Key Takeaways
- Lexapro side effects in women include sexual dysfunction, weight gain, fatigue, and menstrual changes.
- Prescription medication should never be stopped without a medical plan, due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms and relapse.
- My Time Recovery in Fresno offers comprehensive support for women managing antidepressants and co-occurring disorders.
How Lexapro Affects Women From the Inside Out
If you’re thinking about starting Lexapro or already taking it, you probably have questions about how it might affect your mood, energy, body, and mind. Lexapro is one of the most commonly prescribed atypical antidepressants for women managing anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. While it can be highly effective, its side effects often show up in surprising ways. From changes in weight and libido to disruptions in menstrual cycles and even hair thinning, this medication can have a broad impact. At My Time Recovery in Fresno, we believe in giving women the clear information they need to make confident, informed decisions. If Lexapro or any antidepressant is affecting your health, reach out to My Time Recovery. We’re here with evidence-based, holistic care to help you feel like yourself again.
What Is Lexapro and Why Is It Prescribed?
Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram. It belongs to a class of prescription drugs known as atypical antidepressants. Specifically, it’s a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
These medications help regulate serotonin levels in the brain, a chemical responsible for mood, sleep, and emotional balance.
It’s commonly prescribed to treat:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (off-label)
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (off-label)
For many women, Lexapro can provide real relief from debilitating symptoms. However, like any medication, it may come with side effects. Some of these are more commonly reported among female patients.
Lexapro and Libido: Does Lexapro Affect Sex Drive?
Sadly, for many women, the answer is yes. Lexapro often impacts sex drive in noticeable ways. It can feel confusing or frustrating, especially if the medication is helping your mood but affecting your intimate life.
Sexual Dysfunction in Women
Lexapro and similar antidepressants are known to cause sexual dysfunction, especially among women. These issues may include:
- Decreased libido
- Difficulty reaching orgasm
- Vaginal dryness
- Delayed sexual response
This happens because serotonin, while helpful for mood stabilization, can suppress dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter responsible for sexual arousal and pleasure.
Managing Lexapro and Libido Changes
If you’re experiencing changes in your sex drive, it’s crucial not to stop your medication abruptly. Instead, speak with a qualified provider. In some cases, adjusting the dosage or switching antidepressants may help restore balance.
At My Time Recovery, our team provides mental health care that supports emotional well-being and addresses physical side effects. We help women feel more like themselves again. Confident, balanced, and supported in every part of their lives.
Does Lexapro Make You Gain Weight or Lose It?
Another commonly reported issue is Lexapro and weight gain. While not everyone experiences it, a significant number of women find that they gain weight while on Lexapro. Conversely, some report appetite suppression and weight loss.
Weight Gain and Lexapro
The reason behind Lexapro-related weight changes isn’t entirely clear. However, it’s believed to involve:
- Changes in metabolism
- Hormonal shifts
- Increased appetite
- Water retention
Some women may also experience Lexapro and fatigue. This lack of energy can make it harder to stay physically active, which may further contribute to weight changes.
Will Lexapro Make You Lose Weight?
In the short term, Lexapro can cause weight loss, particularly during the first few weeks. However, long-term use is more often associated with gradual weight gain. The experience differs from person to person, depending on metabolism, diet, physical activity, and how the drug interacts with individual brain chemistry.
If you’re concerned about weight gain or loss while on Lexapro, it’s important to monitor changes and discuss them with a healthcare provider. Nutritional counseling and physical wellness are also available as part of the recovery approach at My Time Recovery.
Lexapro, Your Hair, and Hormones: What Women Need to Know
Does Lexapro Cause Your Period?
The short answer: it can. Though not officially listed as a primary side effect, some users report:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Missed periods
- Heavier or lighter bleeding
- Cramping or bloating
This may be linked to serotonin’s influence on the hypothalamus. Hypothalamus is a region of the brain that regulates hormonal activity.
Does Lexapro Cause Hair Loss in Women?
Another uncommon but troubling side effect is hair thinning or loss. While not frequent, some women notice:
- Excess hair in brushes or the shower
- Thinner texture
- Receding hairline
This may be due to stress, hormonal fluctuations, or the medication itself. A doctor may recommend blood work to rule out other causes like thyroid imbalance or nutritional deficiencies.
At My Time Recovery, we can help evaluate these physical concerns holistically, offering referrals and support when Lexapro’s side effects disrupt your sense of self.
Mental Health, Lexapro, and Safety Concerns
While Lexapro can be very effective, it’s not without risks. Like all prescription drugs, it should be used with care, especially for women who may be managing multiple health conditions or medications.
Bipolar Disorder and Lexapro
One major concern is using Lexapro without a proper diagnosis. For women with undiagnosed bipolar disorder, Lexapro can trigger manic or hypomanic episodes, worsening the condition. This is why accurate psychiatric evaluation is essential before beginning antidepressants.
Suicidal Thoughts and Withdrawal Symptoms
Women, particularly young adults and adolescents, should also be monitored for suicidal thoughts when beginning or changing doses of Lexapro. The FDA has issued warnings about increased risk during the initial treatment period.
Stopping Lexapro suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms like:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Nausea
- Insomnia
It’s vital to taper off antidepressants slowly under medical supervision. At My Time Recovery, we provide support for those transitioning on or off antidepressants safely and with care.
Lexapro and Drug Interactions: What to Avoid
Lexapro doesn’t work in isolation. It can interact with other medications you might already be taking. In some cases, these combinations can lead to serious health complications. Even vitamins, herbal supplements, or seemingly harmless over-the-counter medications can cause issues. That’s why it’s so important to let your provider know about everything you’re using so they can help keep you safe.
Risk of Serotonin Syndrome
One of the most dangerous drug interactions is Serotonin Syndrome. This occurs when serotonin levels become dangerously high, often due to combining Lexapro with other serotonin-boosting medications like:
- MAOIs (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
- Tramadol
- St. John’s Wort
- Other SSRIs or SNRIs
Symptoms may include:
- High fever
- Muscle rigidity
- Confusion
- Seizures
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency help immediately.
At My Time Recovery, our clinicians carefully monitor drug interactions, mental health changes, and physical symptoms to help each client achieve stability and safety.
Find Compassionate Care at My Time Recovery
Lexapro can be a helpful medication for managing mood and anxiety disorders. But for many women, it brings alongside effects that are hard to ignore. These can include changes in libido, weight gain, fatigue, and menstrual irregularities. It’s important to weigh the benefits against these challenges when considering or continuing treatment.
If you’re struggling with how Lexapro affects your body or mood, you’re not alone. Many women face similar challenges, and they deserve real answers and compassionate care. At My Time Recovery, we specialize in treating mental health and substance use together using evidence-based care. Our family-owned center in Fresno, CA provides a wide range of support services. We offer detox and day treatment options. We also provide outpatient therapy for continued care.
Call My Time Recovery today to speak with a caring admissions specialist and take the next step toward your health and freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Lexapro make you gain weight?
Yes, many women report weight gain due to increased appetite, changes in metabolism, or reduced physical activity caused by fatigue.
2. Can Lexapro cause hair loss in women?
Although rare, some women experience hair thinning or loss. It’s important to consult with a doctor to determine the cause.
3. Does Lexapro affect your period?
Yes, some users report changes in cycle timing, flow, or symptoms. Hormonal shifts influenced by serotonin may play a role.
4. Does Lexapro affect sex drive in women?
Yes, it can lead to reduced libido, difficulty with arousal, and other sexual side effects. These effects are common among SSRIs.
5. What are the signs of Serotonin Syndrome from Lexapro?
Signs include fever, confusion, tremors, and rapid heart rate. Seek emergency care if these occur after starting or increasing Lexapro.
