How Lexapro Affects Sleep
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a commonly prescribed SSRI antidepressant medication. It works by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. While Lexapro can be very effective at treating depression and anxiety, some people report feeling sleepy or fatigued while taking it. So does Lexapro actually make you sleepy?
Lexapro's Effects on Sleep Stages
Research shows that Lexapro does influence sleep, although effects can vary from person to person. One study found that Lexapro suppressed rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. REM sleep is the stage when we dream and process emotional memories. Suppressing REM sleep is linked to vivid dreams and nightmares over time. Other studies found Lexapro may make it harder to stay awake during daytime hours.
Feeling Drowsy as a Side Effect
Drowsiness is a documented potential side effect of taking Lexapro. In clinical trials, around 14 percent of those taking Lexapro reported extreme sleepiness or fatigue. So if you feel persistently sleepy or like you lack energy within the first couple weeks of starting Lexapro, the medication itself may be the culprit.
Long-Term Effects on Sleep
Over time, the sleepiness caused directly by Lexapro often improves. This means feeling less fatigued and generally having more energy during the day. However, some report sleep troubles like frequent waking or trouble falling asleep continue long-term. Discuss any sleep changes with your doctor so they can adjust treatment if needed. Don't stop Lexapro suddenly without medical supervision.
Tips for Coping with Sleepiness from Lexapro
If you feel excessively sleepy after recently starting Lexapro, give it more time before changing medications or dosages. Sleep changes when beginning an antidepressant are common. Here are some tips for coping with sleepiness while adjusting to Lexapro:
Take Lexapro Earlier
Taking Lexapro too close to bedtime can exacerbate sleepiness. Try taking your daily dose early in the morning or during mid-day instead. This gives your body more time to metabolize the medication before bed.
Avoid Alcohol
Consuming alcohol while taking Lexapro is strongly ill-advised. Alcohol is a sedative itself, so combining it with an antidepressant like Lexapro compounds sleepiness and drowsiness. Avoid drinking alcohol, especially in the short-term as you adjust to Lexapro's effects.
Don't Drive Drowsy
If Lexapro makes you feel excessively tired, do not drive or operate heavy machinery. Drowsy driving causes thousands of fatal crashes every year. Ask someone else to drive if need be until the side effect lessens over time. Sleepiness should improve within a few weeks.
Take a Nap
If Lexapro leaves you feeling drained, a short 20-30 minute nap can help boost energy and focus. Take afternoon naps with caution though - sleeping too long can make nighttime sleep more difficult. Set an alarm so you don't over-nap.
Change Timing if Needed
Ask your doctor before making dosage changes, but taking Lexapro before bed instead of morning may potentially minimize daytime sleepiness. Discuss adjusting timing as an option if you feel really impaired functioning during the day.
When to Consult Your Doctor
Reach out to your doctor if sleepiness from Lexapro doesn't start to improve after 3-4 weeks or if it impairs your ability to work, drive safely, or function during waking hours. Extreme fatigue, vivid strange dreams that persist over time, or involuntary muscle jerks during sleep also warrant a conversation with your healthcare provider about medication adjustments or alternatives.
Sleep changes from antidepressants like Lexapro vary greatly among individuals. Give your body time to adjust to the medication, avoid alcohol, and consult your prescriber if extreme sleepiness persists day after day. With some patience and the right coping strategies, side effects often resolve allowing Lexapro's benefits for mood to shine through.
FAQs
Does Lexapro make you tired all day?
Lexapro may cause moderate to severe daytime sleepiness, especially when first starting treatment. Excessive fatigue tends to improve within several weeks as the body adjusts to the medication. Taking your dose early in the day can also minimize tiredness.
Why do antidepressants give you weird dreams?
Antidepressants like Lexapro suppress REM sleep, which is when most dreaming occurs. Suppressing this stage seems to lead to intense, vivid dream states once the medication wears off at night as the brain tries to catch up on missed REM sleep.
How long does Lexapro fatigue last?
Sleepiness when starting Lexapro may persist for several weeks before gradually improving. Speak to your doctor if you still feel excessively tired, drained, or sleepy after taking Lexapro for 4 weeks or longer as they may adjust your dosage or switch medications.
What can I take to help with Lexapro fatigue?
If Lexapro makes you tired, try to take it early in the morning so it wears off more by bedtime. Avoid alcohol which compounds sleepiness. Drink coffee judiciously to help counteract daytime fatigue. Getting regular exercise may also help boost energy levels.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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