Talk to your prescriber before changing your dose
Do not stop Lexapro suddenly unless your clinician tells you to
Follow a gradual taper plan based on your current dose and how long you have taken it
Common tapering approach: reduce the dose slowly in small steps every 1 to 4 weeks
If you are on a higher dose, taper more slowly
If you have taken Lexapro for a long time, taper more slowly
If you have had withdrawal symptoms before, taper more slowly
Use the lowest available tablet strength or a liquid formulation if needed for smaller dose reductions
Keep a daily log of mood, sleep, anxiety, dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms
If withdrawal symptoms appear, hold the current dose longer before making the next reduction
If symptoms are severe, contact your prescriber promptly
Seek urgent help if you have suicidal thoughts, severe depression, agitation, or confusion
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs during tapering
Keep regular follow-up appointments during the taper
Do not change other psychiatric medications at the same time unless directed by your clinician
If you miss doses, ask your prescriber how to handle them safely
Ask your pharmacist about pill-splitting or liquid dosing options
Do not restart or adjust the dose on your own without medical advice