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When is the best time to take Lexapro?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Dec 5, 2022.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Lexapro is usually taken once a day and you can take it either in the morning or at night.

  • If you find Lexapro stops you from getting to sleep – then take it in the morning
  • If you find Lexapro makes you feel sleepy – then take it at night
  • If you get night sweats from Lexapro – try taking it in the morning. Although this may cause sweats during the day, some people find these more manageable.

How do I switch Lexapro from night to morning?

If you normally take your Lexapro at night and you want to change to the morning, then skip that dose at night, and take it the next morning and every morning there after.

References
  • Rinkunas S. The Cut. Why Do I Wake Up Drenched in Sweat? https://www.thecut.com/2016/12/what-causes-night-sweats.html#:~:text=Commonly%20used%20medications%20which%20can,daytime%20sweating%20from%20these%20drugs.)
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro) National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Escitalopram-(Lexapro)
  • Does Lexapro Cause Night Sweats? Updated 26 July 2022. Hers https://www.forhers.com/blog/lexapro-night-sweats
  • Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate). Updated 09/2021. Allergan, Inc. https://www.drugs.com/pro/lexapro.html

Read next

Lexapro may cause weight gain because it blocks the serotonin transporter, which increases levels of serotonin in the brain, but also increases appetite and decreases metabolism. Research has shown approximately 40% of people taking antidepressants such as Lexapro will gain 7% or more of their starting body weight. The weight gain experienced with Lexapro is a lot less than that reported with other antidepressants such as paroxetine, mirtazapine, or doxepin but more than fluoxetine. Continue reading

Even though it takes Lexapro only a few hours to increase serotonin levels within the brain, it may take several weeks to start working. Signs that Lexapro has started working include an improvement in your sleep, energy, or appetite. In some, this may happen in as little as 1 to 2 weeks. Relief from symptoms, such as a depressed mood or a lack of interest in activities you used to enjoy, may take up to 6 to 8 weeks to fully improve. Continue reading

Lexapro can cause night sweats and increased sweating overall (night and day) was one of the most common side effects reported with Lexapro, reported by 3% to 8% (depending on the dose) of people. Although night sweats can be worrisome, they usually diminish with time as your body and brain adjust to the medication. Continue reading

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