately 10% of the patients using Lexapro tend to develop Lexapro insomnia which is considered to be one of the significant adverse effects of this drug.

How long does Lexapro insomnia last?

Lexapro insomnia first-week intensity does not let a person sleep even if they are tired or suffering from fatigue. Some people might be able to sleep with time, but they face difficulties in staying asleep for average durations.

Moving on,

Lexapro dosage

Does Lexapro insomnia go away?

Starting the Lexapro usage as part of the treatment might take one week to two weeks to lower the impact of Lexapro insomnia. Still, with time, there is a marked improvement in the sleep cycle.

However, if the Lexapro insomnia does not subsides even after several weeks, talk to your mental health professional immediately.

Let our experts at Medvidi help you regain your restful sleep.

Landing on the last part.

Lexapro insomnia treatment

Lexapro insomnia can have debilitating effects on a person’s daily life. It ruins the quality of life and exaggerates the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

How to treat insomnia from Lexapro?

Although the best treatment is only possible by getting professional help from a certified mental health expert, there are still some ways listed below that may help manage the Lexapro insomnia symptoms:

  • Avoid alcoholLexapro and alcohol combined can increase the sedative effect, which can disrupt sleep in the long run.
  • Take Lexapro in the morning – the insomniac effect of Lexapro may lessen till midnight.
  • Avoid caffeinated drinks – caffeinated drinks are stimulants and may prevent falling asleep.
  • Exercise – optimal levels of regular exercise can help you sleep better.
  • Avoid distractions – keep your cell phones, laptops, and other technological devices away to avoid distractions.

Final Word

Lexapro insomnia is strongly associated with Lexapro as a drug of choice for anxiety and depression. However, the side effects of Lexapro must subside over time, and professional help must be taken for symptoms management.

Medvidi is the ultimate platform to get the best professional help for mental health issues, the safest prescription medication, and associated symptoms. Join Medvidi now!

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Written by:

Rabia Khaliq

MSc in Applied Psychology
Reviewer:

Umar Javed

Dr. MBBS
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