What Is Lexapro?
Lexapro (escitalopram) is an antidepressant medication of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. It works by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. Lexapro is used to treat depression and anxiety in adults. It is also used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder in children and adolescents.
Coffee and Lexapro
It is not advised to drink coffee while taking Lexapro, as it can result in increased levels of caffeine in the body. Caffeine can enhance the side effects of Lexapro, such as restlessness, headache, anxiety, and insomnia. Drinking coffee while taking Lexapro could cause the effects of Lexapro to be exacerbated.
Consuming large amounts of caffeine, especially from coffee, can result in serotonin syndrome, which is an overdose of serotonin. It is linked to fatigue, confusion, and muscle weakness. It can be dangerous for people with existing mental health conditions. People taking Lexapro should reduce their caffeine intake.
What Are the Risks of Mixing Lexapro and Coffee?
The risks of mixing Lexapro and coffee include increased anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness. These side effects can be more intense when coffee and Lexapro are taken together. The risk of serotonin syndrome is also present, which can lead to serious mental health problems.
The symptoms of serotonin syndrome can be difficult to distinguish from the side effects of Lexapro alone. Therefore, people taking Lexapro should be cautious of drinking coffee and should talk to their doctor if they experience any of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as confusion, muscle weakness, and fatigue.
What Are the Alternatives to Drinking Coffee with Lexapro?
There are many alternatives to drinking coffee with Lexapro. Some alternatives include decaffeinated coffee or tea, herbal teas, fruit juices, and sparkling water.
It is important to still drink enough fluids when taking Lexapro. Drinking plenty of water can help reduce the side effects of Lexapro, such as dizziness, anxiety, and insomnia. Eating foods that are rich in tryptophan, such as fish, eggs, nuts, and legumes, can also help improve mood.
Expert Perspectives
Experts advise that people should not drink coffee while taking Lexapro, as it can increase the side effects of the medication.
Dr. Janice Bzdek, MD, advises that people should instead opt for decaffeinated coffee or tea, herbal teas, fruit juices, or sparkling water. She also recommends drinking plenty of water and eating foods that are rich in tryptophan.
Dr. Hencilda Grady, MD, agrees that people should not drink caffeinated beverages while taking Lexapro. She explains that caffeine can increase the effects of the medication and can lead to serotonin syndrome. She advises people to speak to their doctor if they experience any of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome while taking Lexapro.
Research
Research suggests that caffeine can enhance the side effects of SSRI medications, such as Lexapro. A study conducted by the Mayo Clinic found that participants who took an SSRI medication and consumed 250 mg of caffeine (the equivalent of two to three cups of coffee) experienced an increase in side effects, such as restlessness, insomnia, headache, and anxiety.
In another study, participants who took SSRI medications and consumed 500 mg of caffeine (the equivalent of four or five cups of coffee) experienced an increase in the severity of their mental health symptoms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is not advised to drink coffee while taking Lexapro, as it can result in an increase in side effects and an increased risk of serotonin syndrome. People taking Lexapro should opt for decaffeinated coffee or tea, herbal teas, fruit juices, and sparkling water. They should also drink plenty of water and eat foods that are rich in tryptophan, such as fish, eggs, nuts, and legumes. It is essential to speak to a doctor if any of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome are experienced while taking Lexapro.
