Does Lexapro Cause High Cholesterol? Understanding the Link

Understanding the Link Between Lexapro and Cholesterol

Lexapro (escitalopram) is a commonly prescribed antidepressant medication. It works by restoring balance to neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood and emotions. As with any medication, Lexapro can cause certain side effects. Some people wonder if Lexapro can negatively impact cholesterol levels. Here is a comprehensive look at the current research on whether Lexapro causes high cholesterol.

How Lexapro Works

Lexapro belongs to the class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the brain. This leaves more serotonin available in the spaces between neurons. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. Having more serotonin circulating typically improves symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Lexapro is prescribed to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder in adults. It is also used for anxiety and depression in adolescents aged 12 to 17 years old. Lexapro is typically well-tolerated, with mild side effects like nausea, dry mouth, insomnia, and fatigue. As with any medication that affects brain chemistry, Lexapro does have the potential to influence other body systems like metabolism and cardiovascular health.

Lexapro’s Effects on Weight

One common side effect of Lexapro is changes in appetite and weight. Some people lose their appetite initially when starting Lexapro before it returns to normal. Others experience increased hunger and cravings while taking Lexapro long-term.

Gaining a significant amount of weight can negatively impact cholesterol levels and heart health. Research indicates that weight gain is common while taking Lexapro or other SSRIs. One study found that over a 10-year period, people taking an SSRI like Lexapro gained an average of 10 lbs (4.5 kg) more than those not taking antidepressants.

Lexapro and Lipid Imbalances

In addition to weight gain caused by increased appetite, some research shows that Lexapro and other SSRIs can trigger more direct metabolic changes - like altered lipid profiles and high cholesterol.

One study looked at medical records for over 30,000 adults taking Lexapro or other SSRIs. It found significant increases in total cholesterol, LDL “bad” cholesterol, and triglycerides in patients after starting an SSRI. However, there were no elevation in HDL “good” cholesterol.

Another study using rat models showed that Lexapro seems to inhibit key receptors (5-HT2B and 5-HT2C receptors) that help regulate metabolic functions. This can lead to fat accumulation in the liver, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and weight gain - independent of diet and lifestyle factors.

Combination with Weight Gain Medications

Sometimes Lexapro is prescribed together with other psychiatric medications that list significant weight gain as a side effect. These include options like antipsychotic drugs or mood stabilizers. Combination therapy with multiple medications that alter metabolism increases the likelihood of high cholesterol.

For example, one study that added an antipsychotic drug to ongoing Lexapro treatment resulted in an average weight gain of 7 lbs (3.2kg) over just 12 weeks. This dramatic shift in body composition can negatively impact blood lipids.

Lifestyle Changes While Taking Lexapro

Appetite changes that lead to weight gain appear responsible for many of Lexapro’s impacts on cholesterol. Making healthy lifestyle adjustments can help manage those side effects.

Be sure to follow doctor's orders for cholesterol screening while taking Lexapro. Have lipid panels done periodically to monitor for elevation in total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides. Catching high cholesterol early makes it easier to control with lifestyle interventions or additional medications.

Eating a Mediterranean style diet high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins can support healthy cholesterol levels. Getting regular exercise appropriate for your fitness level and health status can also help manage weight and circulatory health.

Talk to Your Doctor

Always speak to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about side effects while taking Lexapro or any other antidepressant. Don’t stop medication without medical supervision.

Your doctor may recommend adjusting the Lexapro dosage or switching antidepressants if you experience rapid weight gain, metabolic changes, or spikes in cholesterol. Blood tests can help distinguish if high cholesterol stems directly from the medication or other health factors.

Treatment options for improving cholesterol levels include statins like atorvastatin or simvastatin plus adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle. Controlling the underlying condition causing high cholesterol is also key - whether it’s medication-induced or tied to genetics, diet, inactivity or other chronic diseases.

The Bottom Line

Research indicates that Lexapro can lead to excess weight gain in some people who take it. Packing on extra pounds typically spikes cholesterol levels - especially “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

Lexapro also seems to have more direct metabolic effects - inhibiting receptors that regulate lipid profiles. This combination negatively impacts blood fats like cholesterol, regardless of dietary and lifestyle habits.

Speak to your healthcare providers about cholesterol screening and monitoring while on long-term Lexapro treatment. Controlling side effects with diet, exercise, lower medication dosages or alternative antidepressants can get cholesterol back on track.

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.