On increasing Lexapro to 15 mg, my anxiety level increases. Is dosage the cause?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been taking Lexapro 10 mg for the past five years and recently I have increased the dose to 15 mg. After the dosage increase, there is an increase in my anxiety level. Will increase in antidepressant dosage cause a temporary increase in anxiety?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

An increase in antidepressant dosage can potentially cause short term agitation, increased anxiety until your body gets used to the new dosage.

Lexapro (escitalopram) is an effective medication to treat anxiety and depression. The usual dose is 10 mg once daily. Sometimes dosage can be increased to 15 mg or 20 mg once daily. Discuss with your psychiatrist whether the increase in Lexapro dosage is needed in your situation. If increase in anxiety does not settle in a week or two, discuss with your psychiatrist about reducing the dose back to 10 mg once daily.

You can consider psychological therapy like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) for additional support.

On increasing Lexapro to 15 mg, my anxiety level increases. Is dosage the cause?

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