Side Effects of Lexapro: An Overview of Their Potential Severity
Lexapro, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), carries potential risks for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals.
When considering Lexapro during pregnancy, it's essential to discuss one's health history with a doctor. While Lexapro is considered one of the safer SSRI options during pregnancy, it is not entirely risk-free. Some studies indicate a slight increased risk of heart, kidney, and urinary tract problems in the fetus, especially with certain antidepressants. However, Lexapro has a relatively favorable safety profile compared to others [1][4].
Untreated depression poses significant risks to both the fetus and the mother, making appropriate treatment necessary [4]. Potential risks to the fetus from SSRIs, including Lexapro, may include developmental issues such as difficulty breathing, feeding problems, irritability, and a small risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn if exposure occurs late in pregnancy [2][5].
Breastfeeding while on Lexapro can expose the infant to the medication. Side effects in breastfed infants may include agitation, irritability, or feeding difficulties, although this is usually less severe than in utero exposure. Decisions to breastfeed while on Lexapro should involve a risk-benefit discussion with a healthcare provider to balance maternal mental health and potential infant effects [2].
Common and potential serious side effects of Lexapro in pregnancy and breastfeeding individuals include drowsiness, insomnia, anxiety, reduced libido, lack of appetite, perspiration, yawning, unstable movements, mood swings, swollen painful eyes, blurry vision, weakness, uncoordinated movement, headache, vomiting, severe fever, tremor, irregular heartbeat, allergic reactions such as hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, and serotonin syndrome [3].
Serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition, can occur, presenting with diarrhea, fever, profuse sweating, lack of coordination, agitation, racing heart, stiff muscles, and vomiting [3].
Close monitoring and shared decision-making with healthcare providers are essential to manage these risks appropriately [1][3][4]. The FDA classifies Lexapro in pregnancy risk category C, meaning people should only take it if the drug's benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.
In serious cases, low blood sodium levels can be life-threatening without treatment. People who take Lexapro may be at a greater risk of experiencing low sodium levels in the blood. Symptoms of low blood sodium levels include headache, weakness, feeling unsteady or having falls, confusion, memory problems, trouble concentrating, hallucinations, fainting, seizures, coma, and in rare cases, infants may become restless, irritable, or sick if the mother is breastfeeding [6].
If a person's depression gets worse or they experience new or increased suicidal ideation, it is important to contact a doctor immediately. The FDA notes that taking SSRIs during the second half of pregnancy slightly increases the risk of the infant developing persistent pulmonary hypertension, but the overall risk is minimal [7].
In conclusion, Lexapro can be an effective treatment option for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, but close monitoring and careful consideration are necessary. Speak with a doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks and determine the best course of action for your unique situation.
- During pregnancy, the potential risks of taking Lexapro must be carefully weighed against the risks of untreated depression, as both situations pose significant risks to the mother and fetus.
- Breastfeeding while on Lexapro can expose the infant to the medication, leading to potential side effects such as agitation, irritability, or feeding difficulties.
- Serious side effects associated with Lexapro in pregnancy and breastfeeding individuals include drowsiness, mood swings, and potentially fatal conditions like serotonin syndrome and low sodium levels in the blood.
- Serotonin syndrome, a life-threatening condition, can occur and symptoms include diarrhea, fever, profuse sweating, agitation, and racing heart.
- Close monitoring and shared decision-making with healthcare providers are essential to manage the risks associated with taking Lexapro during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- The FDA classifies Lexapro in pregnancy risk category C, meaning it should only be taken if the drug's benefits outweigh the risk to the fetus.
- Nutrition, mental health, health-and-wellness, therapies-and-treatments, and Medicare may all play a role in managing depression for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, and it's important to discuss these factors with a doctor to determine the best course of action for your unique situation.
