Does Lexapro Affect Iron Levels? (3+ Factors)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 05/02/2024 | Next review date: 05/02/2026

Author bio

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159

Ivan Kahwa

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In this article, we will discuss whether Lexapro affects iron levels or not. We will also discuss what research suggests on this, the possible mechanism behind the impact of Lexapro on iron levels, the effects of low and high iron levels in the body, factors that may influence iron levels while taking Lexapro and the management of iron levels while taking Lexapro.

Does Lexapro affect iron levels?

Yes, Lexapro may affect your iron levels. However, this happens in extremely rare cases and is not a commonly reported side effect of Lexapro.

People are unique and how they react to medications differs drastically. Some people may experience unusual side effects like altered iron levels from Lexapro.

Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), it works by balancing the levels of a neurotransmitter in the body called serotonin. This chemical improves mood and boosts motivation in a person, thereby reducing depression and anxiety. (1)

Iron is an important component of your body that plays tons of essential roles like transporting oxygen to your blood and different body organs so that they can gain energy and work effectively. It is important for energy production and keeping your immune system healthy. (2)

If you are concerned about the impact of Lexapro on your iron levels or you’re sensing symptoms of iron deficiency, it’s best to consult your doctor to ensure an effective management plan.

How does Lexapro affect iron levels?

There is no direct relationship between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Lexapro and iron levels. However, iron plays an important role in the production of serotonin. The enzyme, tryptophan through which serotonin is synthesized needs iron to complete the production process. (4)

The absorption of iron from your gut can be influenced by various factors like the diet you’re consuming and the medications you’re taking. While SSRIs like Lexapro’s primary function is to balance the levels of serotonin in the brain, sometimes they might cause changes in your appetite and eating habits. This could indirectly affect the amount of nutrients like iron that your body gets from food. (1,4)

People react differently to medications. Some people may experience unique interactions or side effects from Lexapro that are not commonly reported.

What does research suggest?

According to a research study, a 41-year-old man was brought to a hospital in bad condition with troubled breathing, confusion and dizziness. His heart rate and blood pressure were also high and reports showed that he had dropped his blood count to a significant level as well. (3)

Later upon examination, the doctors found out that he had accidentally injected a high dose of escitalopram. His mouth was dry, pupils were big and he had marks on different parts of his body from injecting drugs. (3)

Later upon withdrawing escitalopram from his body along with other treatments, his haemoglobin and blood count started to get normal. This case study showed the reduction in iron levels from a high intravenous dose of escitalopram. (3)

What are the symptoms of altered iron levels from Lexapro?

The common symptoms of altered iron levels from Lexapro as well as in general are as follows: (5,6)

Symptoms of iron deficiency:

Fatigue
Weakness
Short of breath
Headaches
Pale skin
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Brittle nails (nails that can easily break or split)
Cold hands and feet
Swelling or soreness of the tongue and mouth
Restless leg syndrome (uncomfortable sensation in legs causing an urge to move them)

Symptoms of iron overload (Hemochromatosis):

Fatigue
Joint pain
Unexplained weight loss
Abdominal pain
Heart palpitations (rapid or pounding heartbeat)
Discolouration of the skin (skin becomes bronze or greyish)
Enlarged liver or spleen
Hair loss
Impotence or lack of menstruation
Diabetes (6)

It’s important to remember that different people can experience different symptoms and some symptoms can be common for both iron overload and iron deficiency.

What factors influence iron levels while taking Lexapro?

Many factors can affect the levels of iron in your body in general and while taking Lexapro, some of them include: (7)

Dietary intake: Mostly iron comes from our diet, especially foods like meat, fish, milk, cereals, beans etc. So make sure you eat a variety of these foods to help keep your iron levels in check.

Absorption factors: Some components in your diet like vitamin C can help your body absorb iron better, However, some medications can affect how iron is absorbed. (7)

Gastrointestinal conditions: If your stomach or gut is not functioning well, it might impact how your body absorbs iron. Conditions impacting your gut like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, can affect the absorption of iron and may make you iron deficient.

Individual response: While there’s no specific evidence that Lexapro directly affects iron levels, everyone’s body is different and some people might have unique reactions.

How to manage your iron levels while taking Lexapro?

Here are some general tips to help support healthy iron levels while taking Lexapro: (7)

Maintain a balanced diet:

Start consuming a diet that is a rich source of iron like red meat, fish, poultry, beans, cereals and green vegetables.

Consider iron absorption factors:

Certain foods and substances can help you in more rapid absorption of iron, such as vitamin C. So try to incorporate citrus fruits, strawberries and other rich sources of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in your diet.
On the other hand, there are some medications and substances that hinder iron absorption like calcium, so if you’re taking supplements for iron ask your doctor to adjust the timings for optimum effect. Also, avoid drinking alcohol when you’re taking a supplemental iron dose to avoid harmful interactions.

Monitor your menstrual health:

If you’re menstruating, you need to pay attention to your menstrual health. If you are having heavy periods discuss this with your healthcare provider, as it might impact your iron levels.

Pregnancy or breastfeeding:

If you are pregnant or you’re breastfeeding, your iron needs an increase. Make sure you are fulfilling these requirements for the good health of your baby and yourself by taking appropriate iron supplements prescribed by your doctor.

Regular checkups:

Include routine blood tests in your healthcare checkups to keep an eye on your iron levels. Regular or time-to-time monitoring helps identify any concerns or issues early.

Stay hydrated:

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated as it improves your overall health and also helps in the absorption of certain nutrients like iron, more effectively.

In my opinion as a pharmacist, Lexapro does not typically alters the iron levels in majority of people, this just happens very rarely in some individuals who are already sensitive to the use of medications like escitalopram or have some underlying health conditions.

However, if you experience altered (higher or lower) levels of iron, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider who has prescribed the medicine. They might adjust the timings of your dose and also give you some lifestyle advices to improve your overall wellbeing.