How to Take Lexapro: Side Effects, Dosage
Lexapro (escitalopram) dosing instructions, common side effects, Black Box Warning on suicidality, and when to contact your prescriber. Based on FDA-approved prescribing information.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
Support for Your Daily Wellness
We’re here to help you stay organized, informed, and in control of your routine.
Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Lexapro
How to Take Lexapro
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, the following guidance applies to taking Lexapro (escitalopram).
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, typical adult starting dose: 10 mg once daily. If needed, a clinician may increase to 20 mg daily after at least one week.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, how to take it: swallow the tablet whole with water. May be taken with or without food.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, best time of day: take it at the same time each day, as directed by your clinician.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, for adolescents (12–17 yrs): usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily. A healthcare professional may increase to 20 mg daily if needed.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose: take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose — do not double up.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if using the liquid solution: measure the dose carefully with a medication syringe or marked cup (typical adult dose 10 mg = 5 mL).
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, keep consistency: take it every day, even when feeling well, to maintain steady levels.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, when stopping: do not stop suddenly. Your clinician will guide a gradual taper.
Warnings Before Taking Lexapro
BLACK BOX WARNING: Per FDA-approved prescribing information, antidepressants, including escitalopram, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients (under age 25). Monitor patients closely for worsening depression, suicidal ideation, or unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial months of therapy or after dose changes. Report any concerning changes to the prescriber immediately.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: tell your doctor about bipolar disorder, seizures, or bleeding issues before starting Lexapro.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: share all medicines to avoid interactions, especially with MAOIs or blood thinners.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with your clinician.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: avoid alcohol if it affects alertness.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: report any history of glaucoma or low sodium to your prescriber.
Lexapro Side Effects
Common
Moderate
Nausea
BLACK BOX WARNING: Per FDA-approved prescribing information, escitalopram increases the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in patients under age 25. Monitor for new or worsening depression, suicidal ideation, or behavioral changes and report to your prescriber immediately.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, nausea is one of the most commonly reported early effects of escitalopram.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
2–6 hours
Common
Mild
Headache
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, mild, temporary headaches are reported with escitalopram use.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
2–12 hours
Common
Mild
Dry Mouth
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, dry mouth is a reported side effect of escitalopram.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
1–4 hours
Occasional
Mild
Digestive Changes
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, loose stools or mild stomach upset may occur with escitalopram.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
2–8 hours
Occasional
Moderate
Sleep Changes
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, Lexapro may cause either drowsiness or insomnia. Discuss dosing timing with your prescriber if sleep is affected.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
4–12 hours
Common
Moderate
Sexual Side Effects
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, escitalopram may cause reduced libido or delayed orgasm. Discuss any concerns with your prescriber.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
Several hours to a day
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Lexapro
What If You Forgot to Take Lexapro?
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose:
If you remember within a few hours, take the missed dose.
If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your usual schedule.
Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
If missed doses are frequent, consult your prescribing clinician or pharmacist for guidance.
What If You Took Too Much Lexapro
What If You Took Too Much Lexapro (Accidentally)?
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately for guidance on next steps.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, escitalopram overdose may cause seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, severe agitation, dizziness, tremor, nausea, or serotonin syndrome symptoms. If symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
How Much Does Lexapro Cost
Lexapro Cost With Insurance
With most U.S. insurance plans, generic escitalopram is typically covered at a low formulary tier. Copay amounts vary by plan, pharmacy, and tier placement. Pricing information is not a guarantee of cost; contact your insurer or pharmacy for current pricing.
How Much Does Lexapro Cost without Insurance
Cost of Lexapro Without Insurance
Generic escitalopram is available at many pharmacies at significantly lower cost than brand-name Lexapro. Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, and quantity. Use a pharmacy discount program or ask your pharmacist for available pricing options. Pricing information is not a guarantee of cost; contact your pharmacy for current out-of-pocket pricing.
Resources:
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021323s047lbl.pdf
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603005.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/escitalopram-oral-route/description/drg-20063707
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/escitalopram/
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/depression-medicines-make-sure-you-get-right-one
