Talk to your prescriber before changing your dose
Do not stop Lexapro suddenly unless your prescriber tells you to
Follow a gradual taper plan based on your current dose, how long you have taken it, and your symptoms
Common taper steps may include reducing the dose in small increments every 1 to 4 weeks
If you have been on Lexapro for a long time or at a higher dose, taper more slowly
If you develop withdrawal symptoms, pause the taper or go back to the previous dose and contact your prescriber
Watch for symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, irritability, anxiety, sleep changes, or “brain zaps”
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs during tapering if possible
Keep a daily log of mood, sleep, and physical symptoms
Use the same dosing time each day while tapering
Ask about liquid Lexapro or tablet splitting for smaller dose reductions
Seek urgent help if you have suicidal thoughts, severe mood changes, or symptoms that feel dangerous
Do not taper on your own if you are pregnant, have bipolar disorder, or are taking other psychiatric medications without medical guidance