Does Lexapro cause body odor? (+3 factors)

In this article, we will explore whether Lexapro cause body odour or not. In addition to this, The mechanism and the factors affecting it along with what to do and how to manage the body odor will also be discussed.

Does Lexapro cause body odor?

No, Lexapro itself does not cause body odor. However, individuals’ responses to medication may vary and some may experience changes in body odor while taking Lexapro, primarily due to multiple factors that may indirectly cause this effect.

Lexapro may cause sweating as a side effect (1). This perspiration may be the general cause of body odor. The sweating itself may be not distinct but it can lead to the perception of body odor.

It is important to practice good hygiene, regular bathing and use of deodorant to help manage any potential odor issue.

What is the potential link between Lexapro and body odor?

Lexapro (Escitalopram) is an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) (2). Lexapro may be a well-tolerated medication for anxiety and mood disorders but it has its list of side effects which include nausea diarrhoea, dizziness etc body odor is not one of the frequently reported side effects (2).

Body odor indirectly incidences due to sweating caused by antidepressants, especially SSRIs (3). There is limited research on Lexapro causing body odor but some researchers suggest that antidepressants trigger sweating because of how they work.

The hypothalamus is the part of the brain that controls the body temperature and your ability to sweat. Lexapro increases serotonin levels in the brain which may in turn affect sweating and may cause no odor.

What factors may lead to body odor while taking Lexapro?

Body odour while taking Lexapro can result from several indirect factors because Lexapro does not typically produce body odor as a direct side effect. The factors influencing body odor other than Lexapro may include:

Sweating: Excessive sweating, especially when combined with physical stress or activity can lead to an environment where bacteria on the skin may break down sweat, producing body odor.

Stress and anxiety: Lexapro is often prescribed to manage mood and anxiety disorders. However, stress and anxiety, which may have prompted the use of Lexapro, can themselves contribute to changes in body odor due to increased perspiration and physiological responses (4).

Dietary intake: Dietary choices and exercise patterns can affect body odor.  Certain foods like garlic onion and spices can contribute to body odor. In addition to these, physical activities can affect the body’s odor as well.

Hygiene practices: Proper personal hygiene, including regular bathing, use of deodorant and wearing clean clothes plays a significant role in managing body odor.

Individual variability: People vary in their responses to medication. On one hand, some individuals may not notice any changes in body odor while taking Lexapro, others may be more sensitive to these changes.

Olfactory Reference Syndrome (ORS): It is a psychological mental condition. People with ORS believe that they have a strong or offensive body odor. It is distinct from the physical manifestation of the odor (5).

What to do if Lexapro is affecting your body odor?

If Lexapro causes a bad odor, then the first and foremost step is to consult your healthcare provider.

Consulting healthcare provider: They will evaluate the symptoms for you, determine the actual cause and address it. A dosage adjustment or medication switching may also be recommended.

Good hygiene practices: Good hygiene plays a crucial role in omitting body odor, regular bathing, wearing clean clothes and use of deodorants is the best hygiene practice to avoid body odor.

Pharmacological treatment: There are some medications called antiperspirant medications that can help omit body odor. These medications include:

• Drysol
• Xerac AC
• Qbrexza.

However, these medications should not be used without consulting healthcare providers because they can prevent your body from sweating when it needs to cool down.  Some people find that taking chlorophyll supplements can help in reducing body odor.

How to manage body odor while taking Lexapro?

Here are some tips to manage body odor:

• Regular showers with soap and water to remove sweat and odour-producing substances from your skin play an essential role.
• Apply an antiperspirant and deodorant to clean, dry skin to help prevent sweating and odor.
• Natural, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen or wool allow air circulation and help reduce sweat and odor.
• Tigh-fitting clothing can trap sweat leading to body odor. Wearing loose clothing can also be a measure to prevent body odor.
• If you sweat heavily then change your clothes regularly, especially during hot and humid weather.
• Keep yourself hydrated to dilute the odor-causing compounds in your sweat.
• Baking soda can help neutralize the odor if applied to the body parts such as feet.
• Managing stress can also help reduce sweat and odor. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing and yoga.

What side effects are common with Lexapro?

Body odor is not a common side effect of Lexapro. However, the common side effects of Lexapro include (6):

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Sleep disturbance
• Dry mouth
• Sweating
• Fatigue
• Weight changes
• Agitation
• Reduced libido

Conclusion

In my perspective, Lexapro does not directly cause body odour. If a patient taking Lexapro experiences or reports the effect, then it may be due to some other relevant factors instead of the drug.

At the same time, different drugs show different effects in different individuals. Consultation with your healthcare provider is the best option at all times.

References