Anxiety can be overwhelming, affecting every aspect of life. Luckily, medications like Lexapro® can provide much-needed relief for those dealing with anxiety disorders. However, one common question people ask is: “What is the best time to take Lexapro for anxiety?” Understanding how Lexapro works, when to take it, and what to do if you miss a dose can help you manage your anxiety more effectively.
In this blog, we’ll provide a comprehensive look into these topics and offer some general guidance for anyone considering Lexapro as part of their treatment.
What is Lexapro®?
Lexapro®, whose generic name is escitalopram, is a prescription drug often prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and depression. It is part of a category of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs function by elevating the amount of serotonin, a brain neurotransmitter that aids in controlling mood, emotions, and anxiety. Lexapro can enhance mood and relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression by boosting serotonin levels.
A lot of individuals discover that Lexapro is successful in managing their anxiety symptoms by stabilizing serotonin levels in the brain, which aids in controlling mood and fostering a feeling of relaxation. Lexapro is commonly recommended for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as well as other anxiety-related disorders.
Although Lexapro can be utilized to address anxiety, it is not a complete solution for anxiety disorders. It is intended to be integrated into a comprehensive mental health strategy that could involve therapy, lifestyle modifications, and additional medications.
How Do I Determine the Correct Dosage and Strength of Lexapro?
Finding the correct dosage of Lexapro is essential for reaching the intended outcome and reducing potential side effects. Lexapro is offered in tablet and liquid forms with various strengths from 5 to 20 mg. Most adults usually begin with a 10 mg daily dose, although some may start with less and raise it based on their body’s response to the medication.
Individuals with liver issues should not exceed the recommended daily dose of 10 mg. For individuals who favor liquid medicine, it’s important to understand that 1 mg of liquid Lexapro equals 1 drop, meaning that 10 mg of the medication would require ten drops.
The correct dosage should always be determined in collaboration with a healthcare professional. Your doctor will consider factors such as age, medical history, liver function, and response to the medication. They will also track your progress to see if any changes are necessary.
What Is the Best Time to Take Lexapro for Anxiety?
The question of the best time to take Lexapro for anxiety relief depends largely on your lifestyle and how your body responds to the medication. Fortunately, Lexapro is a flexible medication that can be taken any time as long as you stick to the same time each day.
Here are a few considerations to help you decide when to take it:
- Morning: For people who experience insomnia or sleep disturbances, taking Lexapro in the morning is often recommended. Since Lexapro can cause restlessness or interfere with sleep for some users, taking it in the morning may help avoid these side effects and improve sleep quality.
- Evening: Some people find that Lexapro makes them feel drowsy or fatigued. If that’s the case for you, it might be better to take it in the evening or before bed to avoid feeling sluggish during the day.
Ultimately, there’s no universal “best time” to take Lexapro for anxiety. It depends on how your body reacts to the medication and what fits best with your daily routine. The most important thing is to take it at the same time every day to maintain consistent levels of the medication in your body.
What Happens If I Forget to Take My Lexapro?
Life can get busy, and forgetting to take your medication can happen. If you fail to take your Lexapro dose, there are a few general guidelines to follow:
- If you remember before bedtime: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then, continue with your regular schedule the next day.
- If you remember during the night or the next day: Skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
To avoid missing doses, set the alarm on your phone or habitually take your medication daily. Your pharmacist may also have helpful suggestions for reminders.
Forgetting a dose occasionally is not a major issue, but regularly missing doses can affect the effectiveness of Lexapro. Consistency is key to ensuring that the medication works appropriately to manage your anxiety.
You Don’t Have to Navigate Anxiety Alone – Call a Caring Mental Health Doctor in Mississippi or Alabama Today
Dealing with anxiety can feel like an uphill battle, but with the proper support and treatment, it’s possible to find relief and regain control of your life. Whether you’re in Mississippi or Alabama, our compassionate healthcare providers at Pause Pain & Wellness are here to guide you through your mental health journey.
We conveniently have clinics in Oxford, Meridian, Flowood/Jackson, Tupelo, Olive Branch, Starkville, Hattiesburg, Gulfport, and Montgomery. Our team is ready to help you determine whether Lexapro or another treatment option is right for you. Together, we’ll create a wellness plan that supports your mental and emotional well-being.
You don’t have to face anxiety alone. Contact us to one of our clinics today at 833-940-5060 to schedule an appointment with a caring mental health professional. We’re here to support you every step toward better health.