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Lexapro doesn’t bring instant effects because it takes a while for the medication to build up in your system. So, how long does it take for Lexapro to work? Keep reading as we define how long it may take and why Lexapro may take longer than expected to start working.
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Signs Showing Lexapro Is Working
According to
When Lexapro starts working, you can feel a sense of gradual relief from your symptoms. These include a more positive mood, reduced sadness, decreased pessimistic and suicidal thoughts, improved sleep quality, enhanced concentration, and more. It may take a while for you to get used to the new mental state as serotonin gets released in the brain.
How Long Does it Take for Lexapro to Impact Different Symptoms and Conditions?
Lexapro can be a part of a treatment plan for depression and anxiety disorders, promoting better concentration and overall cognitive performance. The time it takes for Lexapro to impart its therapeutic effects may vary across different mental conditions:
- Anxiety: Lexapro typically takes about two to four weeks to address anxiety symptoms.
- Depression: improvements in appetite, energy, and sleep patterns can often be observed within the
first or second week [3*] of treatment. - Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): Lexapro is occasionally prescribed for OCD.
Studies [4*] show that its impact on OCD symptoms may become evident around the fourth week. - Panic disorder:
studies [5*] suggest significant symptom improvement for panic disorder from the fourth week of Lexapro treatment. It focuses on reducing excessive anxiety, a key factor in panic attacks.
Note that these time spans may differ from person to person. Consult your healthcare provider if you think your treatment plan should be modified.
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How Long Does It Take for Lexapro to Show Peak Therapeutic Efficacy?
Like any other antidepressant, Lexapro takes time to achieve its complete therapeutic efficacy due to its action on a molecular level in the brain. This involves intricate processes that need time to unfold and stabilize. Therefore, individuals are advised to remain patient and adhere consistently to their prescribed medication regimen, in order to attain the intended therapeutic outcomes. It may take about 6-8 weeks to get the full benefits of a Lexapro treatment.
In addition, there are other factors why Lexapro might work faster or slower than usual. Possible reasons revolve around:
- Individual body chemistry.
- Other related medical conditions.
- Drug interactions.
Always consult with your healthcare provider on pre-existing conditions to get appropriate answers and treatments.
Side Effects of Lexapro
Take time to learn about the long-term and short-term implications of taking escitalopram. It will help you monitor your state and see a healthcare provider if any concerns occur.
Lexapro, like any medication, can lead to side effects, but these effects are not universal, and their severity also varies between individuals. Patients most commonly complain of:
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Nervousness
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Excess sweating
- Restlessness
The symptoms usually improve within the first or second week. However, if they do not subside or if you experience severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Lexapro can be effective in managing anxiety and depression. Since its effects are not immediate, and it may cause side effects, it is important to follow the given instructions and be in touch with your prescriber.
At MEDvidi, you can get a personalized treatment plan for depression or anxiety online. A qualified healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and health history and offer treatment tailored to your circumstances.