When is the Best Time to Take Lexapro for Anxiety?

By We Level Up WA | Author Leslie Lugo, MS, RPh, BCPP | Editorial Policy | Research Policy

Living with anxiety can feel like carrying an invisible weight that affects every aspect of your life. For many individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, Lexapro (escitalopram) has become a valuable tool in their treatment journey. This medication has gained widespread recognition for its effectiveness in managing various anxiety conditions, from generalized anxiety disorder to panic attacks.

Let’s explore how to optimize your Lexapro regimen to best support your anxiety management goals and overall well-being.

What is Lexapro?

Lexapro (escitalopram) belongs to a class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medications work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain—a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, anxiety, and happiness. By preventing the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin, Lexapro helps maintain higher levels of this important chemical messenger, which can help stabilize mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.

Healthcare providers commonly prescribe Lexapro for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), a condition characterized by persistent, excessive worry about everyday matters. The medication is also effective for other anxiety-related conditions, including social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Unlike some fast-acting anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines, Lexapro works gradually to create sustainable changes in brain chemistry. This approach helps address the underlying neurochemical imbalances that contribute to anxiety rather than just temporarily masking symptoms. 

SSRIs like Lexapro are often considered first-line treatments for anxiety disorders due to their effectiveness and generally manageable side effect profile.

Benefits of Lexapro for Anxiety

When properly prescribed and managed, Lexapro can provide significant relief from the debilitating symptoms of anxiety. Many patients report a noticeable reduction in excessive worrying, racing thoughts, and the constant sense of dread that often accompanies anxiety disorders. Physical symptoms like muscle tension, restlessness, and fatigue may also improve with consistent treatment.

Beyond symptom reduction, Lexapro can help restore a sense of calm and control that anxiety often strips away. Many patients find they can engage more fully in daily activities, from work responsibilities to social interactions, as their anxiety symptoms become more manageable. Sleep quality often improves as well, with fewer anxiety-induced disruptions and racing thoughts at bedtime.

The stabilizing effect of Lexapro can create a foundation for other therapeutic approaches to work more effectively. When overwhelming anxiety is reduced, patients often find greater success with cognitive-behavioral therapy and other psychological treatments.

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Side Effects

While Lexapro is generally well-tolerated, side effects can occur, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Understanding these potential effects and how to manage them can help you stay committed to your treatment plan.

Common side effects include:

• Nausea or digestive discomfort (occurs in about 15% of patients)
• Headache or dizziness
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Insomnia or sleep disturbances
• Dry mouth
• Increased sweating
• Sexual side effects

Practical Management Strategies

For nausea or digestive issues: Taking Lexapro with food can ease stomach discomfort. A light snack is often enough—you don’t need a full meal. If morning nausea is a problem, switching to evening dosing might help you sleep through this side effect.

For sleep disturbances: If Lexapro causes insomnia, taking it in the morning may help. Conversely, if you experience drowsiness, an evening dose might be more appropriate. Establishing good sleep hygiene practices can also help, like limiting screen time before bed and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.

For headaches or dizziness: Staying well-hydrated throughout the day can help minimize these symptoms. If dizziness occurs, avoid sudden position changes and ensure you’re getting adequate rest.

Most side effects tend to improve within the first 2-4 weeks as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if side effects persist or significantly impact your quality of life, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They may suggest adjusting your dosage, changing your timing, or considering alternative treatments.

Interactions

Lexapro can interact with various medications and substances, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Being aware of these interactions is crucial for safe treatment.  Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking.

Other medications affecting serotonin: Combining Lexapro with other serotonergic drugs—including other antidepressants, certain pain medications, or migraine treatments—can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially serious condition. 

NSAIDs and aspirin: Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin alongside Lexapro may increase bleeding risk.

Alcohol: While not strictly prohibited, alcohol can worsen side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. It may also counteract the anxiety-reducing benefits of Lexapro. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and be aware of how it affects you.

Herbal supplements: Products like St. John’s Wort can interact with Lexapro and potentially cause dangerous increases in serotonin levels. Always discuss supplements with your healthcare provider.

Medications affecting metabolism of Lexapro: some medications may affect blood levels of Lexapro or may be affected by Lexapro because of the way they are metabolized, or broken down by the body. 

Special Considerations

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The risks and benefits of Lexapro during pregnancy require careful consideration. Some research suggests a small increased risk of certain birth defects, but untreated anxiety also carries risks. Discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider.

Older adults: Seniors may be more sensitive to side effects and typically start with lower doses. Monitoring for effects on balance is important to prevent falls.

Heart conditions: Lexapro can cause mild QT interval prolongation (an electrical change in the heart), which may be significant for people with certain heart conditions or in combination with other medications that also prolong the QT interval.

Suicidal thoughts: SSRIs may increase suicidal thoughts and self-destructive behavior in children and adolescents.

Starting Lexapro: What to Expect

Beginning Lexapro treatment for anxiety requires patience and realistic expectations. Unlike some medications that provide immediate relief, Lexapro works gradually by adjusting brain chemistry over time.

Anxiety and Lexapro Statistics

Anxiety is a common mental health condition characterized by excessive worry, fear, and apprehension. It can manifest in various forms, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Anxiety can significantly impact a person’s daily life, relationships, and well-being. Lexapro is a commonly prescribed medication for individuals struggling with anxiety. It is known for its effectiveness in alleviating symptoms and relieving those dealing with anxiety disorders.

We Level Up Washington’s Comprehensive Anxiety Treatment

At We Level Up Washington, we recognize that effective anxiety treatment extends beyond medication alone. Our integrated approach combines evidence-based pharmacological treatments like Lexapro with comprehensive therapeutic support tailored to your unique needs.

Our treatment philosophy centers on addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of anxiety. While Lexapro helps balance brain chemistry, our therapeutic programs work to identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and build resilience against future anxiety challenges.

For many patients, anxiety coexists with other conditions like depression, substance use disorders, or trauma-related issues. Our dual-diagnosis expertise allows us to address these interconnected challenges simultaneously, rather than treating them as separate problems. This integrated approach significantly improves outcomes compared to addressing each condition in isolation.

Our treatment team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, and specialized therapists who collaborate to create personalized treatment plans. These plans may incorporate:

• Medication management with regular monitoring and adjustment
• Individual therapy using proven approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Group therapy for shared learning and support
• Holistic wellness practices including mindfulness, nutrition, and exercise guidance
• Family education and support to strengthen your recovery network

Conclusion

Finding the optimal time to take Lexapro for anxiety is a personalized decision that depends on your unique response to the medication, daily routine, and specific anxiety symptoms. Whether you choose morning or evening dosing, consistency and patience are key to achieving the best results.

Remember that Lexapro is just one component of a comprehensive anxiety treatment plan. At We Level Up Washington, we’re committed to supporting you through every step of your recovery journey with evidence-based care that addresses both the neurochemical and psychological aspects of anxiety.

If you’re struggling with anxiety and considering Lexapro as a treatment option, or if you’re currently taking Lexapro but not experiencing optimal results, we invite you to contact our team. Our specialists can help you develop a personalized approach to timing, dosage, and complementary therapies that maximize your chances of successful anxiety management.

Don’t let anxiety control your life any longer. Reach out today at 509-348-4077 to learn how We Level Up Washington can help you reclaim your well-being and peace of mind.

Powerful Coping Skills for Anxiety. Top Mental Health Tips & Anxiety Tips Advice from a Therapist.

“Anxiety, when gone untreated, can increase over time. So here are four tips to calm your everyday anxiety. Take a breath. Do something that you enjoy. Remove yourself from the situation and go for a walk. Doing these four things gives you a better chance of calming your anxiety.”

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