Does Lexapro make you sleepy? (+5 factors that contribute)

In this article, we will discuss if the medication Lexapro can make you feel sleepy, what is the mechanism behind it and what research says about this topic. Factors contributing to sleepiness during the treatment with Lexapro and what to do if you think that is happening will also be explored.

Does Lexapro make you sleepy?

Yes, Lexapro may make you sleepy, especially during the first weeks of treatment. This is a common side effect that happens to more than 1 in 100 people (1) and usually means your body is adapting to the medication.

Lexapro, also known as escitalopram, is a type of antidepressant called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is commonly used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety, and even obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

As the medication begins to regulate serotonin, some individuals may feel sleepier than usual. This effect often disappears while the body adjusts to the drug, and individuals usually experience increased alertness over time.

You must discuss any side effects with your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance and potentially adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What is the mechanism behind Lexapro making you sleepy?

Lexapro can impact sleep by altering the architecture of sleep itself. Sleep architecture refers to the pattern and structure of different sleep stages throughout the night.

These stages include rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM sleep, further divided into several stages, including deep or slow-wave sleep.

SSRIs such as Lexapro can lead to an increase in slow-wave, also known as deep sleep. Slow-wave sleep is characterized by synchronized brain activity and slow, large brain waves.

It’s considered the most restorative stage of sleep, where the body undergoes physical and mental recovery. While this may sound beneficial, an excessive amount of deep sleep can make you feel overly groggy and exhausted during the day.

What does research say?

Numerous research investigations have been conducted to explore the impact of Lexapro and SSRI antidepressants regarding energy levels and sleep patterns.

Fatigue and daytime drowsiness are commonly cited as potential side effects of Lexapro, although the results can differ from person to person. One study that evaluated the effect of escitalopram on sleep problems found that this medication tends to enhance sleep quality with the course of treatment (2).

The majority of research findings suggest that these side effects are frequently observed during the initial stages of treatment and tend to get better as the individual’s body gradually gets used to Lexapro.

Previous studies (3) have found that when people take SSRIs, it can mess with their sleep patterns. That means they might wake up more during the night, have more interruptions in their sleep, and take longer to fall asleep.

Nevertheless, among these SSRIs, escitalopram seems to be the one that disturbs sleep the least. This might be because it mainly affects serotonin. The good news is that after taking SSRIs for a while, the sleep disruptions usually improve.

Which factors contribute to sleepiness while taking Lexapro?

Serotonin regulation

Lexapro, as an SSRI, regulates serotonin levels in the brain. As the body adjusts to the medication, it’s possible that it can result in drowsiness. This adjustment period varies among individuals. Some people are more sensitive to escitalopram’s side effects than others.

Dosage

The amount of escitalopram you are taking plays a vital role. Higher doses are more likely to induce drowsiness. Maintaining consistency in the dosing schedule is crucial. Frequently changing the dosage can disrupt the medication’s effectiveness and potentially worsen side effects.

Interactions

Lexapro can interact with other medications or substances, contributing to sleepiness. Your healthcare provider must be aware of all medications and supplements you currently take.

Timing

Lexapro can be taken at any time of the day. The choice of timing is usually based on your response to the medication and your daily routine.

Some individuals find that taking it in the evening helps reduce daytime sleepiness, as the drowsiness can facilitate falling asleep, and the side effect is typically resolved upon waking.

Lifestyle

Several studies show that insufficient sleep might be a leading factor contributing to Lexapro-induced fatigue.

A person’s general health, sleep patterns, and lifestyle can influence how escitalopram affects their sleep. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and practising good sleep hygiene may help you mitigate these effects.

What to do if you are feeling sleepy when taking Lexapro?

If you think Lexapro is making you sleepy, it’s essential to discuss that with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and evaluate whether any adjustments are needed in your treatment plan.

If you take Lexapro in the morning, consider switching to an evening dose. Many patients find that beneficial, as the side effect harmonises with their sleep schedule.

It is also recommended that you prioritise the maintenance of a consistent sleep schedule, effective stress management, and the practice of healthy sleep hygiene. These lifestyle factors play a significant role in shaping your overall energy levels.

Conclusion

In this brief article, we answered the question, “Does Lexapro make you sleepy?” We have also discussed how important it is to let your healthcare provider know about the side effects you have, as they can provide a personalised treatment leading to a more successful and comfortable experience.

References