How to Wean Off Lexapro (5mg)

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Lexapro is an antidepressant that’s helped many individuals manage mood disorders and anxiety. Yet, despite the many perks, you may encounter difficulty once it’s time to stop the medication.

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So how do you wean off of Lexapro safely?

In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to weaning off Lexapro. Read on for our safety tips for managing the withdrawal symptoms from antidepressants.

What Is Lexapro?

Lexapro, or escitalopram, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It’s a type of medication that works by boosting the serotonin levels in your brain.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in your brain that regulates your emotions and gives you a better mood.

SSRI medications like Lexapro are popular in psychotherapy because of their safety and efficacy. It can treat major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and mood changes.

Still, if you stop taking antidepressants abruptly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. Your mental health may suffer as a result.

How Long Does It Take to Wean Off Lexapro?

Once you stop taking Lexapro, you begin to see the effects within a few days. The time frame depends on how long you were on the medication and your metabolism.

Some people start to see improvement within two weeks after their last dose. Meanwhile, others may take months to wean off of Lexapro.

If your withdrawal symptoms worsen even after a month of weaning, you may be experiencing a depression relapse. When this happens, you should seek medical help immediately.

Tapering schedule for weaning off Lexapro (5 mg) example.

It’s important to emphasize that tapering schedules should always be tailored to individual needs by a healthcare provider, as factors like duration of use, individual response, and any withdrawal symptoms can vary. This taper is an example only:

WeekDaily Dose

Notes:

• Adjustments: If withdrawal symptoms appear, consider staying on a given dose for a longer period or reducing in smaller increments.
• Consultation: Always discuss with a doctor before beginning any tapering process, as they can guide adjustments based on your experience and response.

Reasons Why People Need to Wean Off Lexapro

Below are common reasons why an individual may discontinue taking this prescription medication.

• Side Effects: Some people experience negative side effects from Lexapro. If you or your loved one feels nausea, dizziness, or weight changes, you may have to stop taking Lexapro.
• Symptom Improvement: Sometimes your symptoms improve, and there’s no more need to take medication. In this case, your doctor may wean you off of Lexapro.
• Pregnancy: Lexapro isn’t a safe drug for pregnant women. Discontinuing Lexapro may be necessary.
• Alternative Treatments: Others want to explore alternative treatments like therapy and natural supplements.
• Financial Difficulties: Unfortunately, Lexapro can be an expensive medication. People who can no longer afford it may opt to stop taking the drug.

How to Wean Off of Lexapro: A Step-By-Step Guide

Regardless of your reason for stopping Lexapro, it’s essential to prepare yourself for the withdrawal symptoms.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you wean off of antidepressants like Lexapro.

1. Consult a Professional

Whenever you’re weaning off of antidepressants, it’s always wise to consult with healthcare professionals.

First, you should ask your doctor whether you can stop the medication. Your doctor will assess your medical history, current symptoms, risk factors, and response to the medication.

Afterward, your doctor will give you the proper dosage adjustment.

2. Create a Tapering Plan

Creating a tapering plan is necessary to give your brain time to adjust to the lower neurotransmitter levels. Tapering plans involve gradual dose reductions until your body is fully rid of the medication.

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A good tapering schedule will outline the Lexapro dosages you must take over months. For instance, your dosage may lessen by 10% every few weeks, depending on your body’s response.

3. Watch Out for SSRI Withdrawal

When you’re weaning off of Lexapro, remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all tapering schedule. Some people will have more withdrawal symptoms than others.

Studies show that over 20% of people have a negative experience when they stop taking antidepressants.

If you’re struggling with antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, it’s best to tell your doctor about it. A healthcare professional can adjust your tapering plan as needed.

4. Find a Support System

Having a strong support system helps when you’re going through the Lexapro withdrawal symptoms. Sometimes knowing that a loved one is with you at home can ease your mind and alleviate anxiety.

If you’re weaning off of Lexapro, reach out to your friends and family to let them know what you’re going through. They can make you feel less isolated and reduce your distress.

Moreover, you can also find an online support group or attend therapy sessions. With a support group, you can get expert guidance when it comes to handling your symptoms!

5. Make Lifestyle Adjustments

Lastly, lifestyle adjustments can prepare your body for the tough times ahead.

Exercising lessens your anxiety and stress. It curbs your cravings and strengthens you to surpass the negative emotions.

Meditating and doing breathing exercises aid your nervous system and calm you for sleep. Immersing yourself in new hobbies also distracts you from the negative symptoms.

In addition, you can practice self-care by eating well and taking relaxing baths.

Try adapting these adjustments to your lifestyle in advance. Doing so lets you become better equipped to handle the stress of stopping medication!

The Benefits of Stopping Lexapro

Stopping antidepressants like Lexapro can have health benefits for some individuals. According to Medical News Today, it can alleviate tiredness and lightheadedness.

Ending your medications may make your head clearer and restore your energy levels. It can also stop symptoms like diarrhea, sweating, and dry mouth.

Stopping may also restore your libido and help you regain a healthy weight.

The long-term use of Lexapro will make it harder for you to wean off. For this reason, some people may choose to stop the medication while it’s still early.

Potential Lexapro Withdrawal Symptoms

Did you know that antidepressants change the chemicals in your brain? Because of this, suddenly stopping the medication can have physical and mental effects.

Below are withdrawal symptoms you may experience when you stop taking Lexapro.

• Flu: You may experience flu-like symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and sweating.
• Insomnia: Having trouble sleeping is one of the most common discontinuation symptoms. In some cases, you may even have vivid dreams or nightmares.
• Mood Swings: Mood swings are common when you’re going through antidepressant withdrawal. You may feel agitated, irritable, or anxious at times.
• Diarrhea: Stopping antidepressant medication can lead to digestive issues. You may get diarrhea or lose your appetite.
• Hypersensitivity: You may experience brain zaps or electric shocks in your head. Your ears can start ringing, and sounds may seem louder than usual.
• Relapses: Watch out for signs of your depression relapsing. If this happens, you may be stopping the medication prematurely.

Tips for Managing Lexapro Withdrawal

Below are tips for managing the withdrawal effects of Lexapro.

1. Avoid the Cold Turkey Method

A study by Harvard Medical School found that patients who discontinued the use of Lexapro in less than seven days had a higher chance of relapse.

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Meanwhile, those who gradually decreased their dosage over a few months were more likely to avoid depression.

In short, don’t go cold turkey on your medication to avoid the symptoms of withdrawal!

2. Ask About Substitutes

You can ask your healthcare provider about substitutes for Lexapro. Some antidepressants are milder and take longer for the body to absorb.

These types of medication cause fewer problems upon discontinuation.

3. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water can help you flush the medication out of your body. It can also replenish the water you lose from side effects like diarrhea and sweating.

4. Join Counseling Sessions

Counseling allows you to build your skills and confidence for recovery.

By joining counseling sessions, you become equipped with evidence-based methods of coping. Your therapist can guide you through the challenges and support your overall well-being.

One treatment you can explore is cognitive behavioral therapy. This type of therapy teaches you how to challenge negative thoughts and reduce your risk of depression.

5. Seek Medical Advice

Don’t be afraid to approach your doctor for every issue you encounter. Always seek medical advice whenever you feel a side effect, and follow the tapering plan set by your doctor.

6. Explore Natural Remedies

Ask your doctor about natural remedies you can take to alleviate your withdrawal symptoms. Learn about FDA-approved herbs and teas that can boost your mood.

Additionally, you may practice yoga, mindfulness, and exercise to control your emotions. Focus on your nutrition and start eating a healthy diet!

7. Be Aware of Relapses

Be aware of the symptoms of depression. It also helps to ask your loved ones to remind you about the chance of relapsing.

If you feel any suicidal thoughts, call a helpline immediately and consider going back to the medication!

8. Don’t Rush It

In case you experience discontinuation symptoms after lowering a dose, consider adding back half or all of the dose.

Know that there’s no fast way to wean off of Lexapro, and your reaction may be different from others. Just take it slowly, and over time you can overcome the symptoms!

Conclusion

So how do you wean off of Lexapro?

The best way is to consult your healthcare provider and create a tapering plan. Watch out for symptoms of withdrawal and immerse yourself in various enrichment activities.

Exercising and meditation can relieve the stress that comes with stopping antidepressant medication.

Lastly, seek advice from a family member, friend, or therapist. Doing so will allow you to learn the necessary skills to cope with depression.

With help from a solid support system, you can overcome the difficulties and begin living a healthier lifestyle!

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