Is Lexapro a narcotic drug? 

In this article, we will explore the question: “Is Lexapro a narcotic drug?” We will examine the differences between Lexapro and narcotic drugs, understanding how Lexapro functions as an antidepressant and its effects on the body. 

By clarifying these distinctions, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of Lexapro’s classification and usage.

Is Lexapro a narcotic drug? 

No, Lexapro is not a narcotic drug. Lexapro (Escitalopram) is an antidepressant used for the management and treatment of depression, anxiety, and several other mental health conditions (1). 

Lexapro does not qualify as a narcotic drug because of how it works and what effects it causes in your body. 

When taken as prescribed, escitalopram is not typically associated with addiction or dependence. Unlike drugs such as opioids or benzodiazepines, which have a higher potential for addiction, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) do not produce the same addictive effects. 

They do not cause a craving for the drug or lead to drug-seeking behavior.

What are the differences between Lexapro and narcotic drugs?

While Lexapro belongs to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and is commonly prescribed as first-line therapy for depression, narcotic drugs are a separate category of medications typically used for pain relief and can have addictive properties (1).

Lexapro inhibits the reuptake of serotonin to increase the availability of this neurotransmitter – which in turn counteracts symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and several other mental health conditions(2). 

Narcotic drugs, on the other hand, work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain and produce feelings of euphoria. These are characterized as controlled substances by law and only a few registered healthcare providers can prescribe these medications(3). 

What are some common misconceptions about Lexapro?

Lexapro is a narcotic medication

Lexapro is often mistaken as a narcotic or controlled substance – but that is not the case. Lexapro, although it does increase the excitatory activity in your brain, does not affect your brain like narcotics or central nervous system (CNS) stimulants (1,4). 

Lexapro gets you high

Lexapro does not get you high and this is how this medication is different from narcotics. Most narcotics induce euphoria and get you all high within a few minutes. Lexapro, on the other hand, takes 4-6 weeks to kick in (1,4). 

Most patients are asked to stick to Lexapro for at least 6-12 weeks for noticeable antidepressant activity. This is not how a narcotic works or produces its effects (4). 

Furthermore, Lexapro does not cause euphoria and this is why it is not included in the scheduled drugs and is not something that can be used for abuse. However, high doses of Lexapro, such as 30 mg, can cause some disturbing side effects.

Lexapro impairs your psychological functions

It is a common misconception that Lexapro makes you crazy or affects your psychological functions. However, that is not the case.

While some people may experience drowsiness or other side effects when starting Lexapro, these effects usually go away within a few weeks of starting the medication (5). Lexapro is not known to impair cognitive function or physical abilities (6). 

Lexapro is addictive

Lexapro is not considered addictive in the same way that narcotic drugs are. 

However, it’s important to note that discontinuing the use of escitalopram abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. This is not a sign of addiction but rather a result of the body adjusting to the absence of the medication. 

Withdrawal symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, headache, fatigue, irritability, and flu-like symptoms. To avoid these withdrawal effects, it is recommended to taper off the medication gradually under the supervision of a healthcare professional (5,6).

It is also important to make sure that you give Lexapro enough time to work before you decide to quit it. It’s not recommended to stop using the drug after a day or two without having a valid reason.

Lexapro is a magic cure for depression

Some people believe that it can treat anxiety and depression quickly and entirely. While Lexapro can effectively treat depression and anxiety, it is not a cure-all for these conditions. 

It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms effectively (7).

What are the common side effects associated with Lexapro?

Lexapro, although it is not a narcotic, is associated with some side effects, including:

• nausea
• constipation
• dry mouth
• weight loss or gain
• yawning
• heartburn/worsening of GERD
• diarrhoea
• emotional blunting
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• sexual problems
• increased sweating
• decreased appetite
• altered sense of taste or smell
• runny nose
• lack of motivation
• dizziness
• lack of focus
• excessive tiredness
• shaking
• sneezing
• drowsiness
• hiccups
• frequent urination
• stomach pain
• flu-like symptoms

Lexapro may cause more pronounced side effects when combined with medications that can also affect your brain, including:

• anticonvulsants (Gabapentin)
• antipsychotics
• anxiolytics (lorazepam, alprazolam, buspirone, etc)
• stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse, etc)
• other antidepressants
• antihistamines (diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine, etc)
• Levothyroxine
• some cold medications
• Street or recreational drugs – like Molly/ecstasy (MDMA)
• Some antiemetics (ondansetron)

Lexapro can also interact with some foods and beverages, including caffeine, alcohol, grapefruit, etc. It is also important to note that Lexapro, as it is not a narcotic or a controlled substance, can not be used for recreational purposes.

So, double-dosing or overdosing on Lexapro won’t get you high or induce euphoria. Doing so can subject you to disturbing side effects. Long-term use of high dose Lexapro may also affect your body physiology and your nutrient consumptions or vitamins.

Final words

Lexapro is not a narcotic, as it doesn’t affect your brain as narcotics do. However, Lexapro does have side effects of its own and it should only be used if prescribed by your healthcare provider. A drug does not have to be a narcotic to cause adverse effects, especially if it’s been misused. 

Make sure you stick to your doctor’s recommended dose and do not take it more often. If you are concerned about anything, reach out to your healthcare provider. 

Conclusions

In this brief article we have addressed the query “Is Lexapro a narcotic drug?” and through our exploration, it is clear that Lexapro is not classified as a narcotic. It is an antidepressant, specifically an SSRI, prescribed for the management of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. 

The distinctions between Lexapro and narcotic drugs lie in their respective mechanisms of action, effects on the body, and potential for addiction. Lexapro does not induce a high, craving, or drug-seeking behavior as narcotics do. 

By the end of this article, you can understand these differences and work closely with healthcare providers to ensure the safe and appropriate use of Lexapro.

References