Lexapro is a prescription antidepressant that is commonly prescribed to improve symptoms of depression in adolescents and young adults. Lexapro can also be used to treat generalized anxiety disorder in adults. Lexapro works similarly to other antidepressants such as Prozac and Zoloft. While the side effects of Lexapro are usually mild, they should be considered before starting treatment.
Sleep Problems
Antidepressants such as Lexapro can lead to a number of sleep abnormalities. Drugs.com explains that Lexapro causes a reduction in rapid eye movement, or REM sleep. About 15 percent of Lexapro users will report symptoms of insomnia while 11 percent will experience increased drowsiness.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a relatively common side effect of Lexapro, effecting about 5 percent of Lexapro users according to Drugs.com. Symptoms of fatigue may manifest as flu-like symptoms that will also impact about 5 percent of people using Lexapro. Such symptoms include general muscle pain, general weakness and loss of appetite. Up to 25 percent of Lexapro patients will also experience headaches as a side effect of Lexapro use. These side effects of Lexapro are dose dependent and occur more often with higher dosages of Lexapro.
Sexual Dysfunction
Lexapro, like many other antidepressants can negatively impact many aspects of sexual function. Lexapro use is associated with decreased libido in about 4 percent of male patients. Drugs.com also reports that about 9 percent of male Lexapro users will experience ejaculatory problems and 3 percent will have impotence. Sexual side effects in women listed by Lexapro.com include inability to have orgasm as well as decreased libido.
Changes in Heart Rhythm
Drugs.com and Mayo Clinic explain that Lexapro use may lead to hypertension or high blood pressure. These changes in blood pressure may affect normal heart rhythms, leading to palpitations, arrhythmia and increased heart rate. Other cardiac side effects such as myocardial infarction have been infrequently reported.
Rash
Skin rashes occur frequently with Lexapro use, according to Drugs.com. Other skin-related side effects occur rarely; they include acne, eczema, dry skin and dermatitis.
Nausea and Upset Stomach
Nausea and vomiting can occur in up to 15 percent of people taking Lexapro. Healthsquare.com lists other common gastrointestinal side effects including upset stomach, increased gas, bloating, heartburn and abdominal cramping.
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