Experiencing loss of appetite on Lexapro? Find out about malnutrition risks, warning signs to watch for, and when to talk to your prescriber. Stay healthy and informed.
If you’ve been prescribed Lexapro or are thinking about it, you probably have a lot of questions. Is it right for you? Will it make you gain weight? Where can you get it without hassle? This guide cuts through the jargon and gives you straight‑forward answers.
Lexapro (escitalopram) is an SSRI – a type of antidepressant that boosts serotonin levels in your brain. Higher serotonin usually means better mood, less anxiety, and smoother sleep. Doctors often pick it for major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, and sometimes panic attacks. It starts to kick in after about 1‑2 weeks, but full effects may take up to six.
The most common complaints are nausea, dry mouth, and mild headaches – usually fade after a few days. Some people feel a dip in energy or notice sexual changes like reduced libido. If you get severe dizziness, ringing ears, or thoughts of self‑harm, call your doctor right away.
One hot topic is appetite. Lexapro can trigger cravings for carbs or cause a subtle increase in hunger. The effect isn’t universal; many users report no change at all. If you do notice weight gain, try adding fiber‑rich foods and staying active – even short walks help keep the extra calories in check.
Research shows a few over‑the‑counter options may smooth out those cravings. 5‑HTP, a serotonin precursor, sometimes balances mood without adding hunger spikes. Chromium picolinate helps regulate blood sugar, which can curb sudden snack attacks. Finally, soluble fiber (like psyllium husk) fills you up and slows carb absorption.
Before mixing anything, check with your prescriber. Some combos can boost serotonin too much and cause serotonin syndrome – a rare but serious condition.
Ordering meds online is tempting, but scams are everywhere. Look for pharmacies that display a valid CIPA seal (for Canadian sites) or an NABP VIPPS certification (U.S.). Verify SSL encryption – the URL should start with https:// and show a lock icon.
A quick tip: type the pharmacy’s name into Google plus "reviews" and read at least three independent sources. If a site asks for payment before you upload a prescription, walk away. Legit pharmacies will ask to see a valid doctor’s order.
When you first begin, keep a simple diary: note mood changes, sleep quality, any new cravings, and side effects. This helps your doctor adjust the dose before problems snowball. Most people stay on 10 mg daily; some need a bump to 20 mg after a few weeks.
Don’t stop abruptly – tapering off prevents withdrawal symptoms like brain‑zaps or anxiety spikes. If you decide to switch meds, discuss alternatives such as bupropion (known for less weight gain) or vortioxetine.
Bottom line: Lexapro can be a solid tool for mood and anxiety when you understand how it works, watch for appetite shifts, and buy from reputable online pharmacies. Keep an eye on side effects, stay active, and talk to your doctor if anything feels off – that’s the fastest route to feeling better."
Experiencing loss of appetite on Lexapro? Find out about malnutrition risks, warning signs to watch for, and when to talk to your prescriber. Stay healthy and informed.