Has anyone had GI / Digestion problems with Lexapro?

Treatment and medication
1

Hey guys,

Sorry for the TMI lol, but has anyone been experiencing any constipation, bloating, etc since starting Lexapro? (or the opposite). I used to run like clockwork but I am definitely noticing a difference in my digestion since being on it.  

Just curious if this is normal and if it goes away.

Thanks in advance friends! xx

2

Yes, I have stomach upset :-). Mine takes the form of diarrhea, unfortunately!

​I've been on escitalopram since the end of May, starting at 5 mg and working up to 10 mg. I've been at 10 mg for almost 4 weeks now.

​The stomach issues did clear up for a bit, maybe even for a week or so? But now returned several days ago. Fortunately, it's only once or twice in the morning, and then I'm over it.

​I had the same issue when I was on Citalopram (40 mg) 5 years ago. It took a long time for that particular side effect to go away: about 2 1/2 months, if I remember correctly. And, I'd still have issues occasionally, especially if I drank a lot of milk in the evening.

3

Hi Kelly - thanks for sharing your experience! I've only been on it for about 6 weeks so I'm hoping everything will regulate soon  

Did you notice a big difference in your anxiety/depression/ocd relief when you bumped from 5mg to 10mg? I think i'll be moving up in dosage soon, but I'm nervous that there will be side effects! Did you experience any trouble moving up a dosage?

Thanks for your help!! xx

 

4

Hi Erica,My psych doctor increased my lexapro dose three times since starting it at the end of May and did not have bad side effects. 10mg to 15 and now on 20mg.I also take a small amount of Klonpin 0.5 mg a day,.(25 mg at night and .125mg twice a day). It takes time but you should get relief.Good Luck and God Bless

5

Thanks, Pam - that’s really helpful to know! I feel the 5mg helping me ever so slightly, but I still feel constantly hyper (not sure if that’s more the ADHD or OCD). I just really need something to calm me down because I find my ocd heightens when I have this level of anxious energy.

Have you found the klonapin to be a good addition? Does it have a calming effect for you? 

Thank you and best wishes!!

6

Hi Erica!

​No, I haven't noticed much difference at all since moving up to 10 mg. I'm hoping that in the next few weeks I'll see some improvement :-). I plan on staying at 10 mg at least another 4 weeks, to give this dose a fair chance. Then up to a higher dose, if necessary :-).

7

Yes, diarrhea. First month was worst, into month three, better, but still once or twice a day.