Skip to main content

Lexapro for Depression User Reviews (Page 4)

Lexapro has an average rating of 7.2 out of 10 from a total of 576 reviews for the treatment of Depression. 63% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 18% reported a negative experience.

Reviews for Lexapro

  • Purpl...
  • Taken for 5 to 10 years
  • December 4, 2012

"After trying numerous SSRIs and mood stabilizers and ready to give up, I tried Lexapro. It was new and just on the market. I love it. It has completely turned me around. I'm normal again. It's good for anxiety too. No bad side effects. No weight gain. It's wonderful to have finally found a medicine that actually works. I hope it never stops working."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
141 Report
  • Jay
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • March 8, 2020

"I was on Lexapro for the last 3 years due to depression. I felt much better at first, but absolutely hate the side effects. It cut my sex drive way down and made me lose muscle/weight, no matter how hard I worked out. The withdrawal symptoms are not fun, but after weaning myself off it, I feel so much better with my normal energy and libido back."

3 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
69 Report
  • Soccer...
  • March 28, 2019

"I first started Lexapro on 1/10/19 with a small dosage of 5 mg. Every 4 weeks, I’d follow up with my doctor to see if an increase should be made. The current date is 3/28/19, and I’m on 20 mg. My experience with it has been wonderful. I suffered from severe depression, OCD, and anxiety. Because of my depression, I’d have mood swings, and everything irritated me. I started on Prozac, which is wonderful for anxiety, but the vivid dreams were so intense that I asked to be removed from them. Now on Lexapro, I still dream every day, but they are tolerable dreams. Depression is no joke, folks. Please keep in mind that what worked for me may not work for you and vice versa. Find something that works for you! I thank Lexapro for making me feel normal again."

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
79 Report

Frequently asked questions

  • Eutuxia
  • February 17, 2015

"I was prescribed Lexapro for depression, 10mg/day. I have been suffering from depression for nearly 2 years now, and I finally forced myself to seek medical help. I'm only on day 3, but I can honestly notice a slight positive change already. Days 1 & 2 have been a bit difficult; uncontrollable yawning, fatigued, and a bit nauseated. But today, day 3, it feels like a light switched on in my brain! That light is at the end of the tunnel, meaning I have to give a little more time. If you are truly depressed, this medicine will help you."

7 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
120 Report
  • Anonymous
  • June 21, 2008

"I am 60 years old and have suffered chronically from depression and anxiety. After alcohol stopped doing the trick 25 years ago, I started a long journey with antidepressants. Imipramine was very effective but had very unpleasant side effects. Over time, I have taken Paxil, Effexor, Celexa, and then a few years ago Lexapro (20 mg). While all of them were helpful, Lexapro has been a miracle - I often forget I have the disease."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
176 Report

Are you taking this medicine?

  • Hla
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • July 22, 2016

"I started taking Lexapro about 7 weeks ago after an extremely traumatic unexpected loss of my long-term boyfriend, who I lived with. I was not functioning or able to deal with life before I got on Lexapro. I couldn't stop overwhelming thoughts, anxiety, crying. I couldn't face life. Lexapro has helped me begin the process of healing in a healthy way and resume life. I don't feel any different other than I have rational thoughts and I am in control of my emotions. I know I would not be moving forward in a positive manner if it wasn't for this medication. The change was like day and night, and I am thankful."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
105 Report
  • Mother...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • October 28, 2015

"I just wanted to post my experience with Lexapro. I have been on it for about four weeks, and it has changed my life for the best. Before I got prescribed this medicine, I was going to bed crying and waking up crying. Couldn't keep up with my mother duties because I was scared I was going to die and was having horrible panic attacks. I have not had any panic attacks since the end of the first week, and I have not had the nausea feeling since week three, so I am doing way better. Didn't really have any other side effects from the medicine. I can't wait to see my doctor so I can thank her for saving me from anxiety and depression."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
112 Report

More FAQ

  • Shayy...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • August 9, 2015

"I just started this medicine 3 days ago and I cannot express how much of an effect it has had on me already. I just graduated high school and became depressed soon after, severe anxiety where I couldn't go out to eat without having to vomit. I also couldn't keep focus on anything, especially when trying to talk to people, and overall was in the worst state of my life. Thought I was hopefully, constantly having break downs, etc. the doctor prescribed this medicine to me a few months before graduation due to anxiety and overall not feeling myself, I was definitely skeptical and taking medicine in my eyes was a sign of weakness so, I put off the treatment hoping I could cure myself out of this funk. I went to ct and it helped but it was mainly focused on anxiety. I stopped going because it seemed a waste of my time. Graduation rolls around, my best friend leaves for college really early and my life falls apart. A week was about all I could take of the constant emptiness, headaches, and nausea I got from being so depressed so I decided to start Lexapro. The doctor prescribed me 10 mg and the first day I took it (in the morning) I was in a state of euphoria. Just a little background on myself, I was never that outgoing but constantly happy. Never the one to be outgoing in front of strangers and was very conscious of people around me. Not on this pill. I was loopy, could not stop laughing and would not shut up. Although this was great, it did not feel normal and I had very bad dizziness and insomnia that night as the drug began to wear off. But I wasn't laying in bed miserably like I did countless nights before, I kind of sat there with a smile so it was actually kind of creepy. That morning I called my physician and asked if this was a normal or okay reaction considering I've been told you shouldn't feel anything for 4-6 weeks. He mentioned that it was 'weird' that I had this response but it was a negative one. He recommended I cut my dosage in half and stick with taking 5 kg a day since the 10 obviously overtook my body. Within hours of hanging up I popped half a tablet and can honestly say I felt happy without many side effects. I continued this the following day and my relationship with my boyfriend, family, and friends has greatly improved, I sleep better, I can laugh and actually mean it and I can go in public places without constantly being self-conscious. I've heard it can have bad results in week 1 and 2 but after taking this medicine for only 3 days, whether it's the placebo effect or not, has saved me and helped me to return to my normal self."

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
114 Report
  • Trixie
  • August 7, 2012

"I am a 53-year-old female. I fell into a deep depression 1 year ago. I couldn't sleep or eat, had severe anxiety, and almost couldn't function at all. I had feelings of hopelessness, even felt suicidal at times. I was frightened. My psychiatrist tried several medicines. I am VERY sensitive to medication. Celebrex and Celexa made me sick. I tried 5 mg of Lexapro. I felt jittery and a little nauseous but stuck with it. After 2 weeks, I went up to 10 mg. After 4-5 weeks, I started to feel normal again. The side effects got better. My sex drive is fine, and I haven't experienced weight gain. It's been a year, and we are thinking about weaning me off in a couple of months. I am so happy I stuck with Lexapro. It saved my life. Don't give up."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
141 Report
  • Dalla...
  • July 19, 2014

"I was diagnosed with Diverticulitis a few months back and ended up having to return to the doctor within a month of diagnosis for the same thing. He seemed baffled as he said I shouldn't have had another attack so soon! I had been having some major anxiety so I asked him if this could be the cause and he agreed. He decided to put me on 10 mg of Lexapro and to be honest, I wasn't expecting much. I had been on Zoloft, Paxil, and Cymbalta with almost no difference. I took the first pill before going to bed that night and woke up in the morning ready to run a marathon! I finally feel happy, hopeful, almost no anxiety, I can speak my mind now when before I was too scared etc., etc... LOVE IT!"

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
123 Report
  • KSano
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • January 24, 2019

"Lexapro has changed my life for the better. I first started Lexapro in September of 2018 after consulting with my MD about severe PMS symptoms, including short temper and feelings of disgust towards my significant other. I never expected it to improve my day-to-day life. Since I've been on Lexapro, my PMS issue has been completely resolved, and I'm a generally happier person. My co-workers, who don't know I've started taking Lexapro, have told me that I'm more approachable, and I even got employee of the quarter! That's NEVER happened before! The only noticeable side effect I had was a decreased libido, but it was short-lived. With less anger and no more 'divorce or death' PMS feelings, my sex life is as good if not better than ever! Medications work differently from individual to individual, but for me, Lexapro is a lifesaver!"

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
79 Report
  • Aussi...
  • December 28, 2015

"I was very skeptical about going on medication, and I was really against it, but after a big breakdown and not seeing the light, I took Lexapro. I kept reading the reviews daily for hope as it took a long time for the medication to kick in. Please give it 8 to 10 weeks! Now thoughts that would upset me just don't. It helps to lift the heavy fog and help you to live a normal life again. I still have anxiety at times, but I am slowly improving, and it is helping. Thank you Lexapro, you really are a miracle. Don't give up, guys!"

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
109 Report
  • poopm...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • November 13, 2019

"This drug is terrible. Does not help depression. Causes depression. Worsens depression. Can cause really dark thoughts, feelings, and more. Doesn't do anything helpful. Makes things worse. Do not take!"

Was this helpful?YesNo
70 Report
  • Dgonz...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • July 3, 2024

"Second time on Lexapro (escitalopram). First time 5 years ago (2019), it worked within 12 weeks for my GAD. Quit cold turkey after 2 years with ZERO side effects. Back on it for depression. It’s been 4 weeks now, and I can see it’s helping with the depression. But the side effects were so severe I ended up in the ER twice. Extreme panic attacks (never had one before in my life), my body felt like it was vibrating for a week, weak, no appetite, adrenaline rushes. So I got on for depression, but now I have anxiety. Dr. had to prescribe Klonopin twice a day to help me sleep and relax. I’m not sure where this is going, but I’m gonna keep fighting. Anxiety is starting to subside, but now I have a fear of panic attacks. So I don’t know. I’ll update again. Just take the benzo if you need it in the beginning if you have side effects so they don’t traumatize you like they did me."

5 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
7 Report
  • It...
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • August 28, 2013

"I am 47 and have suffered from bouts of depression all my life, but about 2 years ago, I was hit with depression and panic attacks so severe, I literally wanted to die. I tried a few medications that didn't work, and then Lexapro at 10mg. At first, I was very disappointed because it didn't help, even after about 3 weeks. Then it was increased to 20mg, and I swear within about 3 days, I felt like a new person. I have been on it for about 2 years. At times, I have tried decreasing back to 10mg, but I end up with the same severe depression/anxiety symptoms. So, I will be staying on 20mg. Thank you for making something like Lexapro available to me."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
125 Report
  • Thanks...
  • August 28, 2016

"This pill cleared up so many of my mental and physical symptoms that it's difficult to list them all. Gone are the black-and-white thinking, the ceaseless pain of existing, the social anxiety, irrational and confused thoughts, inability to truly engage with the world, hopelessness, blank future, exhaustion no matter how much I sleep, procrastination, and psychic agony that only self-harm could alleviate. Not only can I hold an extended conversation with someone, I'm also able to appreciate this improvement in my life instead of feeling like it doesn't matter. Unfortunately, my libido is also gone. Since it was low to begin with, I don't miss it too much, but one day I'd like to know what having a libido is like. Wellbutrin, perhaps?"

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
98 Report
  • Jhjhj...
  • January 3, 2014

"I'm 30 years old, have been suffering from depression on and off for years. This year, I came down with a hard case of Seasonal Affective Disorder, which rendered me a useless ball of fear every day from the afternoon onward and eventually led to other problems (digestion, neurological, and otherwise). My doctor prescribed 10mg escitalopram. Goodness, I wasn't expecting much, but I feel absolutely fantastic now. I'm happy and can focus on daily activities, even in the dark winter evenings. Also, I've been on it for almost 2 months now, and I haven't noticed any side effects! No digestive or sexual problems which seem to be not-so-rarely reported."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
121 Report
  • JustMe
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • May 4, 2020

"I have had a terrible experience on Lexapro. I was having hormonal issues after a possible miscarriage, and I was prescribed Lexapro when I cried in the doctor's office. I have never been on birth control, so this is the “first” thing my body has taken in (regularly). I am 21. Being on this medication makes me overheat VERY easily, and I now have red blemishes on my cheeks 24/7. I get sick often, and my bad days are bad. And I mean bad, I was not like this previously, but I do not see a difference, and I felt like I was doing better on my own."

2 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
61 Report
  • Eliza...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 30, 2018

"I lost my mom when I was 24 years old. Five years later, my dad passed away too. I thought I was fine, but I really was not. Going forward, I hate that I did not take this medicine sooner. I used to get agitated about the smallest things. I was also always tired, and I could sleep all day if allowed. I finally did some homework on this medicine and set a doctor's appointment. I take 20 mg, and I am so grateful to have my life back. It is worth a try."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
75 Report
  • Got...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • December 15, 2016

"After the death of one of my relative, my whole world changed. I thought it was due to my emotional nature. I started having panic attacks, lack of interest, unusual feeling of fear, lack of appetite, was not able to look after myself or my family. I thought that I was going to die. It was all unbearable. But believe me, Lexapro is really great. After 8 weeks, I started feeling my normal self. Mild side effects: yawning, tiredness. But it may be due to my illness rather than the medicine effect. After taking this medicine, I got my strength back. It has saved my life. Just give it a try and hang on there for at least 2 months. It can really save your life too."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
91 Report
  • Depre...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • March 3, 2020

"I suffer from depression and anxiety. My doctor put me on 10 mg of Lexapro. My depression didn't feel as intense as it would, but it did not help my anxiety. I would feel really dreamy when I would go out, it made my anxiety worse. I stopped using it after 3 weeks."

6 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
61 Report
  • Anonymous
  • July 9, 2016

"I was prescribed Lexapro 5 mg for perimenopausal rages and major depressive disorder. Considering this is my first antidepressant, I cautiously started with half a tablet (2.5 mg). The side effects were horrible: severe dizziness, headaches, nausea, and confusion. I could not function at work. Over time, my depression, angry outbursts, rumination worsened and started to affect my interaction with coworkers. I decided to give Lexapro another try and start with 1/4 of a tablet (1.25 mg). I took the Lexapro at bedtime, and in the morning, I was the happiest I've been in months, no anxiety, no negative repetitive thoughts. This is a strong drug. My recommendation is to start slowly to avoid severe side effects and then increase if needed."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
94 Report
  • Jeanne
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • May 26, 2023

"I started with Lexapro 5mg about 3 weeks ago. I was really tired the first week. By 2 weeks in, I began to feel the medicine jump-starting me back to life. It’s wild and refreshing. I can hardly believe it myself. If you’re reading this, I’d encourage you to give it a try. I hope it works for you!"

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
24 Report
  • Grim
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • September 26, 2020

"Overall, Lexapro has been very helpful in treating my MDD and GAD. It has lowered my anxiety substantially and helped me cope with depression. While it has left me with severe insomnia, I would take that over MDD and GAD anytime."

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
54 Report
  • Kody...
  • November 27, 2014

"I dealt with anxiety and depression for several years. I had high social anxiety and found pleasure in isolation and darkness. I started on one SSRI, but the side effects turned me into another person completely. I experienced emotional, spiritual, and creative numbness, weight gain, and overconfidence. So I got off of it because I wasn't myself anymore. I tapered off of that, and then I got on Lexapro, and it immediately took care of my depressive symptoms and anxiety. I bumped up to 20mg after a couple of months, and I am perfectly back to normal. I feel like myself. No side effects at all! I highly recommend Lexapro. Just be patient and wait it out."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
103 Report

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.