Lexapro is one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants in the United States. It helps millions of people manage depression, anxiety and related mental health conditions. However, even medications designed to improve emotional well-being can be misused.
If you have been taking Lexapro for a long time and find yourself increasing your dose, mixing it with other substances or feeling unable to function without it, you’re not alone — and help is available.
A Lexapro addiction hotline can connect you with compassionate professionals who understand how antidepressant misuse and dependence happen. By calling the National Rehab Hotline, you can explore treatment options in your area, get support for Lexapro withdrawal symptoms and begin rebuilding a healthier, more stable life.
What Is Lexapro?
Lexapro, the brand name for escitalopram, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic attacks.
SSRIs work by increasing levels of serotonin — a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep and emotional balance — in the brain. When taken as prescribed, Lexapro can be highly effective. But when misused, it can cause harmful side effects, withdrawal symptoms and dependence.
Can You Become Addicted to Lexapro?
Lexapro doesn’t create the euphoric “high” associated with drugs like opioids or stimulants, but misuse and psychological dependence can still occur. Over time, your brain can adapt to the medication, making you feel you need more to achieve the same emotional stability.
A study by the National Library of Medicine found that about 23% of people taking Lexapro for more than 12 months develop some form of dependence. While addiction to SSRIs is often psychological rather than physical, the effects can still disrupt daily life.
People may misuse Lexapro by:
- Increasing their dosage without medical approval
- Mixing it with alcohol or other substances to enhance or counteract its effects
- Continuing to take it after the prescribed period ends
- Using it to self-medicate for stress or mood issues without a diagnosis
The Dangers of Lexapro Misuse
While Lexapro is generally safe under medical supervision, abusing it or taking higher-than-prescribed doses can lead to serious health problems.
Serotonin Syndrome
Too much serotonin can be life-threatening. Symptoms include rapid heart rate, confusion, high blood pressure, excessive sweating and in severe cases, seizures.
Suicidal Thoughts
Misuse of Lexapro may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors, particularly in children, teens and young adults.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Stopping Lexapro abruptly can cause discontinuation syndrome, a set of withdrawal-like symptoms that occur as the body adjusts to the absence of the drug.
Cardiovascular Problems
High doses or overdoses can cause blood pressure fluctuations, irregular heartbeat or cardiac arrest.
Cognitive and Motor Impairment
Large doses can cause confusion, slowed reaction times, poor coordination and other signs of neurological impairment.
Mania or Hypomania
People with bipolar disorder may experience manic episodes when misusing antidepressants.
Increased Bleeding Risk
Lexapro and other SSRIs can raise the risk of internal bleeding, especially in the gastrointestinal tract.
If you’re experiencing any of these effects, it’s important to seek help right away. A Lexapro addiction hotline can connect you with professionals who can evaluate your symptoms and guide you toward safe treatment options.
Lexapro Withdrawal Symptoms
When you reduce or stop taking Lexapro suddenly, your brain must readjust to lower serotonin levels. This process can cause uncomfortable or even alarming withdrawal symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Excessive sweating
- Disturbing dreams or insomnia
- Tremors or shaking
- Vomiting and nausea
- Irritability and agitation
- Confusion or disorientation
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Return of depression or anxiety symptoms
The severity and duration of these symptoms vary from person to person. Withdrawal can last days or weeks, depending on dosage and length of use. It’s never recommended to quit Lexapro abruptly — tapering under medical supervision is the safest approach.
Managing Lexapro Withdrawal Safely
Lexapro withdrawal isn’t usually life-threatening but can be emotionally draining and physically uncomfortable. Medical supervision makes the process safer and easier to manage.
Tips for a safer withdrawal process include:
- Consult your doctor. Never stop or adjust your dose without professional guidance.
- Taper gradually. A doctor can help reduce your dosage in small, manageable steps.
- Stay hydrated and rest. Fatigue, dizziness and dehydration are common during withdrawal.
- Seek emotional support. Counseling, therapy and support groups can help manage mood changes.
- Avoid mixing substances. Using alcohol or other medications can worsen symptoms or trigger dangerous reactions.
If you’re struggling with withdrawal symptoms, calling a hotline or entering a treatment program can help you manage the process safely and comfortably.
Treatment Options for Lexapro Abuse
Although Lexapro isn’t classified as a traditionally addictive drug, misuse can still lead to dependence that requires professional treatment. Comprehensive rehab programs combine medical, psychological and holistic therapies to address both the misuse and the underlying mental health challenges that led to it.
Common treatment options include:
- Medical detox. Safely adjusting to being off Lexapro while withdrawal symptoms are managed under medical supervision
- Inpatient rehab. Offers structure, 24-7 support and therapy for people with severe dependence or co-occurring conditions
- Outpatient treatment. Allows individuals to continue daily life while attending scheduled therapy sessions
- Therapy and counseling. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy and motivational enhancement therapy to help reframe negative thought patterns and support recovery
- Support groups. Programs like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) to provide a community for those recovering from substance misuse
When to Call a Lexapro Addiction Hotline
It can be hard to know when it’s time to reach out for professional help. Call the National Rehab Hotline if:
- You’re taking higher doses of Lexapro than prescribed.
- You’ve mixed Lexapro with alcohol, stimulants or other medications.
- You’ve experienced withdrawal symptoms when missing a dose.
- You’re struggling with emotional instability or suicidal thoughts.
- You’ve tried to quit, but symptoms became unbearable.
Hotline counselors can help you understand your symptoms, find local treatment programs and connect you to care that fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Lexapro Addictive?
While Lexapro isn’t considered physically addictive like opioids or benzodiazepines, it can cause psychological dependence and withdrawal symptoms when stopped suddenly. - Can I Stop Taking Lexapro on My Own?
No. Stopping Lexapro without tapering can cause severe discontinuation symptoms. Always consult a doctor before making changes. - How Long Does Lexapro Withdrawal Last?
Most symptoms improve within a few weeks, but some people experience lingering effects. Gradual tapering helps reduce severity. - What If I Mixed Lexapro With Alcohol or Drugs?
Mixing Lexapro with other substances increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, heart issues and overdose. Call a hotline immediately for help.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If Lexapro — or any prescription medication — has started to take control of your life, it’s time to reach out. The National Rehab Hotline offers free, confidential support 24 hours a day. When you call, you’ll speak with someone who understands what you’re going through and can help you find a treatment program that meets your needs.
You don’t have to face withdrawal, dependence or fear alone. Healing starts with one step — and one phone call.