Does Escitalopram stop you from crying? (+3 factors)

In this article, we will discuss whether Escitalopram stops you from crying. We will also discuss some research studies and what one should do if this side effect occurs.

Does Escitalopram stop you from crying?

Escitalopram can stop you from crying. Crying is a common symptom of depression, so being an antidepressant, Escitalopram can stop you from crying because it can manage your emotions and make you feel less depressed.

Escitalopram, an antidepressant, can have varying effects on emotions, including crying. In some individuals, it may regulate and stabilize mood, reducing the frequency and intensity of emotional extremes, including excessive crying.

This is particularly true for people who experience excessive or uncontrollable crying as a symptom of depression or anxiety.

However, it is essential to note that responses to Escitalopram can vary. Some individuals may still experience emotions and may cry while taking the medication, but the intensity and frequency of such emotions may be more manageable.

Sometimes when people first start taking Escitalopram, it may cause emotional blunting or make them stop crying. This happens because it takes time for a person to adjust to Escitalopram and the changes it causes in the brain.

It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider when using Escitalopram as they can monitor your progress and adjust the medication as needed to achieve the desired emotional balance.

What does research suggest?

There is limited research study linking Escitalopram with reducing your tendency to cry. However, Escitalopram as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, can help reduce excessive crying, which is commonly seen in depressed patients, by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain (1).

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood, emotions and overall mental well-being. When serotonin levels are imbalanced, it can lead to symptoms of depression including crying (1).

By balancing serotonin levels, Escitalopram stabilizes mood and allows individuals to better cope with their feelings and stressors, resulting in a reduction in the frequency and intensity of crying episodes (1).

However, Escitalopram can also cause the inability to cry in some people. One study found that SSRI use can lead to a situation where people still feel emotional distress but have difficulty crying.

This situation might make treatment less tolerable for patients, as crying is often seen as a way to release emotions (2).

Individuals experiencing this effect should discuss it with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate course of action.

What factors can affect crying while taking Escitalopram?

The specific factors can contribute to control over crying. Such as:

Dry eyes: SSRIs, like Escitalopram can cause dry eyes as a side effect. This may lead to a decreased ability to cry.

Emotional blunting: Escitalopram can cause emotional blunting as a side effect which may lead to decreased crying.

Individual variation: People respond differently to medications, so the impact on emotional responses can vary from person to person. Some individuals may feel a reduction in the intensity of crying, while others may not.

Psychological factors: Existing emotional or psychological factors or history may interact with the medication’s effects and contribute to reduced crying.

Dosage and duration: The dosage and duration of Escitalopram can impact your emotional responses. A higher dose can have a greater impact on emotional regulation including crying.

Underlying conditions: The severity and nature of underlying conditions being treated can influence emotional responses. If the condition is well-managed with medication, you may find that your emotional responses, including crying are more regulated.

Other medications:

Concurrent use of other medications or treatments may interact with Escitalopram and can influence emotional responses including crying.

What to do if Escitalopram causes the inability to cry?

If you suspect Escitalopram is making you not cry, it is important to discuss it with your healthcare provider. There could be other factors at play here and Escitalopram might not be solely responsible for this. However, your doctor can help you with this condition and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Your doctor may adjust your medication dosage to see if it works. If this dosage adjustment does not work, they may discontinue your medication or switch to another antidepressant with fewer side effects.

Just make sure you do not make any changes to your prescription on your own or decide to stop Escitalopram abruptly. Sudden discontinuation of antidepressants can lead to disturbing withdrawal symptoms (3).

What are the other side effects of Escitalopram?

It is important to note that different individuals may experience different side effects and their severity can vary as well. However, some of the common side effects of Escitalopram include:

• Sleep disturbances
• Acid reflux
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Changes in appetite
• Nausea
• Heartburn

Conclusion

Based on my experience and knowledge, Escitalopram can inhibit the ability to cry for some individuals. While it is not a commonly reported side effect, it is essential to be aware of this potential side effect.

However, the emotional impact and the ability to express feelings are highly individual, and discussing them with a healthcare provider is crucial for a balanced and effective treatment plan.

References