Lexapro Long-Term Side Effects
Long-term use of Lexapro may lead to some potential side effects.
These can include:
Weight changes
Some people experience weight gain over time, while others lose weight due to appetite and digestive changes. If weight changes are affecting your health or confidence, your prescriber can help you balance medication benefits with realistic nutrition, sleep, and activity supports.
Sexual dysfunction
Some individuals notice reduced libido, difficulty reaching orgasm, or erectile dysfunction. These effects can feel personal and frustrating, but they are common with SSRIs and worth discussing openly. Your provider may offer strategies like dose adjustments, timing changes, or medication alternatives.
Emotional blunting
Some people describe feeling less emotionally reactive, both to stress and to joy. If you feel flattened or disconnected, tell your provider. Adjusting treatment can often restore emotional range while still protecting mood stability.
Withdrawal symptoms
Stopping Lexapro suddenly can lead to discontinuation symptoms like dizziness, irritability, flu-like feelings, and unusual sensory sensations. A gradual taper under medical guidance reduces risk and is generally safer.
Serotonin syndrome
Serotonin syndrome is rare but potentially life-threatening. Risk increases when Lexapro is combined with other medications or substances that raise serotonin. Symptoms can include confusion, agitation, fever, heavy sweating, tremor, and muscle rigidity. This requires urgent medical evaluation.
Bone health
Some research suggests SSRIs may be associated with a small increase in fracture risk, particularly in older adults or people with osteoporosis risk factors. If you have bone health concerns, falls, or long-term steroid use, ask your clinician whether additional monitoring is appropriate.
