Lexapro Dosage
Lexapro (generic name: escitalopram) is a prescription medication commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Lexapro is available in different dosages, including 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets.The starting dose of Lexapro for most adults is 10 mg once daily. However, the dosage may be adjusted based on an individual's response to treatment. In some cases, a lower initial dose of 5 mg may be recommended, particularly for older adults or those with certain medical conditions.
It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and not exceed it without consulting a healthcare professional. Increasing or decreasing the dosage should be done under medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness. Regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor the response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
It is important to note that the maximum recommended daily dosage of Lexapro is typically 20 mg for adults. Dosages higher than 20 mg have not been shown to provide additional benefits and may increase the risk of side effects.
In addition to the recommended dosages, it's important to be aware of certain considerations when taking Lexapro. Here are a few key points:
1. Timing: Lexapro can be taken with or without food. It's generally recommended to take it around the same time each day to help establish a routine.
2. Adherence: It's crucial to take Lexapro as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Missing doses or stopping the medication abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and may negatively impact your treatment outcomes.
3. Side Effects: Like any medication, Lexapro can cause side effects. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, insomnia, drowsiness, and sexual dysfunction. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, it's important to inform your doctor.
4. Adjustments and Discontinuation: Any changes to your Lexapro dosage, including starting, adjusting, or stopping the medication, should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Abruptly stopping Lexapro can lead to discontinuation symptoms, such as dizziness, irritability, and mood swings.
5. Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your doctor are crucial while taking Lexapro. They will assess your response to treatment, monitor for any side effects or interactions with other medications, and make any necessary adjustments.
6. Effectiveness Timeline: It may take several weeks for Lexapro to reach its full therapeutic effect. It's important to be patient and continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you don't notice immediate improvements. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about the medication's effectiveness.
7. Pediatric Use: Lexapro is approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adolescents aged 12 to 17 years. The recommended starting dose for this population is typically 10 mg per day. The safety and effectiveness of Lexapro in children younger than 12 years have not been established.
8. Special Populations: Individuals with liver or kidney impairment may require dosage adjustments or closer monitoring while taking Lexapro. Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider before starting Lexapro.
9. Drug Interactions: Lexapro can interact with certain medications, including other antidepressants, blood thinners, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and some herbal supplements. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to minimize the risk of interactions.
10. Individualized Treatment: Every person responds differently to medications. Your healthcare provider will assess your specific needs and tailor the Lexapro dosage and treatment plan accordingly. They may adjust the dosage over time to achieve the best results with minimal side effects.
When the time comes to withdrawal off Lexapro, the dosage you are taking can make a difference. With 10mg Lexapro dosage being the normal starting dosage, after taking the 10mg of Lexapro for one week or more it is important that you taper off the Lexapro slowly. Benefits from Lexapro mat be slower to achieve but within the first week of taking Lexapro the medication has permeated your body and withdrawal side effects will likely happen.
Of course, at 20mg dosage of Lexapro, the medication must be reduced slower.
If you are prescribed 5mg of Lexapro, many people can cut the Lexapro in half and then stop the Lexapro completely in 2 weeks.
Will Side Effects Start at Different Dosages?
It would be nice to be able to say yes to this question so you would know what to expect.
Lexapro side effects can start at a 5mg dosage or at 20mg. There is no way to tell, and the intensity of the Lexapro side effects is not dependent on the dosage.
The same is true when you tray and withdrawal from Lexapro. Some can stop taking 20mg abruptly and do fine and others can struggle just trying to get off 5mg dosage.