Does Lexapro make you tired? Discover why Lexapro fatigue occurs, how long it lasts, and practical ways to manage it. Get expert help from Therapy Fleet.

Does Lexapro Make You Tired?

Tiredness or fatigue is a common side effect in the early weeks of treatment with medications like Lexapro or Zoloft. When Lexapro is mixed with alcohol, it may cause adverse effects and dangerous interactions. It is strongly advised not to combine medications with alcohol.

If you experience persistent side effects using Lexapro, don’t hesitate to discuss it with your mental health professional at Therapy Fleet. Help is just one click away.

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What Is Lexapro Used For?

Lexapro (generic name: Escitalopram) is an antidepressant used to treat a certain type of depression and anxiety. It belongs to a drug class, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), approved by the FDA for treating:

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder

Lexapro is sometimes used off-label, and Off-label uses of Lexapro (Escitalopram) are

• Social anxiety disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Panic disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder

How Does Lexapro (Escitalopram) Work?

Lexapro (Escitalopram) works by increasing the activity of Serotonin, which helps to improve mood. By boosting serotonin levels, Lexapro helps to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It is a prescription medication and taken by mouth (oral medication)

Studies support the efficacy of escitalopram in helping:

• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• panic disorder
• obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Does Lexapro Make You Tired?

Do you often feel tired or drowsy most of the day, even after getting enough sleep? This could be a possible side effect of Lexapro (Escitalopram). Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of taking antidepressants like Lexapro (Escitalopram). 

Symptoms like tiredness, dizziness, loss of energy, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, weight loss, or weight gain may be experienced by some people using SSRIs or SNRIs Wellbutrin (Bupropion), or Prozac (Fluoxetine). These symptoms may appear at the initial stage of using Lexapro and may improve with time when the body adjusts to the medication. Common side effects of using Wellbutrin are:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Insomnia
• Sexual dysfunction

Everybody responds differently to medication therapy. Studies suggest that nearly 10% to 38% of people experience dizziness and grogginess using antidepressants. Lexapro (Escitalopram) has been linked to a higher chance of tiredness and fatigue compared to the placebo.

Daytime sleepiness and tiredness may often lead some patients to discontinue the Lexapro treatment. Learning the best time to take Lexapro may help you understand how to minimize these side effects and increase effectiveness.  

Why Does Lexapro (Escitalopram) Make You Tired?

• Every person responds differently to the Lexapro (Escitalopram). If you are not taking your medication as prescribed, it may lead to side effects such as tiredness or fatigue. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
• Lexapro works by increasing the natural neurotransmitter, called serotonin in the brain. Serotonin helps in improving mood, alertness, and sleep. Serotonin doesn’t work alone; neurotransmitters such as GABA, dopamine, histamine, adenosine, glutamate, and hypocretin also affect wakefulness and the sleep cycle.
• When you start taking Lexapro, your brain needs time to adjust and balance serotonin levels. This neurotransmitter imbalance may result in fatigue, drowsiness, and tiredness. 

How Long Does Lexapro-Related Tiredness Last?

By using Lexapro (Escitalopram), Fatigue or tiredness improves within 2 to 4 weeks as the body adjusts to the medication. Everybody has a different body response to the medication, and for some people, fatigue and tiredness may last for a few weeks. If tiredness continues, consult your doctor to adjust your medication.

In some patients, fatigue or feelings of tiredness may lessen with time. Learn more about how long it takes for Lexapro to work for anxiety.

7 Tips to Manage Lexapro-Related Tiredness.

Feeling tired, fatigue, dizziness, and drowsiness are some common side effects of Lexapro treatment, but they can be managed. Here are some tips that help reduce Lexapro-related tiredness.

1. Be Patient and Wait

Lexapro takes time for the body to adjust. Be patient. Tiredness and fatigue will improve with time.

If tiredness or fatigue persists for a few weeks, your doctor can guide you and adjust your medication.

2. Changing Dosage Time

If you feel tired for the whole day after taking Lexapro, discuss with your doctor about the time of the medication. You can take Lexapro at night or before bed (if your doctor approves) to avoid tiredness during the day.

3. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene

There are many side effects of using antidepressants like Lexapro. One of the most common side effects is insomnia.

• Set a Bedtime Routine

Establishing a bedtime routine is crucial. Studies suggest that poor sleep may pose a risk to health issues, and regular sleep is important for mental health.

• Avoid Using the Screen

Avoid using mobile phones, television, computers, or tablets before going to sleep. Socialize with your friends and build communication.

• Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol has a sedative effect and may cause fatigue and drowsiness. Avoid alcohol before bedtime or while taking Lexapro to avoid severe fatigue and drowsiness. 

• Avoid Caffeine

Avoid or limit caffeinated food or drinks before bedtime because they block adenosine (a chemical that helps sleep), and it may affect sleep. 

4. Stay Active

Any physical exercise or activity is better than none, so regular exercise can help boost your mood and emotional well-being.

Physical exercise releases endorphins, a chemical that improves your well-being and may help reduce the risk of depression.

5. Stay Hydrated

Dry mouth is the most common side effect of Lexapro. Drink plenty of water and fluids to avoid dry mouth and dehydration. 

6. Balanced Diet

A balanced and healthy diet can help to combat fatigue and maintain energy levels. According to a study, symptoms of depression may improve with a healthy diet. 

7. When to Seek Help?

If Lexapro fatigue and tiredness persist and symptoms become severe, it is crucial to seek help.

Your doctor may adjust Lexapro dosage or switch antidepressants for depression and anxiety that suit you. Sometimes therapy works better, but only a doctor or healthcare professional can determine whether you need a medication or therapy like PTSD Online Therapy, Anxiety Online Therapy, EMDR Online Therapy, CBD Online Therapy,  etc.

You don’t have to suffer this alone. At Therapy Fleet, qualified mental health professionals are here to guide you about the benefits and side effects of your medication. Get started now.

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Conclusion

Lexapro is a prescription medication used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. Antidepressants may pose potential risks and side effects. Tiredness is the most common side effect of using Lexapro. Side effects usually occur in the early weeks of treatment. Sometimes, tiredness or fatigue may resolve with time until the body fully adjusts to the medication.

If Lexapro causes tiredness or drowsiness and persists for a long period, don’t ignore it. Get online consultation now at Therapy Fleet from the comfort of your home.

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Medical Disclaimer:

At Therapy Fleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to Therapy Fleet’s qualified staff.

Some days will feel heavy, but hold on. The Sun doesn’t apologize for setting, and neither should you for needing time to rise again.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions our therapists mostly received regarding Lexapro and its side effects, such as tiredness and weight gain.

1. Does Lexapro make you gain weight?

Yes, Lexapro (Escitalopram) belongs to a class of drugs, SSRIs, and may cause weight gain in some people if it is used for a long time. A healthy lifestyle and consulting your doctor about the medication may help manage side effects.  

2. Is it normal to sleep a lot on Lexapro?

Yes, it’s normal if you feel drowsy, especially during the early weeks of Lexapro treatment. Drowsiness, fatigue, and tiredness are common side effects of Lexapro, but they are temporary and improve with time.

3. Is it better to take Lexapro in the morning or at night?

Lexapro can be taken at any time (morning or night). Lexapro can be taken at night (after consulting with a healthcare provider) if it makes you feel drowsy. If it’s not, the morning time of the medication may be better. Always consult your doctor before adjusting or scheduling medication dosage.

4. What is the biggest side effect of Lexapro?

The most common side effects are:

• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Sexual dysfunction

The most serious black box warning, but less common, is suicidal thoughts.

Sources

• https://www.fda.gov/media/135185/download
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18922243/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3181894/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3026477/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6473877/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28137247/

Resources

• Zoloft vs Lexapro: Which is more effective?
• Side Effects of Mixing Alcohol and Lexapro
• Is It Safe to Combine Medication for ADHD and Alcohol
• SSRI vs SNRI: How to Get an Online Prescription for Anxiety
• Treatment of MDD with Zoloft and Wellbutrin Together? A Complete Guide
• GAD Online Therapy
• Overcoming Social Anxiety Online Therapy for Confidence and Connection
• Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
• Find Calm in the Storm: Panic Attack Online Therapy
• Healing Trauma from Anywhere PTSD Online Therapy
• A Guide to Wellbutrin Dosage for Depression and Anxiety
• How Long Does Prozac/Fluxotine Take to Work?
• Best Time to Take Lexapro for Anxiety
• How Long Does It Take for Lexapro to Work for Anxiety