Lexapro Side Effects (Nuksanat)
Lexapro (Escitalopram) is generally well tolerated when taken at the correct dose under medical supervision. However, like all antidepressants, it can cause side effects in some patients, and it carries a class-wide warning about mood changes that every patient and caregiver should know.
Common Side Effects (Aam Nuksanat)
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or drowsiness)
These side effects are usually mild and often ease after the first couple of weeks. If they continue, inform your doctor.
Serious Side Effects (Sanjeedah Nuksanat)
- Suicidal thoughts or worsening mood, particularly in young adults and adolescents — see a doctor immediately
- Serotonin syndrome (agitation, rapid heartbeat, high fever, muscle rigidity) — see a doctor immediately
- Severe allergic reaction or unusual bleeding — see a doctor immediately
Suicidal Thoughts Warning (Ahm Tanbeeh)
SSRIs like Lexapro carry a well-known class warning: they may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviour, especially in people under 25 and especially during the first few weeks of treatment or after a change in dose. This does not mean everyone will experience this, but family members and caregivers should watch for sudden changes in mood, agitation, or talk of self-harm and contact a doctor immediately if these appear. This medicine should never be started, stopped, or stigmatised as a personal weakness — depression and anxiety are treatable medical conditions.
When to See a Doctor (Kab Doctor Se Milna Zaroori Hai)
- New or worsening suicidal thoughts, self-harm urges, or a sudden change in mood or behaviour — especially in the first few weeks of treatment or after a dose change, and particularly in people under 25
- Signs of serotonin syndrome — agitation, rapid heartbeat, high fever, muscle stiffness or twitching, confusion
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing) or unusual bleeding or bruising
Warnings and Precautions (Ihtiyat)
- Don't use Lexapro if you are allergic to Escitalopram or any ingredient
- Never stop this medicine abruptly — sudden discontinuation can cause withdrawal-like symptoms; any dose change should be tapered under a doctor's guidance
Side Effects Summary Table
| Type | Side Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Common | Nausea | Monitor / inform doctor |
| Common | Dry mouth | Monitor / inform doctor |
| Common | Sleep disturbances | Monitor / inform doctor |
| Serious | Suicidal thoughts or worsening mood | See a doctor immediately |
| Serious | Serotonin syndrome | See a doctor immediately |
Reporting Side Effects
If you notice any unexpected side effect, report it on the DRAP pharmacovigilance portal: https://www.dra.gov.pk/pharmacovigilance
The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. If you notice any side effect, especially a change in mood or suicidal thoughts, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.