Understanding Lexapro's Adjustments: Do Side Effects of Lexapro Go Away?

October 13, 2025 •

5 min read

Initial side effects of Lexapro are a common experience, with many people reporting issues like nausea and insomnia during the first few weeks of treatment. As your body adjusts to the medication, the answer to the question "Do side effects of Lexapro go away?" is often yes, but this depends on the specific side effect and the individual.

Quick Summary

Common Lexapro side effects, such as nausea and fatigue, typically improve within the first few weeks as the body adjusts. However, some side effects like sexual dysfunction may persist for the duration of treatment. Management strategies exist to help minimize discomfort during the adjustment period.

Key Points

Initial side effects are common: Many people experience side effects like nausea, headaches, and insomnia during the first few weeks of starting Lexapro.
Most mild effects are temporary: For many, symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and fatigue will subside within a few weeks as the body becomes accustomed to the medication.
Some side effects can be persistent: Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido and delayed orgasm, may not go away while on Lexapro and should be discussed with a doctor.
Management strategies can help: Taking the medication with food, adjusting the timing of your dose, and lifestyle changes like exercise can help mitigate discomfort during the adjustment period.
Consult your doctor for persistent issues: If side effects continue beyond four to six weeks or become bothersome, speak with your healthcare provider about potential solutions like dosage adjustment.
Watch for severe reactions: Be aware of serious but rare side effects like serotonin syndrome, severe allergic reactions, and increased suicidal thoughts, which require immediate medical attention.
Never stop abruptly: Discontinuing Lexapro suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Always taper off under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Navigating the Initial Phase of Lexapro Treatment

Starting any new medication can come with an adjustment period, and Lexapro (escitalopram) is no exception. Many patients experience side effects in the first one to four weeks as their body adapts to the new influx of serotonin. This is often the most challenging period, but understanding that many of these initial symptoms are temporary can provide a sense of reassurance. Mild to moderate issues, including nausea, headache, dizziness, insomnia, and increased sweating, are most prominent in the beginning but tend to fade over time.

The full therapeutic benefits of Lexapro can take four to six weeks to manifest, which can be a frustrating timeline for those also dealing with uncomfortable side effects. However, it is crucial to continue taking the medication as prescribed and not to stop abruptly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Communication with your healthcare provider is key during this period, as they can offer guidance on managing symptoms and adjusting treatment if necessary.

Timeline and Duration of Common Side Effects

The duration of Lexapro's side effects can vary depending on the specific symptom and the individual's unique physiology. For many, a predictable timeline unfolds as their body and brain chemistry stabilize.

Short-term side effects (often subside within weeks)

Nausea: One of the most common initial complaints, nausea often improves within the first couple of weeks. Taking Lexapro with food can help minimize stomach upset.
Headaches: Headaches experienced during the first few weeks typically lessen over time. If they persist or are severe, it's important to consult a doctor, as it could signal an issue with low sodium levels.
Insomnia or Drowsiness: Some individuals experience trouble sleeping, while others feel sleepy. This is a common early effect. Adjusting the time of day you take your dose (morning for insomnia, evening for drowsiness) can often help.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is common at the start. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can help boost energy levels and combat this symptom.
Increased Sweating: This side effect can occur initially and may improve. Wearing loose clothing or using a strong antiperspirant are practical management techniques.

Persistent side effects (may last longer or for the duration of treatment)

While many initial side effects resolve, some can linger for as long as a person takes the medication. The most frequently cited persistent side effects are sexual in nature.

Sexual Dysfunction: Issues such as decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, or difficulty reaching orgasm are common and may not improve over time. If this is a significant concern, a doctor can discuss dosage adjustments or switching to an alternative antidepressant with a different side effect profile, like Wellbutrin.
Emotional Blunting: Some patients report feeling emotionally numb or a reduced range of emotions with long-term SSRI use. This effect may or may not lessen over time and should be discussed with a healthcare provider if it impacts quality of life.

Managing Side Effects While Taking Lexapro

While waiting for side effects to resolve, there are several ways to make the process more tolerable. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your regimen.

Adjusting dosage timing: If you experience insomnia, take your dose in the morning. If drowsiness is an issue, take it in the evening.
Taking with food: For gastrointestinal issues like nausea, taking the medication with a meal can help.
Avoiding alcohol: Alcohol can worsen side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and staying hydrated can help manage fatigue and other physical symptoms.

Lexapro vs. Other SSRIs: A Side Effect Comparison

For those considering alternatives due to persistent side effects, a comparison with other Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) can be helpful. Different SSRIs have slightly different side effect profiles, which can make one more suitable for a particular individual than another.


Side Effect	Lexapro	Zoloft (Sertraline)	Prozac (Fluoxetine)
Nausea	Common, but potentially less likely than other SSRIs	More likely to cause initial gastrointestinal upset	Common, especially initially
Sleep Issues	Can cause insomnia or drowsiness; manageable with dose timing	Can cause sleep disturbances	Can cause difficulty sleeping
Sexual Dysfunction	Common; may cause reduced libido or delayed ejaculation	Common; may cause reduced libido or ejaculation problems	Common; may cause reduced sex drive
Weight Changes	Associated with potential weight gain over the long term, though moderate	Moderate potential for weight gain	Can cause initial weight loss due to decreased appetite
Dizziness	Common, especially initially	Common	Common

Serious Side Effects and When to See a Doctor

While most Lexapro side effects are mild and transient, some severe and rare side effects require immediate medical attention. It is crucial to be aware of the warning signs for these conditions.

Serotonin Syndrome: A potentially life-threatening condition caused by excess serotonin. Symptoms include agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and muscle stiffness.
Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior: The FDA has issued a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in children, adolescents, and young adults starting antidepressants. Close monitoring is essential, particularly in the initial weeks of treatment or after a dosage change.
Low Sodium Levels (Hyponatremia): Symptoms can include headache, confusion, weakness, and seizures, especially in older adults.
Severe Allergic Reaction: Signs include rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

If you experience any of these severe symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately. For bothersome but non-emergency side effects that persist beyond a few weeks, contact your healthcare provider to discuss potential solutions.

Conclusion

For most people starting Lexapro, the answer to the question "Do side effects of Lexapro go away?" is a reassuring yes, with the most common and mild symptoms subsiding as the body adjusts over several weeks. However, certain side effects, most notably sexual dysfunction, may persist for the duration of treatment. Open and honest communication with your healthcare provider is the most important tool for navigating this process. They can help manage uncomfortable symptoms, adjust your dosage if necessary, or explore alternative medication options if side effects become intolerable. By staying informed and working with your doctor, you can give the medication the best chance to be effective while minimizing discomfort during the adjustment period. Learn more about managing side effects and understanding the science behind antidepressants at the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Initial side effects of Lexapro, such as nausea, fatigue, and headaches, are most noticeable during the first one to four weeks of treatment and often subside as your body adjusts to the medication.

Common short-term side effects include nausea, headache, difficulty sleeping or increased drowsiness, increased sweating, and dry mouth. These symptoms are most prominent early on and often resolve with time.

Sexual side effects like decreased libido or delayed orgasm may persist for as long as you continue to take Lexapro. They do not always resolve over time like other initial side effects.

Taking your Lexapro dose with or after food can help minimize nausea. It is also helpful to avoid rich or spicy foods. If nausea persists, your doctor might suggest other strategies or medications.

You should contact your doctor if side effects are severe, don't improve after a few weeks, or if you experience serious symptoms like chest pain, confusion, or thoughts of self-harm. Always consult them before making any changes to your dose.

No, you should never stop taking Lexapro suddenly without consulting your doctor. Abruptly discontinuing the medication can cause withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor can help you taper off the dose safely if needed.

Lexapro generally has a well-tolerated side effect profile, similar to other SSRIs like Prozac and Zoloft. However, specific side effects can differ. For instance, some people find Lexapro causes fewer gastrointestinal issues initially than Zoloft, but it might have a higher risk of sexual side effects.