Lexapro is a common type of depression and anxiety medication that is a form of SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). Lexapro is a safe and effective prescription that can greatly help treat symptoms of depression and anxiety. Yet, many people who are prescribed Lexapro may be concerned with the long-term effects of taking the medication, such as how addictive it is. In this article, you’ll learn more about Lexapro and is Lexapro addictive below.
At East Coast Recovery Center, we are a top-rated recovery center in Massachusetts that provides a wide variety of addiction treatment options and programs so you can receive the personalized care you need to lead a healthier, happier life. You should never have to learn to suffer in silence with your addiction– help is available! Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you lead a healthier life.
What is Lexapro & Is Lexapro Addictive?
Millions of people struggle with depression and anxiety each year, according to the World Health Organization. Although depression and anxiety are common, this does not mean you have to learn to live with your symptoms alone. There are a variety of treatment options available to help you better manage your symptoms, including taking a prescription medication called Lexapro. As mentioned above, Lexapro is a type of SSRI that works to essentially block the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which inevitably increases your serotonin levels and can lead to improvements in your mood.
Therefore, is Lexapro addictive? The short answer is no. While one can become psychologically dependent on the medication and experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the medication, Lexapro is not physically addictive such as addictive drugs like cocaine or opioids. However, along with any other prescription medication you are taking over the long term, it’s important to talk with your doctor about your questions, concerns, and potentially other long-term alternatives you may consider to get off Lexapro.
Signs You May Be Struggling with Drug Addiction
As you can see, to answer the question “is Lexapro addictive”, the short answer is no; however, one can become psychologically dependent on the prescription medication. While this does not mean you should not be taking the medication, it is an important factor to consider and ask your doctor.
Whether you are taking a prescription medication like Lexapro, or abusing drugs like alcohol, cocaine, heroin, or another addictive substance, it’s essential to understand the common signs of drug addiction to look out for. Below are some signs and symptoms of drug addiction to look out for:
- Physical Changes: If you’ve experienced a significant change in your appetite, have changes in sleep, or are not taking care of your personal hygiene while abusing a substance, you may be struggling with an addiction.
- Losing Interest in Activities You Once Enjoyed: If you no longer find enjoyment in hobbies or activities you once liked, this is another common drug addiction sign.
- Behavioral Changes: Some behavior changes like getting irritated easily or mood swings are more addiction signs to look out for.
- Inability to Stop Abusing the Substance: If you are unable to quit abusing a drug, even after acknowledging you have a problem and attempting to quit, this is a sign of addiction.
- Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms When You Stop Abusing the Drug: If you experience physical withdrawal symptoms such as vomiting, headaches, or insomnia, these are more signs you may be struggling with a drug addiction.
Help Is Available
Now you more about the question “is Lexapro addictive”. While Lexapro is not physically addictive, such as in the case of people struggling with cocaine or heroin addiction, after long-term use of Lexapro some people may experience psychological withdrawal symptoms if they stop using the medication. This is why it’s important to talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have with your Lexapro medication.
At East Coast Recovery Center, we are a top-rated drug rehab committed to helping patients overcome their addiction and achieve long-term sobriety. We understand each patient’s recovery journey is uniquely different. That’s why we offer a wide range of mental health and addiction treatment options so you can receive the right care for your unique recovery needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your recovery journey.
