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Lexapro is a popular antidepressant medication that can cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, and sexual dysfunction. While Lexapro is not classified as addictive, it can lead to dependence, and withdrawal from it can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Withdrawal symptoms include flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches, chills, and sweating, as well as dizziness, muscle tension, and brain fog. While the exact cause of discontinuation syndrome is unknown, it is believed to be related to a sudden decrease in serotonin levels when stopping an SSRI or SNRI. It is important to note that Lexapro withdrawal will likely not be fatal or life-threatening, but it can cause people to use the drug longer than they should.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Muscle Weakness | Flu-like symptoms such as muscle pain, weakness, and tiredness have been reported. |
| Addiction | Lexapro does not have addictive properties but can lead to dependence. |
| Withdrawal Symptoms | Dizziness, muscle tension, chills, crying, brain fog, tremors, restless legs, unsteady gait, digestive issues, nausea, vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, appetite loss, headaches, fatigue, muscle aches, insomnia, sensory disturbances, increased anxiety, burning or tingling feelings, confusion, irritability, trouble sleeping, unusual tiredness or weakness, and hyponatremia (low sodium in the blood). |
| Risk | Lexapro is classified as having a moderate risk of ADS (Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome). |
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What You'll Learn
Flu-like symptoms: Headache, fatigue, chills, sweating, nausea
Lexapro is a popular antidepressant medication that can cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, and sexual dysfunction. Abruptly stopping or reducing the dosage can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be difficult to deal with both physically and emotionally. Lexapro withdrawal symptoms include flu-like symptoms such as:
Headache
Headaches are a common symptom of Lexapro withdrawal. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate this symptom.
Fatigue
Fatigue is another flu-like symptom that can occur during Lexapro withdrawal. This can be managed by getting plenty of rest and pacing yourself.
Chills
Chills are a common symptom of withdrawal, affecting about 44% of people discontinuing Lexapro. Staying warm and hydrated can help manage this symptom.
Sweating
Sweating may also occur as a result of the body's temperature regulation being affected during withdrawal. Keeping a cool environment and wearing lightweight, breathable clothing can help.
Nausea
Nausea is a common digestive issue that can arise during Lexapro withdrawal. Antiemetics, such as ondansetron (Zofran), can be prescribed to help alleviate this symptom.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional when dealing with Lexapro withdrawal to ensure a safe and gradual reduction of the medication.
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Muscle tension and weakness
Withdrawal from Lexapro can be difficult, both physically and emotionally. Lexapro is a popular antidepressant medication that can cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, and sexual dysfunction. While Lexapro does not have addictive properties, it can still lead to dependence, meaning that the body becomes accustomed to the medication, and stopping it abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal symptoms from Lexapro include muscle tension and weakness. According to a Japanese study, muscle tension and dizziness affected about 44% of people discontinuing Lexapro. Other symptoms include flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches, chills, and sweating, as well as sensory disturbances described as "brain zaps" or electric shock sensations in the head. These mental symptoms can be as challenging as the physical ones.
The presence of withdrawal alone can cause people to use the drug longer than they should. It is important to discuss any concerns about side effects with a healthcare provider and carefully plan dosage reduction to avoid severe side effects. Abruptly stopping or reducing the dose of Lexapro can lead to withdrawal and side effects.
Muscle weakness is also a rare side effect of Lexapro, occurring in 0.1% to 1% of patients. It is important to check with a doctor if you experience muscle weakness while taking Lexapro, as it may be a sign of hyponatremia (low sodium in the blood), which is more common in elderly patients or those with certain risk factors.
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Changes in motor control: Tremors, restless legs, unsteady gait
Lexapro is a commonly used antidepressant medication. While it does not have addictive properties, the sudden discontinuation of the drug may cause withdrawal symptoms. Lexapro withdrawal can be physically and emotionally challenging.
Some of the common symptoms of Lexapro withdrawal are dizziness, muscle tension, chills, crying, and brain fog. Additionally, it can cause digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, cramps, diarrhoea, and appetite loss. Lexapro withdrawal can also lead to flu-like symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, muscle pain, weakness, and tiredness.
One of the notable aspects of Lexapro withdrawal is the changes in motor control. These changes can manifest as tremors, muscle tension, restless legs, an unsteady gait, or difficulty controlling speech and chewing movements.
Tremors are involuntary trembling or shaking movements that can affect various body parts, commonly the hands and arms. Essential tremor, a type of movement disorder, can cause uncontrollable shaking and impact dexterity, speaking, and cognitive function. It can also lead to gait and balance problems, making it challenging to maintain stability while walking.
Restless legs syndrome is another movement disorder that can cause an irresistible urge to move your legs. It often occurs at rest and can lead to unpleasant sensations in the legs, affecting sleep and causing insomnia.
An unsteady gait refers to a person's abnormal walking pattern. It can be characterised by staggered movements, a wide gait, or a stooped posture with reduced arm movement. Gait abnormalities can also be associated with conditions like Parkinson's disease, where slowed movements and stiffness result in a hunched stance and shorter, shuffling strides.
Overall, the changes in motor control during Lexapro withdrawal can be distressing and impact an individual's daily functioning. It is important to seek medical advice and gradually taper off the medication under the supervision of a healthcare professional to minimise the risk and severity of withdrawal symptoms.
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Mental symptoms: Brain fog, crying, sensory disturbances (brain zaps)
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a drug that has long been associated with withdrawal symptoms after its use has been stopped. Lexapro withdrawal can be difficult, both physically and emotionally.
Brain fog
Brain fog is a common symptom of Lexapro withdrawal. It can cause a person to feel like their brain has stopped for a moment and is rebooting like a computer.
Crying
The emotional effects of Lexapro withdrawal can be profound, with crying being a common symptom. It is important to seek help if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings of preoccupation with death, dying, or violence.
Sensory disturbances (brain zaps)
Brain zaps are a mysterious and distressing symptom of Lexapro withdrawal. They are described as feeling like an electrical shock or shiver in the brain, or like a faint 'whoosh' sound in the head. These sensations typically last about one second each and are not believed to be dangerous. Brain zaps can cause anxiety and vertigo, and may be accompanied by insomnia, vision changes, and balance problems.
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Digestive issues: Vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, appetite loss
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). While the drug is often beneficial to those who take it, it can also present challenges when an individual decides to stop.
When it comes to discontinuing Lexapro, the process can be difficult, both physically and emotionally. This is because SSRIs like Lexapro affect serotonin levels, a type of mood-regulating neurotransmitter in the brain. When a person stops taking them, it takes time for the brain to adjust to the absence of the drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms.
One of the common symptoms associated with Lexapro withdrawal is digestive issues, including vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, and appetite loss. These gastrointestinal disturbances can be distressing and interfere with nutrition and overall health.
Vomiting and nausea are frequently reported during Lexapro withdrawal. These symptoms can lead to a decreased appetite and challenges with maintaining proper nutrition. They can also contribute to a drop in energy levels, leaving individuals feeling weak and fatigued.
Cramps and diarrhea are also common digestive issues that may arise during Lexapro withdrawal. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life, impacting an individual's ability to participate in their usual activities. In addition to physical discomfort, digestive issues can cause embarrassment and social anxiety, further affecting an individual's overall well-being.
Appetite loss is another symptom associated with Lexapro withdrawal. This can result from the medication's impact on serotonin levels, which affect the brain's perception of hunger and fullness. Appetite loss can lead to unintended weight loss and nutritional deficiencies if not managed properly. It is important for individuals experiencing appetite loss to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs.
To minimize the impact of Lexapro withdrawal, it is crucial to slowly taper off the medication under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Abruptly stopping the medication can increase the likelihood of severe withdrawal symptoms. By gradually reducing the dosage, individuals can give their bodies time to adjust and reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms.
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Frequently asked questions
Lexapro is a popular antidepressant medication. While it is not classified as addictive, it can lead to dependence, meaning that stopping it abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Common side effects of Lexapro withdrawal include dizziness, muscle tension, chills, crying, brain fog, headaches, fatigue, muscle aches, nausea, and flu-like symptoms.
Yes, Lexapro withdrawal can cause muscle weakness. It can also lead to hyponatremia (low sodium in the blood), which can result in confusion, headache, memory problems, trouble concentrating, and unsteadiness.
It is important to discuss any concerns about side effects with a healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping or reducing your dose of Lexapro can lead to withdrawal. Your doctor may recommend gradually reducing your dosage over time to minimise withdrawal symptoms.
