The medication Lexapro (escitalopram) is used to treat anxiety and depression, and can be effective but is not always the long-term solution to managing your anxiety. As you consider stopping prescription medications such as Lexapro, it is very important to speak with a doctor before stopping this drug. Stopping it abruptly can cause your body to negatively react with various withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, headaches, and agitation. Professionals often recommend gradual reduction in dosage of Lexapro, which can help prevent unpleasant symptoms associated with antidepressant withdrawal.
How to wean off Lexapro:
- If you think it makes sense for you, then take action! Make sure you take the right steps and do it safely with guidance from a professional.
- Abruptly stopping Lexapro will like negatively affect both your physical and mental health, so you may not go “cold turkey” right from the start.
- Common symptoms from Lexapro withdrawal within the first few days include trouble sleeping, irritability, headaches and upset stomach, or what are considered flu-like symptoms.
- Secondary symptoms may include feelings of anxiety, depression, trouble focusing, poor memory and these symptoms often occur weeks after stopping Lexapro
- Need professional help? Addiction & mental health treatment centers who specialize in antidepressants like Fountain Hills Recovery, or others in your area, can help you get off Lexapro safely. Reach out for help!
Lexapro withdrawal symptoms:
Lexapro withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person and can range in severity. Common Lexapro withdrawal symptoms may include:
Physical Symptoms:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Flu-like symptoms (muscle aches, chills)
Psychological and Emotional Symptoms:
- Anxiety or increased anxiety levels
- Irritability or agitation
- Mood swings
- Depression or worsening of depressive symptoms
- Trouble concentrating or brain fog
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or vivid dreams)
It’s important to note that not everyone will experience the same symptoms, and the intensity and duration of withdrawal symptoms can vary. Some individuals may have mild symptoms that resolve within a few days, while others may experience more severe or prolonged symptoms.
Finding Support & Treatment for Lexapro Withdrawal Symptoms:
People who stop taking Lexapro and other antidepressants due to a variety of reasons. Some individuals find the medication does little to help them feel better, don’t believe it’s a long-term solution or they become intolerant to it.
Choosing the right withdrawal center can be challenging, as it has to do with the duration of the program and the severity of the patient’s symptoms. Some people choose to go through an outpatient program, while others require detox and 24-hour supervision, and many look for post-withdrawal treatment to manage their anxiety. Having the proper facility can help patients realize that they can get back on track and feel better.
Why Fountain Hills Recovery?
Fountain Hills Recovery is a luxury primary mental health treatment facility in the Phoenix, Arizona area that can help individuals who are struggling with the withdrawal symptoms caused by SSRIs such as Lexapro. We offer a variety of treatment programs that are designed to meet the needs of each individual.
Therapies for our mental health and addiction programs include:
- Multiple levels of care – enables clients to heal at their own pace
- High staff-to-client ratio – clients receive greater care and attention
- Strong community around you –frequent one-on-one therapy and group therapy within a strong cultural and social environment
- Holistic and experiential work – equine therapy, music therapy, fitness, yoga, and much, much more
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) – will work with medical staff and detox centers as needed.
- TMS therapy – can regulate discomfort and cravings during and after the recovery process
Contact us to learn more about our luxury facilities, outstanding therapies and schedule a tour.
