Pros
Can effectively treat depression and anxiety
Usually only needs to be taken once a day
Fewer side effects than older antidepressants
Generic versions are available, which can be more affordable
- Mental Health
- Depression
Lexapro
Lexapro (escitalopram) prescription available online
With the help of a board-certified online doctor, getting psychiatric care for anxiety and depression has never been more convenient. Contact us today to see if Lexapro could be right for you.*
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*Warning: Antidepressants have affected a small number of people under and up to 24 years of age to have suicidal thoughts during a clinical study. Experts are not sure how much this data should be considered, as the extent of the risk is unknown. Mental health while taking antidepressants can change in unexpected ways. You should call a doctor right away if you experience any suicidal thoughts. Always talk to a doctor about the risks and benefits of taking antidepressant medication before beginning treatment. Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
About Lexapro
Lexapro is a type of antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The generic medication is known as escitalopram. Lexapro is generally well tolerated by most people and has fewer side effects than other antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.
Lexapro is designed to restore the natural balance of serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is a type of neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger, that is responsible for helping regulate your moods.
If the balance of serotonin in your brain is disrupted, it can set you off both mentally, physically, and emotionally. Lexapro works as an SSRI to restore and reset the natural balance of serotonin in your brain. It can help you regulate mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety by keeping your moods balanced.
Lexapro uses
There are many uses for Lexapro (escitalopram), including treatment for mental health and physical conditions. Your online clinician may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your health care provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Major depressive disorder
Lexapro (escitalopram) is FDA approved to treat major depressive disorder. It can help treat depression, by relieving symptoms such as:
Feelings of worthlessness and sadness
Low energy or trouble concentrating
A loss of interest in your usual daily activities
Eat and sleep more or less than usual
Suicidal thoughts
Generalized anxiety disorder
Lexapro can help treat symptoms of anxiety, such as:
Nervous energy that cannot be calmed down
Difficulty concentrating
Trouble sleeping
Overwhelming feelings of worry
Increased blood pressure and heart rate
Post traumatic stress disorder
Lexapro in larger doses has been show to treat symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder. The PTSD symptoms that escitalopram is able to help with can include:
Severe anxiety
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Guilt
Negative thoughts about self and the world
Bipolar disorder
In some cases, Lexapro can be used to treat symptoms of bipolar depression, when used in combination with mood stabilizers. These symptoms can include:
Feelings of hopelessness
Loss of interest in activities
General discontent
Apathy
Other anxiety disorders
Lexapro is also effective in treating anxiety disorders other than generalized anxiety disorder, such as:
Social Anxiety Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Panic Disorder
Chronic pain
Lexapro is sometimes prescribed for chronic pain, and has been shown to reduce pain severity in treated patients.
Migraine
Lexapro can also be prescribed to treat migraines, and has been shown to be effective in prevention of migraines.
What are the pros and cons?
Lexapro
Cons
May cause sexual side effects
May cause weight gain or weight loss
May cause insomnia or extreme tiredness
Stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms
Lexapro side effects
For most people, the side effects of Lexapro are mild. Common side effects may include:
Vivid dreams
Dry mouth or scratchy throat
Loss of appetite
Nausea or diarrhea
Shaking
Sweating
Sexual difficulties
More serious side effects are rare, but may include worsening symptoms of anxiety, extreme mood changes, or suicidal thoughts. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you feel any of these symptoms.
How to take Lexapro
Your prescribing physician will provide you with instructions on how to take your Lexapro prescription based on your current conditions and medical history. This medication usually comes in the form of a tablet.
General instructions may include:
Lexapro may be taken either with or without food.
Your dose can be taken in the morning or the evening.
For treating depression, a starting dose for an adult will typically be 10 mg once daily and may be increased to 20 mg once daily after three weeks.
For generalized anxiety disorder, the recommended starting dose is 10 mg once a day.
Your physician may increase the dose gradually as they monitor your symptoms. It is important that you keep in mind that the full benefits of Lexapro may take up to four weeks after beginning treatment to take effect. It is also important to note that you should not stop taking Lexapro without speaking to your doctor first, even if you feel better and you think you don’t need the medication anymore.
If you stop taking Lexapro abruptly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms that include:
Nausea
Dizziness
Irritability
Headache
Nightmares
Tingling sensations on your skin
Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
What to avoid while taking Lexapro
You should notify your doctor if you plan on getting pregnant before or while taking Lexapro. There are risks and benefits in taking antidepressants while pregnant.
SSRIs like Lexapro can sometimes interact with other medications. You should tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including any vitamins and supplements. Medical conditions can also change the way these medications work on your body.
Talk to your doctor about your options if you have any of the following conditions:
Heart problems
Kidney problems
Liver problems
Bleeding problems
History of heart attack
Seizure disorders
Low levels of sodium
Bipolar disorder
Alternative medications to Lexapro
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another SSRI or one of the antidepressants online in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD
Other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Zoloft (sertraline), Prozac (fluoxetine), and Pristiq
An NDRI such as Wellbutrin
Bipolar disorder
Drugs with antidepressant effects helpful for bipolar treatment include:
Seroquel (quetiapine)
Zyprexa (olanzapine) in combination with Prozac (fluoxetine)
Latuda (lurasidone)
Lexapro prescription FAQs
How much does Lexapro cost?
The cost of Lexapro can vary based on your insurance coverage. If you opt for the generic alternative, you can get the prescription medication for as low as $3.
To request a Lexapro prescription online, simply book an appointment with one of our doctors. After an evaluation, one of our doctors can electronically send a Lexapro prescription to your nearest pharmacy, if you qualify.Does Lexapro cause weight gain?
It is possible for Lexapro to cause weight gain. However, it is also possible for Lexapro to cause weight loss. If weight gain is a concern to you, talk to your doctor to monitor the effects of the prescription medication.
How long does it take for Lexapro to work?
Lexapro can take 4-6 weeks to become completely effective. For this reason, it is recommended that you wait 4 weeks before stopping or trying another medication.
Does Lexapro make you tired?
Lexapro can make you feel tired or fatigued. The fatigue can get better over time with the continued use of escitalopram. If you experience this side effect, contact your healthcare provider for solutions or medication alternatives.
Can you drink on Lexapro?
When taken together, Lexapro and alcohol can result in severe combined side effects, such as loss of coordination and alertness, drowsiness, and increased depressive symptoms. For these reasons, it is not recommended to combine escitalopram and alcohol.
Can you take Lexapro while pregnant?
You should ask your doctor whether Lexapro is suitable for you to take while pregnant. It is possible that you may be able to continue to take Lexapro while pregnant, although there might be a risk of complications. This recommendation varies on a personal basis, so it is essential to consult your physician to find the best treatment plan for you.
How can I refill my prescription for Lexapro?
Our doctors can easily refill your Lexapro prescription online. Book an appointment, and our doctors will evaluate you. They can electronically send the prescription medication to the nearest pharmacy if you qualify.
Who should not take Lexapro?
You should notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking Lexapro, and they will be able to recommend the best treatment plan. Lexapro can also interact with other prescription and non prescription medications, so it is important to tell your doctor all medications you are taking, including vitamins and supplements.
It is important to tell your doctor about any serious conditions before beginning Lexapro. If you have heart problems, liver problems, kidney problems, bleeding problems, low levels of sodium, or bipolar disorder, make sure to tell your doctor so they can recommend the appropriate treatment plan for you.What happens if I miss a Lexapro dose?
If you miss a dose of Lexapro, take it as soon as you realize that you have missed it. However, if your missed dose is close to your next dose, simply skip it and continue your schedule. Do not take two doses close together.
Can you overdose on Lexapro?
Yes, an overdose on Lexapro can be fatal. An overdose on escitalopram can possibly cause extremely low heart rate and blood pressure, as well as the possibility of serotonin syndrome, a life-threatening condition. If you take too much Lexapro, call poison control at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. You should not take double doses or more Lexapro than is prescribed. If someone has taken too much Lexapro and they have trouble breathing, collapse, or have a seizure, call 911 immediately for medical help.
3 simple steps to request your Lexapro prescription online
Step 1
Book a Lexapro prescription request appointment.
Book a same-day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Lexapro prescription.
Visit a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up Lexapro.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Lexapro prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Lexapro prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
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For all visits
30 days of free membership
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Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
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Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
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If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Mayo Clinic. Escitalopram (Oral Route): Description. Accessed on October 10, 2023 at https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/escitalopram-oral-route/description/drg-20063707.
AbbVie Inc. LEXAPRO® (escitalopram oxalate) Prescribing Information. Accessed on October 10, 2023 at https://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/lexapro_pi.pdf.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Lexapro Highlights of Prescribing Information. Accessed on October 10, 2023 at https://www.fda.gov/media/135185/download.