October 21st, 2025
If you take Lexapro for anxiety, you might be wondering — when’s the best time to take Lexapro for anxiety?
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a commonly prescribed SSRI antidepressant that helps balance serotonin levels in the brain, easing symptoms of anxiety and depression. While the medication is generally safe and effective, the time of day you take Lexapro can influence how you feel — from energy levels to sleep quality.
Understanding how Lexapro works in your body and how your anxiety symptoms respond can help you find the best time to take it and create a consistent routine that supports your mental health. Keep reading to learn more about this popular anxiety medication!
Lexapro is an SSRI drug that helps control serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, sleep, and emotional balance. Lexapro stops serotonin from being reabsorbed in the brain, which means that more serotonin is able to stay active in your body.
This process helps maintain mood stability, reduce anxiety, and strengthen your emotional well-being over time. People usually notice significant changes after a few weeks of using anxiety meds like Lexapro, but it can take four to six weeks of consistent use to experience the full benefits.
Lexapro is a drug that helps people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) feel better by easing their constant worry, stress, and restlessness. For more information on Lexapro, head to our blog “What is Lexapro?”.
When you take Lexapro, it’s absorbed through your digestive system and begins to regulate how serotonin functions in the brain. Because SSRIs don’t work immediately, it’s important to take them every day to build up consistent levels in your system.
The goal is to maintain steady serotonin balance, which helps prevent anxiety and depression symptoms from returning or worsening.
In the first few weeks, some people may experience mild side effects like nausea, fatigue, or changes in sleep. These effects usually improve as your body adjusts to the medication. The most important thing is to take your prescribed dose at the same time every day, which helps your body maintain stable serotonin levels and supports long-term symptom relief.
Take Lexapro exactly as your doctor prescribes — usually once a day at the same time. Swallow it with a glass of water, and you can take it with or without food. If it makes your stomach upset, try taking it after a meal instead.
Do not take more than your prescribed dose, and don’t stop taking Lexapro suddenly unless your doctor tells you to. Stopping too quickly can cause unpleasant side effects or make your anxiety or depression symptoms worse.
Every time you pick up your prescription, your pharmacist will instruct you on how to take the specific medication. It's important to listen carefully every time you get a refill so you stay informed about updates and safety information.
If the medication is being prescribed for a child or teenager, always discuss it closely with the healthcare provider, since special care may be needed for younger patients.
And finally — remember, Lexapro is prescribed just for you. Don’t share it with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.
The best time to take Lexapro for anxiety can vary from person to person. It depends on how your body responds to the medication — including how it affects your energy, sleep, and any side effects you experience. There’s no single “right” time for everyone, but most people find that taking Lexapro either in the morning or at night fits best with their routine and helps them feel more consistent day to day.
Pros of Taking Lexapro in the Morning:
Cons of Taking Lexapro in the Morning:
• Some people may feel mild nausea, dizziness, or fatigue shortly after taking it
• If it causes tiredness, it could make it harder to focus on work or daily tasks early in the day.
Pros of Taking Lexapro at Night:
• A good option if Lexapro tends to make you feel sleepy or relaxed.
• Can help you sleep through early side effects like nausea or fatigue.
Cons of Taking Lexapro at Night:
• Some people may experience trouble sleeping or vivid dreams, especially at the start of treatment.
• Harder to stay consistent if your bedtime changes frequently.
Here are some common Lexapro side effects that might impact when you take your medication:
• Tiredness or sleepiness
• Restlessness or insomnia
• Nausea or an upset stomach
• Headache or dizziness
If you find that Lexapro makes you sleepy, you might want to take it at night. If it keeps you from sleeping or gives you vivid dreams, try switching to morning.
It's always a good idea to talk to your doctor about your honest experience with when you are taking the medications, how you are taking them, and how they make you feel.
While medication can be a powerful tool to help improve mental health, there are things you can do to ensure you are getting the best results. Consistency, patience, and a holistic approach are key. Here are a few tips that can help ensure you are getting the maximum benefit from your anxiety treatment:
• Take Lexapro at the same time every day. Consistency helps keep your serotonin levels steady, which supports stable mood and anxiety relief.
• Pair it with a daily habit. Take it during a routine activity like brushing your teeth or eating breakfast so it becomes part of your regular schedule.
• Don’t skip doses. Missing a dose can cause serotonin levels to fluctuate, which may lead to returning anxiety or mood changes.
• Be patient. It can take several weeks to feel the full benefits of Lexapro — stick with it as prescribed.
• Consult your doctor before making changes. Always talk to your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose or changing the time you take your medication.
• Having a holistic treatment plan. Try integrating medication with other forms of treatment such as therapy, mindfulness practices, and exercise. This well rounded approach is typically the most effective path to lasting well-being.
The best time to take Lexapro for anxiety depends on your body's natural rhythm, your way of life, and how the anxiety medication makes you feel. No matter when you take it, you need to be consistent and talk to your doctor or provider.
Lexapro can help you feel less anxious and get things back to normal over time. It can be a big part of emotional healing when used with therapy and self-care.
If you live in or near Chicago, seeking an affordable anxiety therapist or anxiety doctors near you just got easier! Our team of anxiety specialists in Chicago provides personalized, evidence-based strategies, empowering you to effectively manage anxiety and live life on your terms.
We proudly work with the best Psychiatrists, Psychiatric NPs, Psychiatric PA-Cs, and therapists to ensure you get the most effective anxiety treatment services near you. Whether you are looking for the right medication for anxiety or an anxiety therapist in Chicago, Clarity Clinic is here to help.
Book an appointment at one of our convenient locations (Loop, River North, Lakeview Belmont, Lakeview Broadway, Evanston, or Arlington Heights) and get the best anxiety treatment near you today!
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Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never ignore or delay seeking professional help due to information found here.
Related Readings:
- What is Anxiety? Your Essential Guide
- Wellbutrin for Anxiety: A Beginner's Guide
- Top Breathing Exercises for Anxiety
What is the maximum dose of Lexapro for anxiety?
The maximum recommended dose of Lexapro (escitalopram) for treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in adults is 20 mg once per day. The starting dose is typically 10 mg. However, make sure to speak to your healthcare provider before changing the dose on your medications.
How long does Lexapro take to work for anxiety?
1-2 weeks to notice small improvements in sleep or reduced anxiety. Typically 4-8 weeks to feel the full therapeutic benefits of Lexapro for anxiety.
Is Lexapro good for anxiety?
Yes, Lexapro is considered a highly effective and widely prescribed medication (an SSRI) for treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). It is often a first-line treatment due to its efficacy and generally manageable side effects. However we are all unique and respond to medications differently, speak to your health care provider to find the right anxiety medication for you.
Can you drink while taking Lexapro for anxiety?
No, it is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Lexapro. Alcohol can worsen anxiety symptoms, intensify side effects like drowsiness and dizziness, and potentially reduce the medication's effectiveness. Consult your doctor first.
Is Lexapro for anxiety or depression?
Lexapro (escitalopram) is FDA-approved to treat both major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It can be an effective treatment for both mental health conditions.
How long should you take Lexapro for anxiety?
The duration varies from person to person, but a typical course after symptoms are controlled is 6 to 12 months to prevent relapse. For chronic anxiety, treatment may be longer. Always follow your prescribing doctor's guidance on treatment length and discontinuation.
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