Lexapro is a very helpful medication for those who need it, but it’s important to understand how it works. If you want to take Lexapro for anxiety relief, read on.
What Is Lexapro?
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a prescription drug meant to treat clinical depression and anxiety. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by increasing the amount of serotonin—a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation—in the brain.
This medication is typically taken once daily, with or without food, and may take several weeks to show its full effects. Lexapro is known for generally mild side effects, but some people may experience nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, or other symptoms.
It’s also important to avoid stopping Lexapro abruptly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Instead, tapering down the dose under a doctor’s supervision is often recommended if someone needs to discontinue it.
By boosting serotonin, Lexapro can help improve mood, reduce anxiety, and stabilize a person’s emotions.
Who Can Prescribe Lexapro?
Lexapro is a prescription medication, so to obtain it, you need to reach out to a licensed healthcare provider.
These include people like:
- General Practitioners – Often the first point of contact, they can prescribe Lexapro if they determine it’s appropriate, especially for common cases of depression and anxiety.
- Psychiatrists – These are specialists in mental health who can diagnose and treat more complex psychiatric conditions. Psychiatrists often manage Lexapro prescriptions, especially for individuals who need specialized mental health care.
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs) – In many regions, NPs and PAs can prescribe medications, including Lexapro, after evaluating a patient’s needs.
These professionals can provide expert guidance and monitoring to ensure Lexapro is used to its maximum effectiveness.
How Does Lexapro Work for Anxiety?
Lexapro helps alleviate anxiety by boosting serotonin levels in the brain. It does this by blocking the reuptake of serotonin into the neurons. Normally, the brain reabsorbs neurotransmitters in an effort to keep levels balanced. But sometimes, this process can go awry – for example, the brains of those with ADHD reuptake (reabsorb) dopamine to an excessive degree, which leads to their symptoms. Likewise, those with depression often struggle with it because their brains are too overzealous in reabsorbing serotonin.
Unlike drugs like Adderall for ADHD, however, Lexapro doesn’t provide immediate relief. It builds up in the bloodstream, meaning people with anxiety often start to feel a decrease in symptoms after a few weeks of consistent use, with maximum benefits typically appearing within 6-8 weeks.
Once it’s built up sufficient levels in the blood, Lexapro can help reduce some physical symptoms associated with anxiety, such as restlessness, muscle tension, and even some sleep disturbances, as anxiety and sleep are closely linked.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is simply a feeling of unease. It’s the body’s “fight or flight” response – an urge to either handle a situation or hide from it.
This feeling is normal and happens to everyone – what’s not normal is if it is happening all the time. At that point, when the anxiety interferes with daily life, this may be a sign of a clinical anxiety disorder.
Here are some statistics on anxiety:
- Anxiety affects 19.1% of American adults each year, making it the most common mental health disorder in the United States.
- Approximately 6% of the global population is affected by anxiety disorders, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), making it a major public health concern worldwide.
- Nearly 37% of people suffering from anxiety don’t seek treatment, primarily due to the stigma, lack of access to care, or lack of awareness that help is possible.
- Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, with options ranging from medication and therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or CBT) to lifestyle changes and self-help strategies. Around 60-85% of individuals with anxiety benefit from treatment.
Chronic anxiety affects quality of life, relationships, work performance, and physical health. Untreated anxiety can lead to more severe mental health issues, including depression, substance abuse, and a reduced lifespan due to the cumulative effects on physical health.
Common Medications for Anxiety Treatment
SSRIs like Lexapro are considered first-line treatment for clinical anxiety, meaning they’re seen as the medical gold standard.
SSRIs
Aside from Lexapro, here are some common SSRIs for anxiety:
- Zoloft (Sertraline) – Effective for a wide range of anxiety disorders, including PTSD and OCD, Zoloft is widely prescribed and well-researched.
- Paxil (Paroxetine) – Used for GAD, social anxiety, and panic disorder, Paxil may have stronger side effects, which some patients tolerate well.
- Prozac (Fluoxetine) – Known for treating both depression and anxiety, it is commonly prescribed for panic disorder and OCD.
- Celexa (Citalopram) – Primarily used for depression, Celexa is sometimes prescribed off-label for anxiety due to its calming effects.
SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin, allowing more of it to be available and thus increase the feeling of well-being it provides.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are often prescribed for short-term or acute anxiety relief, particularly when a person experiences intense or disabling anxiety. They provide fast relief but are typically used on a short-term basis due to how addictive they can be.
Common benzodiazepines for anxiety include:
- Xanax (Alprazolam) – Known for its quick relief, Xanax is effective for panic attacks and severe anxiety episodes.
- Ativan (Lorazepam) – Often prescribed for acute anxiety and agitation, Ativan has a somewhat longer-lasting effect.
- Klonopin (Clonazepam) – Useful for both anxiety and panic disorder, Klonopin has a longer duration of action, which allows it to be taken less frequently.
- Valium (Diazepam) – Commonly used for acute anxiety, Valium also has muscle-relaxant properties.
Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that calms the nervous system, leading to rapid relaxation and a reduction in anxiety symptoms.
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Call 866-881-1184How Long Does Lexapro Take to Work for Anxiety?
Lexapro typically takes some time to start working for anxiety, and the full effect may not be felt immediately.
Here’s a breakdown of how long it usually takes to see results and what to expect:
- One to Two Weeks – Subtle changes in anxiety symptoms, such as improved sleep, slightly better mood, and reduced physical symptoms like muscle tension
- Four to Six Weeks – Noticeable reduction of anxiety due to greatly improved serotonin levels.
- Six to Eight Weeks or Longer – This is when Lexapro typically reaches full strength.
While waiting for Lexapro to take effect, some people find relief through other coping mechanisms, such as therapy, lifestyle changes (like regular exercise and sleep improvements), and relaxation techniques. In certain cases, a doctor may prescribe a short-term medication like a benzodiazepine to provide immediate relief while Lexapro takes full effect.
Ultimately, patience is key with Lexapro. Regular check-ins with a healthcare provider during the first few months are also important, as they can help adjust the dose or address side effects if needed.
Potential Side Effects of Lexapro for Anxiety
While Lexapro is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects. These side effects may vary in intensity and duration among individuals.
Here are some common potential side effects associated with Lexapro:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Sleep Disturbances
- Dry Mouth
- Dizziness
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Weight Changes
Less common side effects include:
- Increased Anxiety: In some cases, anxiety symptoms may temporarily worsen when first starting Lexapro.
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Yawning
There are also some rare but potentially serious side effects that can occur from Lexapro:
- Serotonin Syndrome: A potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonin in the brain. Symptoms include confusion, rapid heart rate, severe muscle rigidity, and high fever. It usually occurs when combined with other medications that also increase serotonin levels.
- Suicidal Thoughts: Particularly in younger individuals (under 25), SSRIs like Lexapro may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially when starting the medication or adjusting dosages.
Additionally, some individuals may have an allergic reaction, which could manifest as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
While many individuals tolerate Lexapro well, it’s essential to discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider, especially if they are severe or persistent. It’s also crucial to weigh the benefits of anxiety relief against potential side effects when considering this medication.
Benefits of Taking Lexapro for Anxiety
There are a lot of benefits to taking Lexapro for anxiety.
Some key benefits include:
- Reduced anxiety
- More functional in daily life
- Favorable side effect profile compared to other SSRIs
- Reduction of physical symptoms
- Convenience – widely available and can be taken once daily
While Lexapro can provide significant benefits for individuals struggling with anxiety, it’s essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Regular monitoring and communication can help maximize the benefits while minimizing any potential side effects.
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Check Your CoverageOptions for Anxiety Treatment
When it comes to treating anxiety, there are various approaches that can be effective depending on the individual’s needs and preferences.
Here’s an overview of three primary options: psychotherapies, holistic treatments, and psychiatric medication management.
Psychotherapies
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or just “therapy,” involves working with a trained mental health professional to address the roots of anxiety.
Some common therapies for anxiety include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. CBT often includes exposure therapy, where individuals gradually face their fears in a controlled way.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Originally developed for borderline personality disorder, DBT is effective for anxiety by teaching skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fight against them, promoting psychological flexibility and commitment to behavioral changes aligned with personal values.
Therapy for anxiety can be very helpful, offering effective, long-term tools to manage it by addressing its root causes and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. They also can often be combined with other treatments like Lexapro to maximize relief.
Holistic Treatment
Holistic treatments for anxiety focus on the whole person and may include a combination of physical, emotional, and spiritual practices.
Some common holistic approaches include:
- Meditation: Meditation techniques can help individuals manage anxiety by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and enhancing self-awareness.
- Mindfulness and Breathwork: Mindfulness and breathwork involve paying attention to the present moment with acceptance and without judgment. Practices such as mindful breathing and body awareness exercises can reduce anxiety by helping individuals become less reactive to stress.
- Sound Healing: Sound healing uses vibrations from instruments like singing bowls, gongs, and tuning forks to create soothing sounds that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
- Nutrition Counseling: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, omega-3 fatty acids, and certain vitamins can positively impact mental health. Nutrition counseling can help people do this.
Holistic approaches support mental well-being through lifestyle changes that improve overall health, such as mindfulness, exercise, and diet adjustments. While these treatments may not eliminate anxiety entirely, they can significantly reduce symptoms and enhance quality of life.
Psychiatric Medication Management
For some individuals, psychiatric medications may be necessary to manage anxiety symptoms. These medications can be prescribed alone or in conjunction with therapy. Professional monitoring is used to make sure they are taken as prescribed.
Professional medication management can be an essential part of anxiety treatment, especially for severe symptoms. It provides symptom relief, often more quickly than other methods, and can be effective as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with therapy for a well-rounded approach.
Find Anxiety Treatment Near Me
If you or a loved one are seeking treatment for addiction, South Coast Behavioral Health is here to help. The first step in treating addiction is a medical detox. This means using drugs to manage withdrawal symptoms.
Our medical detox program in California is staffed by caring and compassionate professionals who can provide you with medications to manage your withdrawal symptoms.
At South Coast, we take pride in offering care that is closely tailored to specific issues. To that end, we offer gender-specific detox programs, with medical detox for men in Irvine, CA, and medical detox for women in Huntington Beach, CA.
After detoxing, proper treatment can begin.
Treatment for substance abuse takes place along an entire spectrum of care. Along that entire spectrum are various behavioral therapies, support groups, and the use of medically-assisted treatment (MAT).
These levels of treatment are, in order, as follows:
Residential Treatment in California
After successfully completing medical detox, you’ll receive inpatient treatment in Orange County, California. There, you’ll receive medically-assisted treatment and dual diagnosis treatment to deal with any cravings or co-occurring mental health issues you may be battling.
We also offer residential treatment facilities in Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Huntington Beach for those who desire gender-specific treatment. There, patients get round-the-clock medical attention and monitoring while living at the institution full-time.
In addition to individual and group counseling and medication management, you’ll also have access to leisure activities and family support services.
Partial Hospitalization in California
Most clients start substance abuse treatment with South Coast in our residential treatment program. After completing that, many desire something that still provides structure and support but with extra space and time to oneself. For that, we offer Partial Hospitalization in Newport Beach.
A step down from inpatient care but with more structure than conventional outpatient programs, partial hospitalization offers a good balance for those looking to ease back into normal life. Clients can receive care five to seven days a week for a number of hours each day, returning back to their homes in the evening.
This way, they can recover without putting their daily lives completely on hold, receiving intense therapeutic interventions like group and individual therapy, skill development, and medication management as necessary.
Intensive Outpatient Treatment in California
For those leaving inpatient residential treatment or partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient programs (IOP) are yet another gradual step forward on the road to recovery.
With a focus on group therapy, individual counseling, and education, clients undergoing Intensive Outpatient Treatment in Newport Beach can meet three to five days a week. Each session lasts three hours.
This level of care requires the least amount of attendance at a facility.
Start Today
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction but wonder how long addiction treatment takes or have other questions, call us at 866-881-1184 or contact us here. Our highly qualified staff will be happy to help give you an idea of what to expect from your addiction recovery timeline, help verify your insurance, and assist with any other questions you may have.
