What to expect during your first week of taking Lexapro

Key takeaways

• During your first week, you may experience side effects of Lexapro, but you likely won’t notice much difference in your mood or sense of well-being. It may take up to 6 weeks to feel the positive effects of this antidepressant.
• The most common Lexapro side effects during the first week include insomnia, nausea, fatigue, headache, increased sweating, and sexual difficulties, such as decreased sex drive.
• Lexapro belongs to a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the brain’s access to serotonin to help treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder in individuals ages 12 and over.

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Overview

Lexapro is a brand-name version of the generic drug escitalopram. Healthcare professionals prescribe Lexapro to help treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) for individuals ages 12 years and over.

Lexapro belongs to a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These drugs work by increasing the brain’s access to serotonin.

Your doctor may start you on a low dose of Lexapro. Side effects during the first week are usually mild, especially at lower doses. If necessary, your doctor may increase your dose over time. It’s important to continue taking Lexapro even if you feel better.

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How does Lexapro make you feel during the first week?

You may not notice much difference in your mood or sense of well-being right after you start taking Lexapro. It usually takes up to 6 weeks to feel the effects of this medication.

Like most drugs, Lexapro can have side effects. These can differ from person to person. The most common side effects typically happen within the first and second week of taking this medication. If these side effects don’t get better after the first couple of weeks, let your doctor know.

Some of the most common side effects that have been reported with Lexapro include:

• insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• nausea
• fatigue, drowsiness
• headache
• increased sweating
• decreased sex drive
• sexual difficulties

In addition to these side effects, children and young adults may also experience:

• dizziness
• cold-like symptoms
• abdominal pain
• anxiety, irritability
• increased risk of suicidal thoughts

If you or someone you know is considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support:

• Call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day at 988.
• Text “HOME” to the Crisis Textline at 741741.
• Not in the U.S.? Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders Worldwide.
• Call 911 or your local emergency number if you feel it’s an emergency.

While you wait for help to arrive, stay with someone and remove any weapons or substances that can cause harm. You are not alone.

How long does Lexapro take to work?

Lexapro is generally used as a long-term treatment. While it starts getting to work right away, it takes some time to reach a high enough concentration in your bloodstream. It usually takes about 6 weeks to feel the full effects of the drug.

Some of the first signs that Lexapro is treating your condition include:

• improved sleep
• increased energy
• feeling more optimistic
• improved appetite
• better concentration

Pro tip: Try keeping a symptom diary so you can track how you feel to see if you notice any improvements.

Medical perspectives

What do antidepressants do to the brain?

“Antidepressants help adjust brain signaling involved in mood, emotions, and stress. Over time, these changes can help reduce symptoms of depression and improve daily functioning. Different antidepressants work in different ways, but they are all used to help manage depression.”

— Stanley Saji, PharmD, RPh, MBA

Note: Quotes represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

Learn more about antidepressants here.

Lexapro and existing health conditions

You should tell your healthcare team about existing health conditions or any other medications you take before starting Lexapro. In some instances, Lexapro may affect other existing health conditions.

Your doctor may suggest a different medication or a lower dosage of Lexapro if you have:

• a history of suicidal thoughts
• bipolar disorder
• seizures
• glaucoma

They may also recommend a different medication if you’re pregnant or nursing.

Frequently asked questions about Lexapro

Below, we look at some common questions related to taking Lexapro.

Will I feel better after taking Lexapro for a week?

No, you likely won’t feel the effects of Lexapro after taking it for only a week. Like most antidepressant drugs, you will need to continue taking Lexapro for several weeks before you start noticing any changes. According to research, it usually takes about 6 weeks to feel the full effects of Lexapro.

Some people may experience mild side effects in the first week or two after they start taking Lexapro, like nausea, fatigue, or difficulty sleeping. But these side effects usually go away after a couple of weeks.

What if I forget to take a dose?

If you miss a dose of Lexapro, take it as soon as you remember, unless the time is closer to your next scheduled dose. Don’t double your dose or take more than your doctor tells you to.

What should I avoid while taking Lexapro?

You should avoid alcohol and recreational drugs while taking Lexapro. 

Both alcohol and other drugs can increase the side effects of Lexapro and may be dangerous.

Summary

Lexapro (escitalopram) is an antidepressant that doctors may prescribe for depression or anxiety. 

You likely won’t feel the effects of Lexapro right away. It usually takes about 6 weeks to notice any changes. During the first week of taking this medication, you may experience mild side effects like fatigue, nausea, headaches, or difficulty sleeping.

Talk with a healthcare professional before taking Lexapro to make sure it is safe for you. If a doctor thinks it isn’t right for you, they can prescribe an appropriate alternative.

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Disclaimer: While Optum Perks strives for factual, comprehensive, and current information, this article is not a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional’s expertise. Always consult a doctor before taking or discontinuing any medication. Drug information is subject to change and may not cover all uses, directions, precautions, warnings, interactions, reactions, or adverse effects. The lack of a warning does not guarantee a drug’s safety, effectiveness, or appropriateness for all patients or specific uses.