Does Lexapro affect balance? (3+ tips)

This article will discuss the topic of how Lexapro can potentially affect balance. It will explore the research findings regarding the impact of Lexapro on balance and mention the factors that may increase the risk. 

Furthermore, the article will cover management strategies for individuals experiencing balance issues while taking Lexapro, including recommendations from healthcare professionals and lifestyle adjustments.

Does Lexapro affect balance?

Lexapro may affect balance in some individuals. However, this is a very rare side effect. It is important to mention that impaired balance is more likely to occur upon Lexapro discontinuation. 

Multiple factors can influence one’s risk of suffering from balance problems while taking Lexapro, and individual responses to medications can vary. Thus, it is very important to be cautious and avoid situations where falls or accidents may happen.

If you are experiencing dizziness or balance problems while taking it, it’s crucial to discuss these symptoms with your doctor.

How can Lexapro affect balance?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), like Lexapro, specifically work by increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is involved in multiple processes in the body, and changes in its levels may impact the vestibular system, possibly causing balance and coordination problems.

Lexapro can also lead to decreased levels of sodium, which can cause low blood pressure and dizziness or lightheadedness. Lexapro-induced lightheadedness may lead to impaired balance. This is more likely to occur in elderly people. Citalopram can similarly lead to this side effect [1[.

What does research suggest?

One study investigated the effects of antidepressants, specifically SSRI medications like Lexapro, on balance. It found that taking an SSRI did not result in any noticeable changes in stability. There was no significant difference in maximum sway observed between the SSRI-treated subjects and the control group [2].

Furthermore, the researchers studied other parameters such as movement time, path sway, and distance error. To illustrate, movement time determines whether the subjects are moving slower or faster than controls to accomplish a task, path sway measures how far patients deviate from moving in a straight line, and distance error measures how far an SSRI-treated patient position is from the center [2]. 

Movement time and distance error showed no significant differences between the subjects taking SSRIs and the control group. However, the group taking SSRIs displayed a 16% increase in path sway towards the front or back in comparison to the placebo group [2]

Based on these findings, the study concluded that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (like Lexapro) do not have a significant impact on balance.

Another study investigated the link between selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors and dizziness. It found that people are more likely to experience dizziness following SSRI discontinuation [3].

The study suggested that abruptly stopping taking SSRIs can cause a sudden decrease in serotonin in a brain area called the VNC, which has a lot of serotonin receptors. This can disrupt the activity of neurons in the VNC, leading to dizziness and balance problems [3].

What factors influence Lexapro-induced balance problems?

Several factors can influence the likelihood of experiencing Lexapro-induced balance problems. 

• Firstly, higher doses of Lexapro can increase the risk of side effects, including tiredness, sleepiness, and dizziness, which may contribute to balance issues. 

• Jumping to high doses too quickly without proper dose escalation, the chances of experiencing such side effects as dizziness and balance problems.

• Conditions such as inner ear disorders, cardiovascular diseases, or other vestibular dysfunctions could potentially increase Lexapro-induced balance problems. Diseases that cause decreased blood pressure can also cause lightheadedness and balance problems.

• Certain medications, such as antihistamines or benzodiazepines, can increase the potential sedative effects of Lexapro, which may contribute to Lexapro-induced dizziness or impaired balance. 

• Taking Lexapro with Gabapentin, which is often done to treat depression comorbid with anxiety, can lead to dizziness, drowsiness, and fatigue. These side effects can also impair one’s balance.

• Likewise, the consumption of alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while taking Lexapro can increase the risk of balance problems.

• Older patients are more susceptible to experiencing sedation, dizziness, and balance problems. They are also more likely to fall because of these side effects.

What to do if Lexapro affects your balance?

First of all, you must speak with your doctor about the specific issues you are facing and do as they recommend. You shouldn’t change anything in your treatment plan without consulting with your doctor first.

If you experience dizziness and balance problems as a result of taking Lexapro, there are multiple management strategies that may help:

Treatment modification

Your doctor may suggest adjusting the dosage or timing of your Lexapro. For example, they may prescribe a smaller dose or advise you to take your dose at night.

Taking Lexapro at night or before sleeping can minimize experiencing balance problems during the day. They may also recommend a different medication if the side effects persist or become too troublesome.

Exercise caution

It is advisable that you slow down when getting up from a sitting or lying position to minimize dizziness and impaired balance. 

If you’re experiencing Lexapro-induced balance problems, you must be cautious when engaging in activities that require coordination, such as climbing ladders or operating machinery. In some cases, it may be helpful to use assistive devices like canes or walkers for extra stability.

Aim for healthier habits

Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol, as it can alter your consciousness and increase instability. It is also recommended to engage in regular physical activity, as this may help improve your overall balance and movement coordination.

Moreover, since low blood pressure is a risk factor for lightheadedness, patients should drink enough water and stay hydrated to help sustain normal blood pressure.

Physical therapy

If your balance issues are interfering with your daily life, it is recommended that you consult with a physical therapist. They may guide you through exercises that are specifically designed to improve balance and coordination.

In conclusion, I believe that Lexapro may affect balance in rare cases, particularly upon discontinuation. The likelihood of experiencing balance problems varies among individuals and can be influenced by multiple factors.

According to my knowledge, Lexapro can potentially impact the vestibular system and lead to balance problems. It can also decrease blood pressure and cause lightheadedness. However, studies indicate that the overall impact of SSRIs on balance is not significant. 

In my perspective, factors such as higher doses of Lexapro, inner ear disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and certain medications may contribute to Lexapro-induced balance problems.

If you are experiencing balance issues while taking Lexapro, I recommend consulting with your doctor for appropriate guidance and potential adjustments to your treatment plan. Consulting with a physical therapist may also be helpful

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