Lexapro© is a type of medication that is generally prescribed to patients aged 12 and older to treat major depression. This medication is also taken for generalized anxiety disorder. Lexapro is a type of compound escitalopram that is classified as a type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Although this medication is not generally viewed as being addictive, patients who take it can develop a dependence on it quickly. Unfortunately, patients are likely to experience Lexapro side effects regardless of whether dependence on the substances has formed.
How Does Lexapro Work?
Lexapro works by affecting the serotonin levels along the central nervous system and in the brain. Serotonin is a type of neurotransmitter in the body that specifically relates to mood and avoidance behaviors. When serotonin levels become too low, it can increase the intensity of avoidance behaviors like agoraphobia and anxiety.
The medication helps by blocking the re-absorption of any available serotonin by various nerve cells. This helps to stabilize the level of serotonin in the brain and nervous system and makes the flow of these cells far more informative, organized, and regulated.
Although Lexapro does provide relief for many patients, like most medications, there is a possibility of side effects. Unfortunately, there is also a chance that a patient may develop an addiction or a dependence on the medication.
Common Lexapro Side Effects
Reports surrounding patients who take SSRI antidepressants show that approximately 38% of all patients experience some type of side effect from these medications. Some of the common Lexapro side effects reported by patients include:
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Dizzness
- Headaches
- Decreased interest in sexual activities
- Increased sweating
- Decreased appetite
- Dry mouth
The type and severity of side effects that patients experience can vary, as well as the amount of time that they experience the side effects. It should also be noted that these side effects can begin after starting the medication or anytime during its use. If patients develop addictions or dependence on this medication, they may experience various other Lexapro side effects as well.
What Is Lexapro Dependence/Addiction?
There have been some reports of Lexapro use as a recreational drug. However, most people do not take this medication with any intention of developing an addiction. However, there are many instances where people do become very dependent on it. This can start within a few months of treatment and will be obvious in cases where a dose is missed or delayed.
After a dependence is developed, a patient may experience Lexapro side effects like feeling sick or dizzy. They may also experience other withdrawal symptoms. Although many patients do not think about addiction to Lexapro as they would in the same way as other medications, such as methamphetamine or heroin, the consequences of stopping the use of Lexapro once dependence or addictions develop are similar.
Common Signs of Dependence and Addiction
Individuals who develop an addiction or dependence on Lexapro may experience physical and mental Lexapro side effects. In these cases, patients will first notice that they have a physical or mental dependency on the medication after missing their morning dose or after stopping the medication for a day or two due to delays in getting the prescription filled.
One of the first Lexapro side effects that patients experience is a general lack of feeling happy or normal. Some patients have reported experiencing a Lexapro high, although this is extremely rare. It is far more common for individuals to develop a fear of discontinuing the medication, especially after having taken it for a long time. In some cases, this fear is a result of not wanting to deal with the Lexapro side effects associated with withdrawal or the fear of dealing with other possible reactions.
After taking the medication for some time, patients may not experience the desired level of relief from their depression symptoms due to developing a tolerance. This may warrant an increased dosage. In some cases, individuals may have to go through Lexapro addiction treatment if their need for the medication has grown to an undesirable level. Other commonly reported Lexapro side effects that could indicate tolerance or addiction include:
- Experiencing worsening depression
- Experiencing elevated levels of anxiety
- Experience intensified rebound symptoms, particularly when the medication is stopped
- Needing the medication more frequently for desired relief
- Lexapro no longer provides you with any relief
If you experience any of these symptoms, treatment to overcome the addiction or dependence may be needed.
How to Overcome Lexapro Addiction or Dependence
Finding an effective prescription drug detox can make the process of getting off Lexapro much easier. After recognizing that you are dependent on this medication, you can make the choice to end your addiction symptoms.
One of the most effective treatments that you can start immediately is detox. A medically supervised detox can ensure you remain safe and comfortable throughout the process. You will experience an array of side effects as your body slowly rids itself of the medication. Having a skilled team of professionals guiding the process can make the process easier by providing you with medications, nutritional foods, and other services to help you succeed.
Get Help in Muscle Shoals, AL, Today
If you or a loved one has developed an addiction or dependence on Lexapro and are struggling with Lexapro side effects, it is important that you know that you do not have to deal with this challenging situation on your own. Help is available for you at Genesis Medical Detox.
Our experts at Genesis Medical Detox offer balanced treatment options for patients to help them effectively overcome their addictions. We recognize that no two addictions are the same. For this reason, we work with each patient to develop an individualized treatment program that is specifically tailored to reflect their personal circumstances and their specific needs and goals.
We will remain with you throughout the entire process to ensure you continue to receive the care and treatment you need to overcome your Lexapro addiction in Muscle Shoals, AL. To get started, contact our team at (844) 895-0537 to verify your insurance and speak with our trained professionals.
