Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram. It belongs to a class of drugs called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). While it is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that helps many people, everyone reacts to it differently. So, is Lexapro an addictive drug? Northstar Recovery Center provides evidence-based addiction and mental health treatment in Massachusetts. We take a customized, person-centered approach to treatment and are here to help you find long-term solutions that fit your needs.
Summary: While Lexapro isn’t an addictive drug, it can be very difficult to get off. Having help during the withdrawal process can be vital.
Is Lexapro an Addictive Drug?
Lexapro is not an addictive drug. It does not get you high, is not typically abused, and does not cause drug-seeking behavior. However, it can cause physical dependence in the sense that your body adjusts to the medication when you take it on an ongoing basis. As a result, many people experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to get off Lexapro. This is called antidepressant withdrawal syndrome. Often, these symptoms are what cause confusion for those who wonder, “Is Lexapro an addictive drug?”
Possible Lexapro withdrawal symptoms include:
- “Brain zaps” (electric shock-like sensations).
- Gastrointestinal effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain).
- Vertigo, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
- Vivid dreams or nightmares.
- Flu-like symptoms.
- Appetite changes.
- Insomnia.
- Changes in mood.
- Tearfulness.
- Irritability.
- Anxiety.
- Headaches.
- Sweating.
- Chills.
For this reason, tapering off Lexapro gradually is important. It can reduce withdrawal symptoms. Getting off Lexapro on your own is not recommended. Always taper off antidepressant medications with the assistance of a healthcare professional.
How Northstar Recovery Center Can Help
As for how Northstar Recovery Center can help, we provide outpatient Mental Health Treatment In Massachusetts. We can help you taper off of Lexapro safely if needed. A variety of programs are available at our center, including both online and in-person options.
Depression Treatment Centers In Massachusetts
Lexapro is approved to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). When you get off Lexapro, it’s very important that you take care of your mental health. Some people find that therapy alone is enough to treat their depression–it can even help to the extent that a person no longer meets criteria for a depressive disorder in some instances. In other cases, a combination of medication and therapy is best. We can help you find the right approach to care for you, which can include safe, trauma-informed trial and error of medication if needed.
With locations in Southborough and West Springfield, our depression treatment centers in Massachusetts provide evidence-based therapy. Examples of treatments that may be used include, but aren’t limited to:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy.
- Acceptance and commitment therapy.
- Mindfulness-based interventions.
Our mental health intensive outpatient program (IOP) for depression consists of group therapy and individual therapy sessions. Like the medication management process, other aspects of your care will be tailored to fit your unique needs at Northstar.
Anxiety Treatment In Massachusetts
In addition to depression, Lexapro is approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It’s also sometimes prescribed off-label for related disorders. Getting anxiety treatment in Massachusetts at Northstar Recovery Center helps people find a new sense of calm in their lives, with the tools they need to manage anxiety symptoms more effectively. We use evidence-based therapies for anxiety, such as:
- Dialectical behavior therapy.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy.
- Acceptance and commitment therapy.
Since anxiety symptoms can worsen when you get off Lexapro, anxiety treatment can be particularly crucial during this time. Similar to those living with depression, some people with anxiety disorders benefit from therapy alone, whereas a combination of medication and therapy is best for others.
Integrated Treatment
Mental disorders like depression and anxiety often co-occur with other concerns. For example, substance use disorders, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, or grief. We use an integrated treatment model that addresses the full spectrum of your mental health and addiction treatment needs simultaneously. If you have any questions about who we are or how we can help, contact Northstar Recovery Center online or over the phone today.
Call Northstar Recovery Center for Mental Health and Addiction Treatment in MA
Northstar is a trusted, trauma-informed provider of mental health and addiction treatment in Massachusetts. We have psychiatric nurse practitioners on staff who are available for medication management. This makes it possible for our centers to help people taper off of medications like Lexapro or find the right medication(s) for their needs while getting comprehensive therapy through our programs. To talk with a team member, call Northstar Recovery Center for mental health and addiction treatment in MA at (833) 853-8153.
FAQs
How severe are Lexapro withdrawals?
Lexapro withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe. Often, they are mild. Lexapro withdrawal can be more severe for some people, such as those who take a high dose for a long time or stop the drug abruptly. Tapering under the guidance of a professional can help prevent severe symptoms.
What are the possible side effects of Lexapro?
Some of the most common side effects of Lexapro include:
- Dry mouth.
- Weight gain.
- Flu-like symptoms.
- Feeling nervous or restless.
- Gastrointestinal effects (e.g., diarrhea, nausea).
- Sexual problems.
- Increased sweating.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Drowsiness.
- Dizziness.
- Headaches.
Everyone reacts to Lexapro differently. For some people, there are few to no side effects, or the side effects experienced in the first couple of weeks go away over time. However, rare but serious side effects are seen in some instances. For example, low blood sodium, severe allergic reactions, and serotonin syndrome.
What’s the safest way to stop taking Lexapro?
The safest way to stop taking Lexapro is to taper gradually under the guidance of a healthcare professional. They will help you lower your dose slowly over the course of weeks or months.
How long does it take to get off Lexapro?
How long it takes to get off Lexapro depends on factors like withdrawal symptoms and your starting dose. People who have taken Lexapro for longer may require a slower tapering schedule.
Does Lexapro have drug interactions?
Yes. Like most medications, Lexapro can interact with other drugs, as well as some over-the-counter supplements. Your prescriber should tell you what to avoid and ask about any other medications you take when they start you on Lexapro.
Resources
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/25218-antidepressant-discontinuation-syndrome
