# What are the potential side effects of taking Lexapro for anxiety?

Lily Armstrong · August 4, 2026

> Lexapro, or escitalopram, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, a...

Lexapro, or escitalopram, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation.

Common side effects of Lexapro include nausea, fatigue, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction, which can range from decreased libido to difficulty achieving orgasm.

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A surprising side effect is that some individuals may experience emotional blunting, where they feel less emotional intensity, both positive and negative, after starting the medication.

Weight changes are another potential side effect; some people may gain weight while taking Lexapro, while others may lose weight or have no change at all.

Lexapro can interact with other medications, notably other antidepressants and blood thinners, which can lead to an increased risk of side effects like serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.

The FDA has issued warnings about the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults who take SSRIs including Lexapro.

It may take several weeks for the full effects of Lexapro to be felt, as the brain takes time to adjust to changes in serotonin levels.

Some patients have reported withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing Lexapro, such as dizziness, anxiety, and sensory disturbances often referred to as "brain zaps."

Uniquely, Lexapro is sometimes prescribed off-label to treat conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Research indicates that SSRIs like Lexapro may alter brain structure over long-term use, potentially affecting areas like the hippocampus, which is critical for memory and emotional regulation.

Among older adults, SSRIs can sometimes increase the risk of falls due to side effects such as dizziness and sedation.

Genetic factors can influence how an individual metabolizes Lexapro, affecting the drug's efficacy and the likelihood of experiencing side effects.

Some studies have explored the idea that SSRIs might promote neurogenesis (the growth of new neurons), linking their use to long-term mental health benefits.

Serotonin not only affects mood but also plays a role in digestive function, which explains why gastrointestinal side effects are common with medications that alter serotonin levels.

Lexapro can have a paradoxical effect, where some patients experience increased anxiety or agitation, particularly in the early weeks of treatment.

Notably, SSRIs can affect sleep architecture, potentially leading to changes in REM sleep duration and intensity, which may impact overall sleep quality.

Children and teens may metabolize Lexapro differently than adults, which can affect dosing and side effect profiles, necessitating careful monitoring.

In combination with therapy, Lexapro has been shown to work more effectively for anxiety and depression compared to either treatment alone.

Recent research suggests a link between gut microbiota and mental health, hinting that the efficacy of SSRIs could be influenced by an individual's gut health.

An interesting facet of the treatment journey is that while many experience side effects initially, they may diminish over time as the body adapts, making patience and continuous communication with healthcare providers essential.

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