What is Lexapro?
Lexapro, generic escitalopram, is classed as an SSRI. That means it interferes with the transmission of a chemical called serotonin. When serotonin is blocked from re-uptake it is temporarily activated. This is the “chemical imbalance theory” that sold SSRIs to the FDA and the rest of the world.7 The drug ads tell you that SSRIs increase serotonin levels in the brain, and this is therapeutic for depression, anxiety, and other unwanted mental health symptoms.
However, it’s a short-sighted view. SSRIs spend available serotonin, and do not create more of it. Just like taking money out of your bank account, this results in a deficit. This may explain why your drug “stops working” after a time. You’re stepping on the accelerator, but the gas tank eventually empties. And the chemical imbalance theory has not actually been clinically proven.6
There can be many causes for depression and other mental health symptoms. Alternative treatments that don’t involve drugs might be the superior route to improvements, and additionally, have been found helpful to ease the discomforts of Lexapro withdrawal without the need for substitute or multiple prescription drugs.
What is Lexapro Prescribed to Treat?
According to the label, Lexapro is approved by the FDA to treat major depressive disorder, and general anxiety disorder. SSRIs are the most frequently prescribed of all medications for off-label reasons.8,9 Off-label uses include eating disorders, premature ejaculation, PMS, menopause-related hot flashes, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and numerous others. In fact, nothing prevents a prescriber from recommending SSRIs for anything at all.
Does Lexapro Cause Any Side Effects?
A side effect actually means an incidental, or indirect effect. Some would argue that Lexapro side effects would be more accurately described as direct effects. Nonetheless, the consensus is that yes, Lexapro causes side effects.
Side effects of Lexapro can include:
- Suicidality
- Seizure
- Mania
- Increase risk of bleeding
- Cognitive and motor skill impairment
- Eye disorders
- Hyponatremia (low sodium plasma levels)
- Chemical-driven liver damage
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Sexual dysfunction
- Weight gain
- Dry mouth
Side effects can be mild or severe, making a person desire to opt for weaning off Lexapro for relief. Please remember that abrupt Lexapro withdrawal is NOT recommended, except in the case of medical emergency.
The Importance of Gradual Lexapro Tapering
Managing Lexapro withdrawal symptoms is best done with a gradual, controlled and monitored taper process. Work with a professional who can guide you with specific tapering guidelines for Lexapro. If a person tries to wean off Lexapro too quickly, the withdrawals can become unmanageable, and can last for months and even years if not properly managed.
Supportive Therapies, Drug-free Alternatives to Lexapro
Before, during, and after Lexapro withdrawal, many drug-free therapies can help. Discovering root causes for the original troublesome symptoms is a very good place to start. Since we know nutritional factors play an important role in mental health, lab testing for deficiencies is a key example. There is also a direct association between toxic accumulations over a lifetime, and unwanted symptoms like depression. Neurotoxins can and need to be be removed for relief.
Other examples of drug-free alternatives to Lexapro to explore can include:
CBT, EMDR, Equine therapy, and other types of psychological therapy- Meditation, practicing mindfulness, sound healing, relaxation exercises, therapeutic massage, acupuncture
- Upgrade the diet, including nutritional supplements like Omega-3s, hydration, omit sugars and refined carbs
- Clear out toxic substances from the home and workplace
- Promote gut health with fermented foods, probiotics, cleansing, proper diet
- Physical exercise: walking, swimming, yoga, Qigong, etc.
- Lifestyle changes, de-stress the workspace, get help to solve logistical problems
- Improve sleep hygiene
A thorough and broad study of alternative Lexapro treatments would be a fascinating and worthwhile study even though the subject is not well-promoted in mainstream medicine — but is a potential goldmine for relief.10-12
Alternative to Meds Center Offers Safe, Comfortable Lexapro Withdrawal
The center is located in a serene setting, nestled at the foot of the majestic Red Rocks in Sedona Arizona. Sedona is a world-renowned hub for health enthusiasts, and makes a perfect spot for natural healing. With a staff of over 40 dedicated professionals, each client receives the best in care and compassionate guidance on their wellness journey.
Please call us for more specific details on costs, insurance coverage, length of program, and what a typical day in residence looks like. Ours is a world-class orthomolecular-medicine-based program with undisputable success for our clients. Call us today and find our more about Lexapro withdrawal and drug-free Lexapro alternative treatments for you or your loved one at Alternative to Meds Center.
One might think that the more SSRIs and other antidepressant drugs come on the market, and the more people start to use them, there would be an overall improvement in mental health. The first SSRIs were launched in the 1980s, followed by a parade of new-improved, faster-acting, “better”, and “novel” antidepressants each year.15-17 Not to further depress the reader, NIMH statistics show that such improvements in mental health have NOT occurred. Statistics available for SSRI use from 2015 – 2022, show a rising # of prescriptions and a rising number of consumers for each successive year.12-14
