Does Lexapro deplete iron? (3+ findings)

In this article, we will discuss the possibility of iron depletion from Lexapro, the relationship between Lexapro and iron depletion, studies on Lexapro and iron levels, and what additional factors can lower the level of iron in your body.

We will also discuss how to increase iron levels while taking Lexapro, and dietary considerations and supplementation options.

Does Lexapro deplete iron?

Yes, Lexapro can reduce iron levels. Escitalopram is a medicine that is sold under the brand name Lexapro. It is a member of the SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor) class of drugs. Both depression and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) are treated with it. (1)

Serotonin neurotransmitters are produced by your body with the help of iron. It’s a component of hemoglobin. Additionally, it is a cofactor for the aromatic amino acid hydroxylases such as tryptophan, phenylalanine, and tyrosine. (2)

The limiting stage in the synthesis of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine is the activity of these enzymes. The depressive condition is determined by the equilibrium of these three neurotransmitters.

What does research suggest?

A cohort research was carried out to ascertain whether or not anemia is influenced by antidepressant use. The relationship between anemia and particular antidepressant classes was also examined.

Eight thousand six hundred forty (8640) individuals between the ages of 50 and 75 had their hemoglobin levels, depression symptoms, and antidepressant usage evaluated.

According to the findings, a lower hemoglobin level was independently linked to both depression and antidepressant use. SSRIs and SNRIs (Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors), two antidepressant classes, have been linked to reduced hemoglobin levels.

This study concluded that decreased hemoglobin levels were linked to both depression and antidepressant use. Taking SSRIs such as Lexapro or SNRIs such as Effexor was also linked to reduced hemoglobin levels.

Even though Effexor is an SNRI, it can lower some people’s hemoglobin levels despite its ability to increase energy levels.

Therefore, Patients who have depression and are at risk for anemia should use SSRIs or SNRIs with caution. (3)

What additional factors can lower your body’s iron levels?

Several factors can deplete your body of iron. Some of the most typical causes of iron deficiency include:

• Poor dietary intake: there are numerous factors that could contribute to someone having an inadequate intake of iron in their diet, such as a poorly balanced diet, or not eating a variety of fresh foods.

• Blood loss: continuous blood loss due to underlying medical conditions is a common cause of iron deficiency. Heavy menstrual cycles, nose bleeding, chronic illnesses that involve bleeding such as peptic ulcers, or malignancies of the intestines can be the main factors in iron deficiency. Several drugs that can result in bleeding such as aspirin can also deplete your body’s iron levels.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, your body requires more iron. If this increased need for iron is not satisfied, iron deficiency can develop very fast.

• Intensive exercise: Iron is lost through sweating during regular intense exercise, which can cause iron deficiency.

• Iron malabsorption: If your body can’t absorb Iron due to underlying medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease, iron deficiency can occur. (4)

What are the dangers associated with iron deficiency?

Typically, mild iron deficiency doesn’t result in consequences. Iron deficiency can worsen and cause a number of health issues if left untreated, such as the following:

Obstacles during pregnancy. Babies with low weight and premature deliveries have been associated with severe iron deficiency in pregnant women.

An irregular or fast heartbeat might be a symptom of iron deficiency. If you are diagnosed with anemia, your blood doesn’t carry as much oxygen, so your heart has to pump more blood. HF (Heart Failure) may result from this.

Severe iron shortage in children and newborns can result in anemia, as well as slowed development and growth. With iron deficiency, the risk of infection also rises. (5)

How do you increase iron levels while taking Lexapro?

When taking Lexapro, if you experience iron deficiency symptoms like extreme fatigue or weakness; talk to your physician or healthcare provider right away.

They may order the appropriate tests to determine your body’s iron levels, and depending on the results, they may advise you to take iron supplements or drugs containing iron to balance your iron levels.

One iron supplement that you can take to treat iron deficiency is ferrous sulfate (FeSO4). If you are a vegetarian or don’t receive enough iron from your diet, you could need FeSO4. FeSO4 is available as a liquid and tablet in the market. (6)

Natural iron sources in the diet

By consuming iron-rich foods, you can lower your risk of iron deficiency while taking Lexapro. Iron-rich foods include red meat, poultry, peas, beans, leafy vegetables, iron-rich cereals, and tomatoes. (7)

You can enhance iron absorption by consuming vitamin C-rich foods or drinks such as lemon or orange juice.

After trying to raise your iron level with medications and iron-rich foods but finding that it is still low, speak with your physician about switching from Lexapro to a medicine that is neither an SSRI or SNRI. Instead, an atypical antidepressant class of medication like bupropion (Wellbutrin) can be used.

Conclusion

Lexapro can lower iron levels in some individuals. If this happens to you while taking Lexapro, talk to your physician about taking iron supplements and eating iron-rich foods. If your iron level is still low, talk to your doctor about switching medications.

References