What are the side effects of Lexapro in the bathroom?

October 10, 2025 •

3 min read

In some studies, up to 18.3% of users report nausea and up to 14% report diarrhea when taking escitalopram (Lexapro). When starting this antidepressant, it's important to ask: what are the side effects of Lexapro in the bathroom? These often resolve over time.

Quick Summary

Lexapro (escitalopram) commonly causes bathroom-related side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and various urinary changes. These effects are due to serotonin's role in both the brain and the digestive tract.

Key Points

Gastrointestinal Issues are Common: Nausea, diarrhea, and constipation are among the most frequent side effects when starting Lexapro, affecting a large percentage of users.
Serotonin is the Cause: These side effects occur because Lexapro affects serotonin levels, and a majority of the body's serotonin receptors are in the digestive tract.
Side Effects are Dose-Dependent: Higher doses of Lexapro (e.g., 20mg) are more likely to cause bathroom-related side effects than lower doses (e.g., 10mg).
Urinary Changes Can Occur: Lexapro can cause urinary side effects, including painful urination, urinary retention, increased frequency, or incontinence.
Sexual Dysfunction is a Major Side Effect: Reduced libido, difficulty with orgasm, and erectile dysfunction are very common and often do not resolve over time like GI issues do.
Most GI Effects are Temporary: Many digestive side effects like nausea typically improve or disappear within the first few weeks of treatment as the body adjusts.
When to See a Doctor: Persistent or severe symptoms, painful urination, or signs of Serotonin Syndrome (like diarrhea with fever and agitation) require medical attention.

Understanding Lexapro and Its Mechanism

Lexapro (escitalopram) is an SSRI used for Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. SSRIs increase serotonin in the brain to stabilize mood. Serotonin receptors are also in the GI tract, which contributes to bathroom-related side effects. These effects are often most noticeable in the first one to two weeks and typically decrease as the body adjusts. Side effects may be more likely with higher doses, such as 20mg compared to 10mg.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Side Effects: A Common Concern

Digestive issues are frequently reported with Lexapro.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea is common, especially when starting Lexapro, affecting up to 18.3% of patients in clinical trials. This is due to serotonin 5-HT3 receptor stimulation in the gut. While initial nausea usually subsides within a few weeks, persistent vomiting is a severe side effect requiring medical attention.

Diarrhea and Constipation

Changes in bowel movements are also common, with diarrhea reported in up to 14% of users. Some individuals may experience constipation instead. These effects occur because serotonin helps regulate GI tract function. While usually temporary, persistent diarrhea with fever, agitation, or rapid heart rate could indicate Serotonin Syndrome and needs immediate medical care.

Other Digestive Issues

Other potential GI issues include abdominal pain, indigestion, heartburn, flatulence, and dry mouth. Dry mouth is reported by about 20% of users of similar SSRIs. Taking Lexapro with food may help alleviate some of these symptoms.

Urinary and Genitourinary Side Effects

Lexapro can also affect the urinary system and other functions.

Changes in Urination

Urinary changes can occur, including difficulty starting or fully emptying the bladder (urinary retention or hesitancy). In rare cases, acute urinary retention has been linked to escitalopram, particularly in older men with conditions like BPH. Some users experience increased frequency or loss of bladder control (urinary incontinence). Pain or a burning sensation during urination (dysuria) should be reported to a doctor. Nocturia (waking up to urinate at night) may also be more frequent with SSRI use. Urinary symptoms are more common in users over 60.

Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual side effects are very common with SSRIs, affecting a significant number of users. These are related to serotonin's influence on hormones and neurotransmitters. Men may experience delayed ejaculation or erectile dysfunction, while women may have difficulty reaching orgasm or reduced libido. Unlike many GI side effects, sexual dysfunction often persists.

Comparison of Common Bathroom-Related Side Effects


Side Effect	Primary System Affected	Commonality	Typical Duration	Management Tip
Nausea / Vomiting	Gastrointestinal	Very Common	Often resolves in 1-2 weeks	Take with food
Diarrhea	Gastrointestinal	Common (up to 14%)	Often transient	Stay hydrated
Constipation	Gastrointestinal	Common	Varies; can persist	Increase fiber and water intake
Urinary Frequency/Incontinence	Urinary	Less Common	May persist	Discuss with doctor; pelvic floor exercises may help
Urinary Retention	Urinary	Rare	Requires medical evaluation	Report to doctor immediately
Sexual Dysfunction	Genitourinary / Endocrine	Very Common (up to 75%)	Often persists	Discuss dosage adjustment or alternatives with doctor

Conclusion

Lexapro can cause various bathroom-related side effects, most commonly during the initial treatment phase. Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation are frequent due to the drug's effect on gut serotonin receptors. Urinary changes and sexual dysfunction are also reported. While most digestive issues are temporary, persistent or severe symptoms, including urinary retention or signs of Serotonin Syndrome, warrant medical consultation. Discussing side effects with a doctor is crucial for effective management, which might involve dose adjustments or alternative treatments.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.

Authoritative Link: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) - Escitalopram (Lexapro)

Frequently Asked Questions

Most gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and diarrhea are most common during the first one to two weeks of treatment and typically decrease or resolve as your body continues to adjust to the medication. Sexual side effects, however, often do not diminish over time.

Yes, some users may experience increased urinary frequency or nocturia (waking at night to urinate) as a side effect of Lexapro and other SSRIs.

Both diarrhea and constipation are listed as common side effects. Clinical trial data shows diarrhea may be slightly more common, reported in up to 14% of patients taking a 20mg dose.

Yes, taking Lexapro with food is often recommended to help soothe stomach issues like nausea and indigestion.

Yes, though less common, escitalopram can cause urinary retention or hesitancy. It has been reported as a side effect and, in rare cases, has been linked to acute urinary retention, especially in older men.

Sexual side effects are very common and include delayed ejaculation and erectile dysfunction in men, and difficulty reaching orgasm (anorgasmia) in women. These are caused by the medication's effect on serotonin and other neurotransmitters.

You should not stop taking Lexapro abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms. If you have severe or persistent diarrhea, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, agitation, or confusion, you should contact your doctor immediately as it could be a sign of a more serious condition like Serotonin Syndrome.