How Long Does It Take For Lexapro To Work? The Answer May Surprise You

Tyler Collins

Written by

Tyler Collins

Published

July 26, 2022

Clinically Reviewed by

Rob McKinstry, LPHA

Lexapro

Are you feeling down and out? Are you struggling to find the energy to do the things you used to enjoy? You may be suffering from depression. Depression is a serious mental illness that affects millions of people around the world. If left untreated, it can lead to tragic consequences.

There is hope. With the help of medication, many people can overcome depression and live happy lives. We understand, however, that it’s hard to be positive when you’re feeling down. In fact, one of the symptoms of depression is not being able to enjoy things that used to make you happy. So it’s no wonder that one of the most common questions people with depression ask is how long it will take for their medication to start working.

Lexapro is a medication that is prescribed to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It can be a life-changing medication for those who suffer from these conditions, but how long does it take for the drug to start working? In this blog post, we will explore the answer to this question.

How Long Will It Take for Lexapro to Work?

LexaproCategorized as an SSRI, Lexapro works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood and anxiety disorders.

For most people who take the drug for depression and anxiety, it takes around two to six weeks for Lexapro to start working. This may seem like a long time, but it’s important to remember that everyone is different and will respond to the medication differently.

In the first one to two weeks, you may start noticing improvement in your energy levels, appetite, and sleep quality. In this period, you may notice that you have more drive to do things and that your eating habits have improved. These are all great signs that the medication is starting to work

By week four to six, you should start seeing a decrease in your depression symptoms. You may find that your mood has lifted and that you’re able to enjoy activities again. This is when the majority of people start to feel the full effects of Lexapro.

You may have more good days than bad. However, it’s important to continue taking the medication even if you’re feeling better. Consult with your doctor on how to taper off the medication to avoid any withdrawal symptoms.

If you don’t start seeing any improvement in your symptoms after six weeks, it’s important to consult with your doctor. They may increase your dosage or switch you to a different medication.

Can Lexapro Help Quickly with Anxiety and Depression?

Lexapro AddictionIf you do not have an understanding of the drug Lexapro, you may think that it will work like magic and cure your depression or anxiety overnight. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

While Lexapro can be an effective medication for many people, it takes time to work. It is not a drug that will give immediate relief such as Xanax used for anxiety.

Many people who often have this misconception about the drug are those who try to self-medicate without the advice of a medical doctor. It is also a common question by people who try to use Lexapro for recreational purposes.

If you are in a state of acute anxiety or depression, it is important to seek professional help immediately. This can be in the form of therapy, medication, or both. Do not take Lexapro or any other medication without the supervision of a medical doctor.

Getting Help for Lexapro Abuse in California

While Lexapro may not be considered highly addictive, recreational or illicit abuse of Lexapro is dangerous and can lead to physical dependence and other serious side effects.

If you or someone you know is struggling with Lexapro abuse, we can help. Our team of addiction specialists can provide you with the resources and support you need to recover.

Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs.

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