Lexapro is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat anxiety and depression. People may need to take Lexapro for several weeks before noticing the drug’s effects. When people stop taking Lexapro, they may experience withdrawal symptoms.

This article will explore what to expect during Lexapro withdrawal. You will learn:

• Common Lexapro withdrawal symptoms
• What happens at each stage of the Lexapro withdrawal timeline
• What treatment can help you manage Lexapro withdrawal
• Where to find treatment and support during Lexapro withdrawal

Contact the specialists at Moving Mountains Recovery to learn more about our treatment and recovery support programs. You may reach out anytime with questions or to set up an intake appointment. 

What is Lexapro?

Lexapro is a brand name for a drug called escitalopram. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).[1] Medical professionals may prescribe Lexapro to help patients manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions, including:[1,2]

• Panic disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) 

Lexapro is not physically addictive. However, people who use it for long periods may become psychologically addicted to it. This means that long-time Lexapro users may become dependent on the drug and experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop using it.

People who use Lexapro must follow their doctor’s orders. It is important to discuss the potential for side effects and dependence when taking any antidepressant medications. If you experience unwanted side effects or have signs of dependence, seek help immediately. 

What to Expect During Lexapro Withdrawal

Stopping Lexapro (escitalopram) suddenly can cause people to experience antidepressant withdrawal symptoms (also known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome). Some of the most common symptoms of Lexapro withdrawal include:[3,4]

• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Headaches
• Agitation
• A tingling sensation or feelings of “electric shocks” throughout the body
• Nausea
• Increased anxiety
• Sexual symptoms
• Poor concentration
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Lower stress tolerance
• Weight changes
• Suicidal thoughts
• Flu-like symptoms

People who stop taking Lexapro may experience withdrawal symptoms within days of stopping the medication. While many of these symptoms are merely uncomfortable, some people develop life-threatening depression with suicidal thoughts.

It is important to have physical and emotional support throughout the Lexapro withdrawal process. If you experience withdrawal symptoms after stopping Lexapro, seek support immediately. 

Understanding the Lexapro Withdrawal Timeline

Each person will have their own experience with Lexapro withdrawal. Many factors can impact your withdrawal timeline, including:

• How long you took Lexapro
• How much Lexapro you have been taking
• If you tapered Lexapro or quit “cold turkey”
• Your general mental and physical health

Generally, Lexapro withdrawal symptoms occur in two stages. In the acute stages, people may experience more physical symptoms. In the later stages, psychological symptoms may occur.[3,4]

Here is an overview of the Lexapro withdrawal timeline. 

Days 1-3

Most people begin to notice symptoms within the first one to three days after quitting Lexapro. Symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Flu-like symptoms
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Agitation
• Tingling sensations throughout the body

These symptoms can make people very uncomfortable.

Days 4-7

Withdrawal symptoms worsen over the first several days. In addition to physical symptoms, people may begin to notice increased depression, mood swings, agitation, and other mental health symptoms. 

For most, symptoms peak around the fifth day after quitting Lexapro.

Two weeks

Over the next few days, most people begin to notice an improvement in their physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms. By the end of the second week, most people will notice their symptoms have almost disappeared. 

6-8 weeks

In rare cases, people may experience withdrawal symptoms that last for eight weeks or longer. People with long-lasting symptoms may require extra support and treatment to avoid relapse and improve functioning. 

Lexapro withdrawal can be challenging. However, finding the right treatment and support can help you manage your symptoms and have a safe, complete detox. 

What Treatment Is Available During Lexapro Withdrawal?

Lexapro withdrawal can be challenging if you attempt to go “cold turkey.” It is crucial to get treatment and support to manage withdrawal safely. 

Lexapro withdrawal treatment programs can provide essential physical and emotional support to help people manage their symptoms. Healthcare professionals and mental health specialists offer tailored therapies to help people stay safe and comfortable throughout detox. 

A Lexapro withdrawal treatment program may include:

• A medication tapering program
• Prescription and over-the-counter medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms
• Emotional support, including individual therapy and support groups
• Holistic therapies for comfort and calm, including art therapy, mindfulness, nutrition support, and exercise
• Round-the-clock access to treatment and support
• A secure, supportive environment

If you need to stop using Lexapro, you do not have to manage withdrawal alone. Treatment and support are available at Moving Mountains Recovery. Our programs provide comprehensive, compassionate support that empowers people as they work toward long-term recovery.

Find Treatment Now

At Moving Mountains Recovery, we offer Lexapro withdrawal support programs to help people safely detox and move forward. We can also provide comprehensive mental health and depression treatment. Reach out to our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake assessment.