Lexapro Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, and Treatment

Lexapro, known generically as escitalopram, is a commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat anxiety and depression.

While it’s effective for many, discontinuing Lexapro can lead to withdrawal symptoms, a condition known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. By knowing the symptoms, timeline, and strategies for managing Lexapro withdrawal, you can ensure your safety and seek help when you need it.

Symptoms of Lexapro Withdrawal

Withdrawal from Lexapro, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), can lead to a variety of physical and psychological symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and often depend on the dosage and duration of use:

Physical Symptoms

1. Dizziness and Headaches: Commonly described as "brain zaps," these sensations feel like electric shocks in the brain. They can be startling and uncomfortable but usually diminish over time.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are frequently reported. These symptoms occur as the body adjusts to the absence of the medication, which previously regulated serotonin levels affecting the digestive system​​​​.

3. Flu-like Symptoms: These include excessive sweating, chills, body aches, and fatigue. Such symptoms mimic those of the flu and can be particularly debilitating, often impacting daily functioning and overall well-being​​​​.

4. Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, vivid dreams, and nightmares are common. Disrupted sleep patterns can exacerbate other withdrawal symptoms and lead to increased irritability and exhaustion during the day​​​​.

Psychological Symptoms

1. Anxiety and Depression: A return or worsening of anxiety and depressive symptoms is possible. As Lexapro is used to manage these conditions, withdrawal can cause these symptoms to resurface or intensify, making the withdrawal process more challenging​​​​.

2. Mood Swings: Irritability and mood fluctuations may occur. Withdrawal can lead to sudden and unpredictable changes in mood, making emotional regulation difficult​​.

3. Cognitive Issues: Difficulty concentrating, confusion, and memory problems are common. These cognitive disturbances can affect work, studies, and daily activities, further complicating the withdrawal experience​​​​.

These symptoms arise because the body has become accustomed to the presence of Lexapro and its effects on serotonin levels. When the medication is reduced or stopped, the body needs time to readjust, leading to these withdrawal symptoms. Managing these symptoms often requires a gradual tapering of the medication under medical supervision, combined with supportive care and healthy lifestyle practices​​​​.

Timeline of Withdrawal Symptoms

Knowing the timeline of withdrawal symptoms is crucial for managing expectations and planning an appropriate strategy for discontinuation. The onset, peak, and resolution of symptoms can vary greatly among individuals, influenced by several factors.

Onset of Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within one to three days after the last dose of Lexapro. This rapid onset occurs because Lexapro has a half-life of about 27 to 32 hours, meaning the drug levels in the bloodstream decrease significantly within a day or two​​​​. Early symptoms often include dizziness, headaches, and mild gastrointestinal issues, as the body starts adjusting to the absence of the medication.

Peak of Symptoms

The intensity of withdrawal symptoms usually peaks around the fifth day after discontinuation. During this period, individuals may experience the most severe physical and psychological symptoms, such as "brain zaps," severe nausea, heightened anxiety, and pronounced mood swings​​​​. This peak phase can be particularly challenging, and it is essential to have support systems and coping strategies in place.

Duration of Symptoms

The duration of withdrawal symptoms can vary based on the dosage, duration of use, and individual physiology. For most people, the acute phase of withdrawal resolves within a few weeks. However, some symptoms, particularly psychological ones like anxiety and depression, may persist for several months​​​​. These prolonged symptoms are sometimes referred to as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).

Factors Influencing Withdrawal Duration

Several factors can influence the duration and severity of withdrawal symptoms:

• Dosage: Higher doses of Lexapro are associated with more severe withdrawal symptoms.

• Duration of Use: Long-term users of Lexapro may experience more prolonged withdrawal symptoms.

• Individual Physiology: Genetic factors, overall health, and co-existing medical conditions can affect how quickly one recovers from withdrawal​​​​.

• Tapering Method: Gradual tapering of the medication, under medical supervision, can significantly reduce the severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms compared to abrupt discontinuation​​​​.

Managing Lexapro Withdrawal

Managing Lexapro withdrawal effectively requires a multifaceted approach that includes medical supervision, gradual tapering, and supportive care. This combination can help mitigate the severity of withdrawal symptoms and support overall well-being during the transition period.

Tapering

One of the most critical aspects of managing Lexapro withdrawal is gradually reducing the dosage under medical supervision. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, so a tapering schedule tailored to the individual's needs is essential. This schedule should consider factors such as the current dosage, duration of use, and individual response to dose reductions​​​​.

A typical tapering strategy might involve reducing the dose by small increments every few weeks. For example, if a person is taking 20 mg of Lexapro daily, the doctor might reduce the dose to 15 mg for a few weeks, then to 10 mg, and so on, until the medication is safely discontinued​​​​. Regular check-ins with the healthcare provider are crucial to monitor progress and adjust the tapering plan as needed.

A Healthy Lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly ease withdrawal symptoms. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients, engaging in regular physical exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep. Exercise, in particular, can boost mood and energy levels, helping to counteract some of the depressive symptoms that might re-emerge during withdrawal​​​​.

Additionally, avoiding stimulants like caffeine and reducing screen time before bed can improve sleep quality. Good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a restful sleep environment, can also help manage insomnia and other sleep disturbances commonly experienced during withdrawal​​​​.

Emotional Support

Emotional support from friends, family, or support groups can provide a vital buffer against the psychological challenges of withdrawal. Open communication about the process and its difficulties can foster understanding and patience from those around you. Support groups, both in-person and online, can connect you with others who are experiencing similar challenges, offering a sense of community and shared experience​​.

Therapy

Psychotherapy can be an invaluable tool during withdrawal. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, can help address underlying mental health issues and provide strategies for coping with withdrawal symptoms. Therapists can offer personalized support and techniques to manage anxiety, depression, and other emotional symptoms that may resurface during this period​​.

Medications

In some cases, additional medications may be prescribed to alleviate specific withdrawal symptoms. For instance, antihistamines can help manage dizziness, sedatives may be used for insomnia, and mild pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can address aches and pains. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medications to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your situation​​​​.

Lexapro Withdrawal Overwhelming You? The Forge Recovery Center Can Help

Navigating Lexapro withdrawal can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. By understanding the symptoms, following a gradual tapering plan, and leveraging supportive care, you can manage the transition more smoothly.

If you require professional support, The Forge Recovery Center is here to provide the comprehensive care you need to get through Lexapro withdrawal safely and soundly. Our personalized treatment plans are designed to help you overcome withdrawal symptoms and address underlying mental health conditions.

Reach out to us today to start your journey towards recovery and regain control of your life.

Written by

The Forge Recovery Center

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

February 28, 2025