If you’ve been taking Lexapro and are now thinking about stopping, I completely get how exhausting it can feel.
You might be wondering: “What’s going to happen next?” or “Will I feel any different?”
Many people have the same questions. The truth is, some do experience withdrawal symptoms, especially if they stop the medication too quickly.
But here’s the thing: this doesn’t mean you’re addicted. It simply means your brain is adjusting.
Since Lexapro works by balancing serotonin, the chemical that helps regulate your mood, suddenly removing that support can take your body a little time to rebalance.
The good news? These symptoms are usually temporary and, with the right plan, very manageable.
Common Symptoms of Lexapro Withdrawal
The most common withdrawal symptoms of Lexapro can affect both your body and your emotions. People often describe:
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feeling off balance or wobbly.
- Brain Zaps: Short bursts of buzzing or shock-like feelings in the head.
- Headaches: Ranging from mild tension to pounding migraines.
- Nausea or Stomach Upset: Sometimes paired with loss of appetite.
- Flu-Like Feelings: Achy muscles, chills, or general weakness.
- Irritability or Mood Swings: Snapping more easily than usual.
- Anxiety or Restlessness: Racing thoughts or feeling on edge.
- Crying Spells: Emotions feel closer to the surface.
- Low Mood or Depression Flare-Ups: Sometimes withdrawal can mimic the original symptoms.
- Insomnia: Trouble falling asleep or waking up often.
- Vivid or Unusual Dreams: Some people report strange, lifelike dreams.
- Daytime Fatigue: Feeling extra tired after restless nights.
- Brain Fog: Difficulty focusing or thinking clearly.
- Poor Concentration: Tasks that normally feel easy may take more effort.
- Confusion: Occasionally, people feel “out of it” or mentally cloudy.
Not everyone will have all of these, and the intensity can be very different from person to person. Some people only notice mild dizziness, while others feel a mix of physical and emotional changes.
A National Library of Medicine Study shows the reasons and symptoms of SSRI Withdrawals: The lived experience of withdrawal from Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants: A qualitative interview study
Why Does Lexapro Withdrawal Happen?
Lexapro is part of a group of medicines called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). These medicines help boost the level of serotonin in your brain, which plays a big role in mood, sleep, and overall balance.
When you stop taking lexapro, especially if you stop suddenly, your brain doesn’t get the same amount of serotonin support it’s used to.
This change can feel a little like pulling the rug out from under your feet. the result? Your system needs time to “reset,” and during that time, you may notice withdrawal symptoms of lexapro.
Doctors often call this antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. the name sounds scary, but it’s just a medical way of describing the adjustment period your body goes through when coming off these kinds of medications.
The key thing to remember is: these symptoms don’t mean you’re addicted, they just mean your body is recalibrating.
Timeline of Lexapro Withdrawal Symptoms
Everyone’s experience is different, but most people notice a general pattern when stopping Lexapro. Here’s what the timeline may look like:
| Timeframe | What You Might Notice |
|---|---|
| 1–3 Days After Stopping | Dizziness, brain zaps, nausea, and mild headaches. Some people start to feel anxious or restless. |
| 1–2 Weeks (Peak) | Symptoms are usually strongest here. Mood swings, irritability, vivid dreams, fatigue, and flu-like feelings are common. |
| 2–4 Weeks | Physical symptoms often improve. Emotional and sleep-related symptoms may linger but start easing. |
| 1–3 Months | Most people feel back to normal. A few may still have mild anxiety, brain fog, or mood dips. |
| Beyond 3 Months | Rare, but some people notice longer-lasting symptoms. In these cases, a doctor should be consulted for extra support. |
Keep in Mind: These are averages, not exact rules. Your timeline may be shorter or longer depending on your dose, how long you’ve been on Lexapro, and how quickly you stop.
Coping Strategies for Lexapro Withdrawal
Dealing with symptoms of Lexapro withdrawal can feel like a burden, but there are safe ways to make the process easier.
The key is to combine medical guidance with simple lifestyle changes that support your body and mind during the adjustment period.
1. Work With Your Doctor
The safest way to stop Lexapro is under medical supervision. A doctor can create a slow tapering schedule that reduces symptoms and keeps you stable.
They may also recommend temporary medications or strategies to ease discomfort during the transition.
2. Follow a Tapering Plan
Never quit “cold turkey.” Gradually lowering your dose allows your brain to adjust slowly, making withdrawal symptoms much milder.
Even small changes in dosage can reduce dizziness, brain zaps, and mood swings compared to stopping suddenly.
3. Focus on Sleep Hygiene
Good sleep is one of the best tools for recovery. Set a regular bedtime, limit screen time before bed, and create a calming nighttime routine.
This helps ease insomnia, vivid dreams, and fatigue that often show up during withdrawal.
4. Stay Active and Hydrated
Gentle exercise like walking, stretching, or yoga helps boost mood and fight brain fog. Drinking plenty of water supports your body as it balances serotonin levels again.
Small daily habits can make symptoms like headaches and low energy feel less intense.
5. Practice Stress Management
Stress can make withdrawal symptoms worse. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling.
These practices calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and help you manage mood swings while your body adjusts to life without Lexapro.
6. Seek Emotional Support
Talk to a friend, therapist, or support group. Sharing what you’re going through helps you feel less alone and provides encouragement.
Emotional support can be especially valuable if withdrawal symptoms trigger sadness, irritability, or fear about relapse.
Putting these strategies together makes the process smoother and helps you feel more in control while managing withdrawal symptoms of Lexapro.
At the End
The symptoms of Lexapro withdrawal can feel uncomfortable, but they are usually temporary and manageable with the right support.
From what I’ve seen, the best approach is tapering slowly, staying mindful of healthy habits, and leaning on medical guidance when needed.
If the withdrawal symptoms of Lexapro become too strong or last longer than expected, it’s always best to reach out to a healthcare professional.
With patience and the right plan, it is possible to move through withdrawal safely and feel more in control along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Brain Zaps from Lexapro Withdrawal Dangerous?
Brain zaps feel strange but are not considered harmful. They’re a common side effect of your brain adjusting to serotonin changes. While they can be uncomfortable, they usually fade with time or tapering.
Can Tapering Prevent Lexapro Withdrawal?
Tapering greatly reduces the risk and intensity of withdrawal symptoms. By slowly lowering your dose, your body and brain have more time to adjust.
How Do I Know if It’s Withdrawal or Depression Coming Back?
Withdrawal usually starts within days of stopping Lexapro and includes physical symptoms like dizziness, brain zaps, or nausea. A relapse of depression tends to happen more gradually and is focused on mood changes.
