If you want to taper off the Lexapro and you are not sure where to start, you can click here and read the bestselling book, How to Get Off Psychoactive Drugs Safely or send Jim Harper an email at [email protected] and he will guide you through the process of Lexapro withdrawal.
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Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. While it can be an effective medication for many people, it also comes with a number of potential side effects. In this article, we will discuss the various side effects of Lexapro in detail, including both common and rare side effects.
1. Nausea and Vomiting One of the most common side effects of Lexapro is nausea and vomiting. This may occur in the first few weeks of taking the medication and usually subsides over time. It is important to take Lexapro with food to help reduce the likelihood of experiencing these side effects.
2. Headaches Another common side effect of Lexapro is headaches. These can be mild to severe and may occur in the first few weeks of taking the medication. If headaches persist, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider.
3. Insomnia Lexapro can also cause insomnia, or difficulty sleeping. This can be especially troublesome for those who already have trouble sleeping. If you experience insomnia while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider about possible solutions.
4. Drowsiness On the other hand, some people may experience drowsiness while taking Lexapro. This can be a desirable side effect for those who have trouble falling asleep, but it can also affect the ability to perform daily activities. If drowsiness persists, talk to your healthcare provider.
5. Sexual Side Effects Lexapro can also cause sexual side effects, such as decreased libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, and erectile dysfunction. These side effects can be especially troublesome for those who are already struggling with sexual dysfunction. Talk to your healthcare provider about possible solutions if you experience sexual side effects while taking Lexapro.
6. Weight Gain Another potential side effect of Lexapro is weight gain. This is thought to be due to the medication’s effect on the appetite and metabolism. If you experience significant weight gain while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider about possible solutions.
7. Dry Mouth Lexapro can also cause dry mouth, which can be uncomfortable and lead to dental problems if left untreated. Drinking plenty of water and using sugar-free gum or candy can help alleviate this side effect.
8. Sweating Some people may experience excessive sweating while taking Lexapro. This can be especially troublesome in social situations. If sweating becomes a problem, talk to your healthcare provider about possible solutions.
9. Tremors In rare cases, Lexapro can cause tremors or shaking. This can be a sign of a serious side effect and should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.
10. Suicidal Thoughts While rare, Lexapro has been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in children and young adults. It is important to be aware of this risk and seek help immediately if you or a loved one experiences any thoughts of self-harm while taking Lexapro.
11. Serotonin Syndrome In rare cases, taking Lexapro can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, fever, sweating, and muscle rigidity. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
12. Bleeding Problems Some people may experience bleeding problems while taking Lexapro. This can include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and easy bruising. If you experience any bleeding problems while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
13. Hyponatremia, or low sodium levels in the blood, is another potential side effect of Lexapro. Symptoms of hyponatremia include headache, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro.
14. Dizziness and Lightheadedness Lexapro can also cause dizziness and lightheadedness, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position. This is due to a drop in blood pressure and can be especially troublesome for those who already have low blood pressure. If dizziness and lightheadedness persist, talk to your healthcare provider.
15. Mania or Hypomania In rare cases, Lexapro can cause mania or hypomania, especially in those with bipolar disorder. Symptoms of mania or hypomania include elevated mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, and impulsive behavior. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider immediately.
16. Seizures are a rare but serious side effect of Lexapro. If you have a history of seizures, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking Lexapro. If you experience a seizure while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
17. Liver Damage In rare cases, Lexapro can cause liver damage. Symptoms of liver damage include abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
18. Allergic Reactions Some people may be allergic to Lexapro or its ingredients. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
19. Withdrawal Symptoms If Lexapro is stopped suddenly, withdrawal symptoms can occur. These can include flu-like symptoms, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping Lexapro, and to follow their instructions for tapering off the medication.
20. Cognitive Impairment In rare cases, Lexapro can cause cognitive impairment, including memory loss and confusion. If you experience any cognitive impairment while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider immediately.
21. Stomach Problems Lexapro can cause stomach problems such as diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, talk to your healthcare provider.
22. Respiratory Problems In rare cases, Lexapro can cause respiratory problems such as difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. This is a serious side effect and requires immediate medical attention.
23. Skin Reactions Lexapro can cause skin reactions such as rash, itching, and hives. In rare cases, it can also cause a severe allergic reaction called Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which can be life-threatening. If you experience any skin reactions while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
24. Muscle Pain Lexapro can cause muscle pain or stiffness, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back. This is usually mild and goes away on its own. However, if it persists or worsens, talk to your healthcare provider.
25. Vision Changes In rare cases, Lexapro can cause vision changes such as blurred vision, double vision, or eye pain. If you experience any vision changes while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
26. Low Blood Sodium Lexapro can cause low blood sodium levels, especially in older adults. Symptoms of low blood sodium include headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
27. Increased Risk of Bleeding Lexapro can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people who take blood-thinning medications or have a bleeding disorder. If you experience any unusual bleeding while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
28. Increased Risk of Bone Fractures In some studies, long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro has been associated with an increased risk of bone fractures, especially in older adults. If you have concerns about your risk of bone fractures while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
29. Decreased Platelet Function Lexapro can also decrease platelet function, which can increase the risk of bleeding. This is usually mild and goes away on its own, but if you have concerns, talk to your healthcare provider.
30. Interactions with Other Medications Lexapro can interact with other medications, including other antidepressants, blood thinners, and certain pain medications. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements, before starting Lexapro.
31. Increased Risk of Serotonin Syndrome with Other Drugs Taking Lexapro with other medications that increase serotonin levels, such as some pain medications and herbal supplements, can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, fever, sweating, and muscle rigidity. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro with other medications, seek medical attention immediately.
32. Increased Risk of Mania with Other Drugs Taking Lexapro with other medications that can cause mania, such as some antidepressants and stimulants, can increase the risk of mania or hypomania. Symptoms of mania or hypomania include elevated mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, and impulsive behavior. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro with other medications, talk to your healthcare provider immediately.
33. Increased Risk of Suicide in Children and Adolescents Studies have shown that children and adolescents taking Lexapro may have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. It is important to closely monitor children and adolescents taking Lexapro and to report any changes in behavior or mood to their healthcare provider.
34. Teratogenicity There is some evidence to suggest that taking Lexapro during pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects, particularly cardiac defects. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
35. Withdrawal Syndrome in Newborns Babies born to mothers who took Lexapro during pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, feeding difficulties, and breathing problems. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro during pregnancy.
36. Tardive Dyskinesia In rare cases, long-term use of Lexapro can cause tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder characterized by involuntary movements of the face, tongue, and limbs. If you experience any involuntary movements while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
37. Hypermotility In rare cases, Lexapro can cause hypermotility, or increased bowel movements. This can be a sign of a serious side effect and should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.
38. Hair Loss Lexapro can cause hair loss in some people. This is usually mild and goes away on its own, but if you have concerns, talk to your healthcare provider.
39. Galactorrhea In rare cases, Lexapro can cause galactorrhea, or breast milk production in non-pregnant or non-breastfeeding women. If you experience this side effect while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
40. Pancreatitis In rare cases, Lexapro can cause pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms of pancreatitis include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
41. Aggression In rare cases, Lexapro can cause aggression or violent behavior. If you experience any changes in behavior or mood while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider immediately.
42. Hypoglycemia Lexapro can cause hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, in people with diabetes. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, confusion, and sweating. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
43. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome In rare cases, taking Lexapro with other drugs that affect serotonin levels can cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome include fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, and seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
44. Photosensitivity Lexapro can cause photosensitivity, or sensitivity to sunlight. This can increase the risk of sunburn and skin damage. If you experience any skin reactions or sunburn while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
45. Hypermagnesemia In rare cases, taking high doses of Lexapro can cause hypermagnesemia, or high levels of magnesium in the blood. Symptoms of hypermagnesemia include muscle weakness, lethargy, and confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
46. Hypertension Lexapro can cause hypertension, or high blood pressure, in some people. This can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. If you have concerns about your blood pressure while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
47. Akathisia In rare cases, Lexapro can cause akathisia, a movement disorder characterized by an inability to sit still or restlessness. If you experience any movement problems while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
48. Suicidal Thoughts in Young Adults In addition to an increased risk of suicide in children and adolescents, young adults aged 18-24 may also have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior while taking Lexapro. It is important to closely monitor young adults taking Lexapro and to report any changes in behavior or mood to their healthcare provider.
49. Increased Risk of Bleeding in Surgery Lexapro can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. If you are planning to have surgery, tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including Lexapro.
50. Psychological Dependence Some people may become psychologically dependent on Lexapro and experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the medication. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping Lexapro and to follow their instructions for tapering off the medication.
51. Erectile Dysfunction Lexapro can cause erectile dysfunction in men, making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. If you experience this side effect while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
52. Decreased Libido In addition to erectile dysfunction, Lexapro can also cause decreased libido, or a decreased interest in sexual activity. If you experience this side effect while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
53. Sleep Disturbances Lexapro can cause sleep disturbances such as insomnia or vivid dreams. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own, but if they persist or worsen, talk to your healthcare provider.
54. Weight Changes Lexapro can cause weight changes, including weight gain or weight loss. If you have concerns about your weight while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
55. Sweating Lexapro can cause excessive sweating, especially at night. If you experience this side effect while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
56. Cognitive and Motor Impairment In rare cases, Lexapro can cause cognitive and motor impairment, including difficulty with concentration, memory, and coordination. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
57. Impaired Driving and Operating Heavy Machinery Due to its potential to cause cognitive and motor impairment, Lexapro can impair the ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. It is important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Lexapro affects you.
58. Drug Dependency Some people may become dependent on Lexapro and experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the medication. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping Lexapro and to follow their instructions for tapering off the medication.
59. Interaction with Alcohol Lexapro can interact with alcohol and increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. It is important to avoid alcohol while taking Lexapro.
60. Interaction with Grapefruit Juice Lexapro can interact with grapefruit juice and increase the risk of side effects. It is important to avoid grapefruit juice while taking Lexapro.
61. Insomnia Lexapro can cause insomnia, or difficulty falling or staying asleep. This side effect is usually mild and goes away on its own, but if it persists or worsens, talk to your healthcare provider.
62. Fatigue In addition to insomnia, Lexapro can also cause fatigue or excessive tiredness. If you experience this side effect while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
63. Tremors Lexapro can cause tremors or shaking, especially in the hands. This side effect is usually mild and goes away on its own, but if it persists or worsens, talk to your healthcare provider.
64. Abnormal Dreams Lexapro can cause abnormal dreams, including vivid or disturbing dreams. If you experience this side effect while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
65. Dry Mouth Lexapro can cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of dental problems. If you experience this side effect while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
66. Changes in Appetite Lexapro can cause changes in appetite, including decreased or increased appetite. If you have concerns about your appetite while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
67. Joint Pain Lexapro can cause joint pain or stiffness, especially in the hands and feet. This side effect is usually mild and goes away on its own, but if it persists or worsens, talk to your healthcare provider.
68. Muscle Twitching In rare cases, Lexapro can cause muscle twitching, especially in the face or limbs. If you experience this side effect while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
69. Increased Heart Rate Lexapro can cause an increased heart rate or palpitations, especially in people with preexisting heart conditions. If you have concerns about your heart rate while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
70. Increased Risk of Severe Withdrawal Stopping Lexapro suddenly can cause severe withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headache, and dizziness. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping Lexapro and to follow their instructions for tapering off the medication.
71. Increased Risk of Hyponatremia In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause hyponatremia, or low levels of sodium in the blood. Symptoms of hyponatremia include headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
72. Anemia In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause anemia, a condition characterized by a low red blood cell count. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
73. Thrombocytopenia In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by a low platelet count. Symptoms of thrombocytopenia include bleeding and bruising easily. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
74. Impaired Liver Function In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause impaired liver function. Symptoms of impaired liver function include jaundice, dark urine, and abdominal pain. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
75. Increased Risk of Suicidal Thoughts in Adults taking Lexapro may have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. It is important to closely monitor adults taking Lexapro and to report any changes in behavior or mood to their healthcare provider.
76. Eosinophilia In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause eosinophilia, a condition characterized by a high level of eosinophils in the blood. Symptoms of eosinophilia include rash, fever, and muscle pain. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
77. Osteoporosis In some studies, long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro has been associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones. If you have concerns about your risk of osteoporosis while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
78. Seizures In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause seizures, especially in people with a history of seizures or epilepsy. If you experience a seizure while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
79. Agitation and Restlessness In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause agitation and restlessness, especially in children and adolescents. If you experience this side effect while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
80. Memory Impairment In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause memory impairment, including difficulty with concentration, recall, and recognition. If you experience any memory problems while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
81. Hypothyroidism In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
82. Allergic Reaction In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
83. Gastrointestinal Bleeding In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding include black or tarry stools, abdominal pain, and vomiting blood. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
84. Cardiac Arrhythmia In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause cardiac arrhythmia, or an irregular heartbeat. Symptoms of cardiac arrhythmia include palpitations, dizziness, and fainting. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
85. Increased Risk of Falls Due to its potential to cause dizziness and impaired coordination, taking Lexapro can increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults. It is important to take precautions to prevent falls, such as using assistive devices and avoiding activities that require balance or coordination.
86. Discontinuation Syndrome Stopping Lexapro suddenly can cause discontinuation syndrome, a set of symptoms that can include dizziness, headache, nausea, and anxiety. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping Lexapro and to follow their instructions for tapering off the medication.
87. Hypersensitivity Syndrome In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause hypersensitivity syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by fever, rash, and organ dysfunction. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
88. Interference with Cognitive and Motor Performance Due to its potential to cause cognitive and motor impairment, taking Lexapro can interfere with activities that require concentration and coordination, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.
89. Interaction with Other Medications Lexapro can interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including Lexapro, to avoid potential interactions.
90. Increased Risk of Bleeding in People with Blood Clotting Disorders Lexapro can increase the risk of bleeding in people with blood clotting disorders such as hemophilia. If you have a blood clotting disorder, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
91. Serotonin Syndrome In rare cases, taking Lexapro with other drugs that affect serotonin levels can cause serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and muscle rigidity. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
92. Increased Risk of Bone Fractures In some studies, long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro has been associated with an increased risk of bone fractures, especially in older adults. If you have concerns about your risk of bone fractures while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
93. Increased Risk of Bleeding in People with Ulcers Lexapro can increase the risk of bleeding in people with ulcers. If you have an ulcer, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
94. Discoloration of Teeth In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause discoloration of the teeth, especially in children. If you notice any changes in the color of your teeth while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
95. Akinesia In rare cases, Lexapro can cause akinesia, a movement disorder characterized by a lack of movement or slowness of movement. If you experience any movement problems while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
96. Decreased Platelet Aggregation Lexapro can decrease platelet aggregation, or the ability of platelets to clump together and form a blood clot. This can increase the risk of bleeding. If you have concerns about your risk of bleeding while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
97. Decreased Bone Density In some studies, long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro has been associated with a decreased bone density, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. If you have concerns about your bone health while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
98. Drug Interactions with CYP2D6 Inhibitors Lexapro can interact with drugs that inhibit the activity of the CYP2D6 enzyme, which can increase the levels of Lexapro in the blood and increase the risk of side effects. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including Lexapro, to avoid potential interactions.
99. Drug Interactions with CYP3A4 Inducers Lexapro can interact with drugs that induce the activity of the CYP3A4 enzyme, which can decrease the levels of Lexapro in the blood and decrease its effectiveness. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including Lexapro, to avoid potential interactions.
100. Long-Term Effects on Brain Function The long-term effects of taking Lexapro on brain function are not fully understood. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of long-term use of Lexapro, especially if you are considering taking the medication for an extended period of time.
101. Sexual Dysfunction in Women In addition to erectile dysfunction and decreased libido in men, Lexapro can also cause sexual dysfunction in women, including decreased arousal, difficulty achieving orgasm, and pain during intercourse. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
102. Photosensitivity In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause photosensitivity, or an increased sensitivity to sunlight. This can increase the risk of sunburn and skin damage. If you experience any skin changes or reactions while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
103. Increased Risk of Infection In some studies, long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro has been associated with an increased risk of infection, possibly due to their effects on the immune system. If you have concerns about your risk of infection while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
104. Akathisia In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause akathisia, a movement disorder characterized by restlessness, agitation, and an inability to sit still. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
105. Impaired Respiratory Function In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause impaired respiratory function, especially in people with preexisting respiratory conditions. If you have concerns about your respiratory function while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
106. Withdrawal Symptoms in Newborns If a pregnant woman takes Lexapro during the third trimester of pregnancy, her newborn may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, feeding difficulties, and respiratory distress. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of the medication.
107. Increased Risk of Mania or Hypomania In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause mania or hypomania, especially in people with a history of bipolar disorder. Symptoms of mania or hypomania include elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, and impulsive behavior. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
108. Increased Risk of Seizures in People with Epilepsy Taking Lexapro can increase the risk of seizures, especially in people with a history of epilepsy. If you have epilepsy, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
109. Increased Risk of Bleeding in People with Liver or Kidney Disease Lexapro can increase the risk of bleeding in people with liver or kidney disease. If you have liver or kidney disease, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
110. Increased Risk of Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior in Children and Adolescents Children and adolescents taking Lexapro may have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. It is important to closely monitor children and adolescents taking Lexapro and to report any changes in behavior or mood to their healthcare provider.
111. Tardive Dyskinesia In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements of the face, tongue, and limbs. If you experience any movement problems while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
112. Hypermotility In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause hypermotility, or excessive muscle movement. Symptoms of hypermotility include muscle spasms, twitching, and jerking. If you experience any movement problems while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
113. Increased Risk of Glaucoma In some studies, long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro has been associated with an increased risk of glaucoma, a condition characterized by damage to the optic nerve. If you have concerns about your risk of glaucoma while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
114. Derealization and Depersonalization In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause derealization and depersonalization, which are feelings of detachment from reality and the self, respectively. If you experience these symptoms while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
115. Psychotic Symptoms In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
116. Changes in Blood Pressure Taking Lexapro can cause changes in blood pressure, including both increases and decreases. If you have concerns about your blood pressure while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
117. Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Events In some studies, long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. If you have concerns about your cardiovascular health while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
118. Hypersomnia In rare cases, taking Lexapro can cause hypersomnia, or excessive sleepiness. If you experience excessive sleepiness while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
119. Hypertensive Crisis Taking Lexapro with certain medications, such as MAO inhibitors, can cause a hypertensive crisis, which is a severe increase in blood pressure that can be life-threatening. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including Lexapro, to avoid potential interactions.
120. Worsening of Preexisting Conditions Taking Lexapro can worsen preexisting conditions such as seizures, bipolar disorder, and glaucoma. If you have any preexisting conditions, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
121. Increased Risk of Stroke in Older Adults In some studies, long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro has been associated with an increased risk of stroke in older adults. If you are an older adult taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of the medication.
122. Interference with Blood Sugar Control in People with Diabetes Taking Lexapro can interfere with blood sugar control in people with diabetes, potentially leading to hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. If you have diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
123. Interference with Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) Taking Lexapro can interfere with the effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), a treatment for severe depression and other mental health conditions. If you are undergoing ECT, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
124. Increased Risk of Breast Cancer In some studies, long-term use of SSRIs like Lexapro has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer in women. If you have concerns about your risk of breast cancer while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
125. Increased Risk of Hemorrhagic Stroke in People with Atrial Fibrillation Taking Lexapro can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke in people with atrial fibrillation, a condition characterized by an irregular heartbeat. If you have atrial fibrillation, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
126. Interference with Cognitive and Motor Development in Infants If a pregnant woman takes Lexapro during the third trimester of pregnancy, her infant may experience interference with cognitive and motor development. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of the medication.
127. Interference with Breastfeeding Taking Lexapro can pass into breast milk and may affect the health of a nursing infant. If you are breastfeeding while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of the medication.
128. Interference with Fertility Taking Lexapro can interfere with fertility in men and women. If you have concerns about your fertility while taking Lexapro, talk to your healthcare provider.
129. Increased Risk of Pneumonia in People with Parkinson’s Disease Taking Lexapro can increase the risk of pneumonia in people with Parkinson’s disease. If you have Parkinson’s disease, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Lexapro.
130. Increased Risk of Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior in Young Adults Young adults taking Lexapro may have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. It is important to closely monitor young adults taking Lexapro and to report any changes in behavior or mood to their healthcare provider.
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