Lexapro for Anxiety User Reviews (Page 2)

• Sugar...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• July 4, 2019

"Lexapro is my miracle drug. The most life-changing medicine I've ever taken. Because of the mild sexual side effects, I'm not on it year-round - even though I should be. I take a small 5 mg dose when I feel my life spinning out of control. Within days, I go from antisocial nervous wreck when I'm off it, to a very rational, confident, and outgoing person when I'm back on it. If you're painfully anxious, negative, and self-loathing (like I find myself sometimes), Lexapro can make you the life of the party - an empathetic, engaged, and caring human being you know you really are deep down inside. I started taking it in my 40s - it would have drastically altered my life if I had started at a younger age. But that's okay, I have it now, and I'm eternally grateful. Don't let the bad reviews dissuade you from trying it - try everything until you find a medicine that works for you. Best of luck - you deserve peace and happiness in your life."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 28, 2019

"Like you, I’ve been reading these reviews over and over again and was just so incredulous that this drug could fix my issues. I had horrific social and generalized anxiety. I was self-conscious of my voice 24/7, would ruin every experience. 24/7 negative self-talk. It was awful. Started with Prozac and had to switch to Lex. Everything took about six weeks to kick in, so be patient. I thought I was hopeless, but I’m laughing, smiling, feel worry slowly dripping away day by day. Social anxiety is lower every day. I feel confident. I feel like who I was meant to be. My best piece of advice is to not obsess about whether or not it’s working. You WILL know when it does, trust me. Maybe Lexapro isn’t for you, if that’s the case, DON'T WORRY you WILL find something that works for you and it will be so worth it. Hang in there and don’t give up!!"

• KareB...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 14, 2023

"I just started Lexapro 2 days ago. The doctor prescribed 10mg, but I am taking 5mg. I have severe reactions to medications which cause a racing heart. The first night I took it, I had no issues. Last night, I didn't sleep at all and had a panic attack/anxiety attack all night. Today, I still have anxiety and a tight chest. Please pray that this works for me. My husband has been paralyzed in an accident, and that's when all this started. I am his main caregiver and working 40 hours a week. It's been overwhelming. I am trying my best to stick to the meds to see if they work."

• Freedom
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• February 23, 2020

"Lexapro saved my life. Prior to starting the medication, my anxiety was severe. I couldn't leave the house and get into a car without a full-blown panic attack - sobbing, nausea, the works. Therapy wasn't cutting it, and neither was meditation or any of the suggestions people threw at me. The first week of Lexapro, the nausea was very intense. But I could feel it changing my brain, and it was such a weird yet hopeful feeling. For three years, I had my life back. I was able to travel and enjoy taking risks without crippling anxiety. At the three-year mark, my Lexapro stopped working. I haven't found a resolution yet, but I hope I can find another alternative that will help me feel the way I have these past few years."

• Tigga
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• January 30, 2017

"I was once you, anxiously reading reviews for Lexapro. I began getting severe anxiety and mild depression, and my doctor recommended 10mg of Lexapro. I have never liked taking drugs, but I felt like it was my only choice. The first 2-3 weeks, my experience worsened. Every side effect you could have, I had. Drowsiness, sleep problems, nausea, vomiting, decreased libido, constant yawning, the list goes on. However, it started to lighten up every week. By Week 6, every side effect was gone. 11 months later and I'm still on 10mg, and I can't explain how much my life has improved over the past year. My life is back. I'm happier than ever and enjoying every aspect of life again. It may be hard at the start, but it's worth it. I believe in you! peace"

• Deebee
• August 22, 2020

"Lexapro has worked great for me in the past, for my panic disorder and anxiety. I start at 5mg dose, do that for 1 week, and then I increase to 10mg dose. I take it at night to avoid daytime drowsiness. I always make sure I eat with it. I take 1 mg of Ativan for the first two weeks on it. All that combined really helps with side effects and anxiety when your brain is trying to get used to it. Hang in there!"

• BUDDY
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 8, 2019

"Lexapro has worked wonders for me with absolutely zero side effects. I have noticed my anxiety attacks and need for Xanax decreased to almost zero since I started this drug. It has almost entirely cured my anxiety and the resulting depression, and I have a zest for life again. I never thought I'd feel like I did in my twenties again. I never realized how much of my symptoms were anxiety and depression. I had narrowed it down to just getting older. I have so much more energy and have Lexapro to thank for this. Everyone reacts differently to every drug, but for me, it has been a miracle."

• Jojo
• November 2, 2019

"Give Lexapro a chance, don’t be scared. It’s amazing how good you will feel. I was sick the first 5 days on 5mg. Got better after that, then I increased after 2 weeks to 10mg, got a little sick again, it’s very normal. I’m now on 4 weeks and I feel amazing. No more anxiety or fears. Please don’t give up and give it a chance. Good luck."

• T Ven
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 20, 2024

"After 7 weeks of using Lexapro, it has FINALLY kicked in!! I was almost going to go back to my doctor to change or see if I needed to up my dosage. For these 7 weeks, my anxiety was definitely helped, but I had been in hermit mode, not wanting to socialize and wanting to be in bed a lot, relaxing which is very unlike myself. As of yesterday, a surge of energy has hit me, and I have been ready to go! I'm so happy, give this medication time! My doctor told me it could take 4-6 weeks for it to work, but as I said, 7 weeks was my duration."

• Kcano
• December 30, 2020

"The first 3-4 weeks are tough. I knew it would take some time, but I felt a bit like a zombie or a sloth those first few weeks. My anxiety fueled me before, and I suddenly had an “I don’t care” attitude about everything. Around week 3, I suddenly felt “CLEAR”. I was able to do things like go into my laundry room and do one load of laundry without feeling overwhelmed by the other 5 loads that needed to be done. My anxiety was an all or nothing situation - I either could do it all at one time or could NEVER get it done in my brain. Lexapro allowed me to realize that it’s ok to do part of a task and finish it later - and helped me remember to finish it later. I feel so much better!"

• BebeC...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 23, 2014

"I waited 2 months to write this because I was convinced it wouldn't work for me. Lexapro WORKS. Stick it out before giving up. I got much worse before I got better. I started at 10 mg and am now at 20 mg. In the beginning, my anxiety and obsessive thoughts got a lot worse, and when I increased my dose it spiked up again. But it finally passed and the difference is huge. I feel like me again, but me without crippling anxiety and constant obsessive thoughts. My periods do make it worse. My side effects of dry mouth, constipation, sleeplessness, heavy sweating are all gone now. And NO sexual issues for me. Oh, and don't be scared of the generic - that's what I take. Hang in there and give it time!"

• dani
• September 20, 2018

"I never had an issue with anxiety until I turned 26. It was like a switch went off in my head, and I had a panic attack that ended up with me in the ER. I had no idea what was happening to me. I didn't want to go on medication because I was ashamed that I couldn't cope by myself. Eventually, I broke down and decided I was going to lose my job, house, and life if I didn't get some help. The first few weeks of Lexapro were horrible, but listen to me when I say to stick with it. I had every side effect in the book and felt like I had the flu for three weeks. I am now on week 10 and have never felt better. I finally feel like my old self again, and I can honestly say that this medicine saved me! I pray for everyone suffering from this disease. Know that you WILL get better. God speed, my friends."

• Optim...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 1, 2019

"Hang in there! I am a woman in my mid-fifties who has developed paralyzing anxiety over the last few years. It got to the point this spring where I couldn't go to work. My doctor prescribed Lexapro. I started at 10 mg, and he increased it to 20 mg after the first week. I had never taken any antidepressants before. It took time, but it does work. Slow improvement. I am on week 9, and I finally feel like my old self. It is so difficult to think you will ever feel better. I know. But, it will get better! It may take time, but hang in there. The Lexapro has made a tremendous difference in the life. I hope it does for you as well."

• hcg
• January 16, 2015

"Taking Lexapro was the best decision I've ever made!! I've struggled with anxiety and depression since I was a kid. I had never taken any medications for it until I was 24. The anxiety had taken over my life. I could barely go to work, and I was up for most of my nights because my mind would be going 100 miles an hour, and I couldn't get my mind to stop racing. I had a lot of social anxiety. Every single little thing would seem like such a huge task or issue. I felt completely exhausted all the time; all I wanted to do was sleep. After about 4 months of being on Lexapro, I can finally say I am the happiest I've ever been! I've even started college, which is something I thought I would never have the courage to do."

• Much...
• January 17, 2021

"Lexapro changed my life for sure! My family has a history of anxiety, so it was not a surprise when I started having severe anxiety and panic attacks. That warm, flush, buzzing feeling that overtakes your body and your mind immediately thinks you're going to die or that you're sick. Your heart is racing and feels like it's going to jump out of your chest, and your head is spinning. It's a feeling I don't wish on anyone, and it was starting to control my life. Once I started Lexapro, I almost immediately noticed positive results. It took about 6 weeks to really notice significant changes and about a year before I would say I was 100% myself. But it very quickly made my life manageable, and now I can't imagine my life without it! I still get breakthroughs now and then where I get a bout of anxiety, but it's usually short-lived and manageable. If you have just started Lexapro, hang in there!"

• Nurse...
• July 31, 2019

"I have been on Lexapro 10mg 3x - most recently was Jan-May and then weaned myself off (under doctor's supervision) over 6 weeks and had no problems with withdrawal. I have recently started back because of recent stress in my life (nasty divorce) which left me worrying constantly, debilitating anxiety, unable to sleep and/or eat. For me it’s the panic that’s horrible. So I started back on Lexapro 10mg 3 weeks ago today. The first 2 weeks were tough... it seemed to take longer to kick in this time and I actually referred to this site a dozen times to reassure myself that it would indeed start to work, and it did! I did have the increased anxiety, loss of appetite (lost 10 lbs in 2 weeks), the “internal shakes”, morning dread, and insomnia for the first 2 weeks. I would say around day 10-14 I started to feel the meds taking the edge off, and by day 18 I had almost no anxiety at all. Literally none. It’s so worth the wait if you can just hang in there through the first few weeks."

• Oran
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 7, 2021

"(Male/24) Initially Lexapro made my anxiety worse, quite significantly. I experienced both anxiety & panic attacks at a greater frequency compared to prior to starting. Despite this, I have continued to take the medication with the hope that this side effect would lessen, despite most of my thoughts begging me to stop this medication. After about 12 days, I felt my body adjusting to the dosage. The last two days I have felt really great, no anxiety or racing heart rate (another initial side effect), no panic attacks and improved mood and enjoyment in things. I wanted to share just in case others are experiencing initial worsening anxiety and are unsure if this improves over time. Although my one experience is anecdotal, I am glad I stuck with it. I experienced headaches, nausea, jitteriness and trouble sleeping the first week as well, those too have gone away. My appetite has improved, and I have had no complications with sexual dysfunction. I hope this helps"

• Just...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 13, 2018

"People!! It takes about 4-6 weeks to work! Don’t write a review when the drug has not settled and begun to give you the therapeutic benefits yet! 2-3 weeks into taking it, I felt rubbish, worst anxiety of my life, then pop, after about 4-5 weeks I feel the best I have felt in YEARS. I feel relaxed, calm, and ready to take on the world, live my life like a normal person. I’ve suffered extremely bad anxiety, stress, and panic attacks for over a decade, finally decided to try regular medication, not just take a Xanax when I feel it coming on. This medication I understand may not work for everyone, but at LEAST if you can, give it 6 weeks and commit to it if you’re going to try it. Changed my life. I will say though, the first month was bad anxiety, headaches, naps in the afternoon, and just horrible. Prescribed Xanax to deal with the side effects for the first few weeks, then once it settles, no side effects, just a calm and peaceful mind. Thank you."

• RHS
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 25, 2014

"Male, 50, about 1 year ago experienced sudden onset of debilitating generalized anxiety disorder. Suffered 3 months trying benzodiazepines, Buspar, Wellbutrin, and Lexapro 10 mg. Settled on Lexapro 20 mg. 100% symptom-free in about 1 month. After 1 year, tapered off about a month ago. ZERO negative side effects from tapering and 100% recovery. I'm not one to suggest a miracle, but this is about as close as it gets."

• User
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 7, 2024

"I'm on week 6 and I read these reviews for encouragement and advice! I was in a terrible phase where my anxiety just got the best of me. One week, I couldn't even complete a full day at school. I started taking Lexapro, the first few days were rough. I was so beyond scared to take the medicine because I am a hypochondriac. I freaked myself out the first few days and almost stopped taking the medicine. But, I am so beyond glad I didn't stop. The first week may get worse before it gets better. However, after a week I noticed it slowing down my thought process and my physical anxiety symptoms. I no longer have panic attacks or shaky hands 24/7, I am way more present in life and overall just enjoying things more. The first few days I had a burning sensation and nausea. Then I would get bad headaches, and I still get tired but I am so much better off!! Try the meds and have hope things will improve. It's not perfect but it makes life better and way more manageable. You got it!"

• Starry
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 5, 2018

"I am back to write an update on my almost 5-month journey on Lexapro. I am feeling great and have a lot of positive things to say. I am starting back nursing school (to specialize in psychiatry, of all things!) this January after quitting due to my mental breakdown. I am back to working full-time. I'm calm and feel mentally able to achieve what I want in my life. The OCD rituals are at a bare minimum now, and the horrible mood swings I had before starting Lexapro have almost completely disappeared. My anxiety and depression once had me homebound, and now I'm leaving my house 4-6 days a week, and I enjoy being out again. I'm 24 and have struggled with mental health problems since the age of 12 and thought I was doomed for life. Your life can turn around for good, so don't give up on yourself. Prayers for you all that you find happiness and live your lives to your fullest potentials. Be blessed."

• LineH
• January 3, 2015

"Lexapro played a very important role in saving my life. After suffering serious anxiety and depression, while going through 6 years of therapy, and only feeling worse, I finally accepted that therapy on its own wasn't working. After a month of using Lexapro, I noticed a significant difference in my quality of life. I liked the change; the experience I had when I was first prescribed glasses when I was younger. I remember putting on glasses for the first time and thinking to myself, 'I had no idea this is what the world looks like!' Everything was so clear and beautiful. That's what everything was like after starting Lexapro- I had no idea that it was even possible to live a life free from constant, sickening anxiety. Life now is beautiful!"

• Hman
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 19, 2014

"During a recent stretch of terrible anxiety which crept up very slowly, I suddenly became incapacitated. I was in fear of everything and I couldn't function - AT ALL. I went to my doctor and explained the symptoms, and he recommended Lexapro 10 mg. with Klonopin 0.5 mg. as needed. I took both medications, and the Klonopin erased all the start-up side effects of the Lexapro such as increased nervousness, insomnia, and poor appetite. As soon as the Lexapro kicked in (about three weeks), I was able to step off the Klonopin and have felt great ever since. Anxiety has been wiped out, and sleep has improved. I feel 100% better. Don't give up, this medication WORKS!"

• final...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 10, 2019

"Been on escitalopram for 8 weeks (51 yo woman). SUPER lethargic week 1 as I went from 5 to 10 mg. Urinary problems in week 2 only. No orgasm in week 3 and still now. Benefits crept up SLOWLY. First was PHYSICAL benefits in week 4: no more adrenaline rushes or heart palpitations and my body just felt really good (libido great despite lack of orgasm). This was huge but still no change in my thinking. Week 7, obsessive thinking and worry subsided noticeably. Start of week 8 it REALLY kicked in. I have clarity, a sense of calm, I smile a lot, I genuinely take time for others, my mind is not racing or jumbled with worry, I am willing to ask for what I want more confidently. Biggest thing: I am no longer on edge AT ALL. Still hoping for benefit to self-esteem & being more outgoing. Dr. will up me to 15 mg for this, but I will wait since I literally see improvement daily & I prefer the lowest dose. I LOVE the change in myself! Patience & paying attention to little improvements is key!"

• Livin...
• February 25, 2014

"I've been on Lexapro for two months now. The first 4 weeks I had very minor side effects. Dry mouth, dilated pupils, etc. VERY minor and only lasted 2 days each. Two months later I can tell you this medication is amazing. I suffered from very periodic anxiety which turned into panic attacks on some occasions. It was always in the back of my mind as to if or when it was going to happen. That's no way to live. I feel focused with clear thought now. I still laugh and feel every emotion... I just don't worry about things like I used to before Lexapro. I'm happier and have a more positive outlook on difficult situations in my life now. I find myself being much more social now too. Miracle medication for sure!"