My experience with Lexapro (weight gain and more)

After seeing so many people struggling with this drug, I thought I would give my experience with Lexapro as well.

I started 5mg of Lexapro for anxiety/depression and a possibility of Bipolar Type II back in October of 2023. Immediately, I noticed an improved mood, self-confidence, and lots of positive things. I was also started on the combination birth control pill at the time. (That one definitely made me a raging bitch💀) but after a little bit of taking the Lex, I was bumped up to 10mg. That’s when I started to notice stretch marks.

After a couple months, I managed to gain almost 50 pounds. My hands are constantly swollen, my thighs are huge, and my stomach is now rolls. Stretch marks are all over my shoulders/under my arms, my butt, thighs (really bad😭), and the backs of my legs. I’m 5”11 (female) and should weigh 160-170 but currently weigh 210 pounds. I don’t look FAT but you can absolutely tell that I have gained many pounds.

Just a little over a week ago after a mental breakdown, I decided to stop taking Lexapro and for a week I managed to lose 10 pounds by doing literally nothing. I had to go right back on it due to horrible mental health disorders, and I’m only on 5mg. But after eating just a little bit, I’m back to going above 210 in less than 5 days. Even eating healthier meals and I’m still gaining weight. PLUS regular exercise. Nothing is working y’all. This drug is the actual devil.

I’m now taking Vyvanse for ADD/ADHD and this is very well known for causing low hunger and it definitely has, but this alone is just not helping that much with weight. I heard Wellbutrin is a great combo for combating side effects of SSRI’s, and I’m currently waiting for a response from my psychiatrist about it.

Regarding libido, I’ve definitely noticed a significant decrease of sex drive and difficulty reaching you know what. I’ve only ever had relations while on this drug, and have never known what it’s like without it.

You’re probably thinking, “Why don’t you try something else?” I’ve been on every antidepressant/anti-anxiety/most antipsychotics/and anticonvulsants you can think of. Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, etc…it’s a miracle my psychiatrist hasn’t fired me yet. I’ve been on Seroquel, Effexor, Lamictal, Caplyta, Clonapin, Buspirone, and many more. Idk how I’m still functioning😭🙏🏼

The Lexapro has tremendously helped with anxiety and helping me feel more motivated. That’s the one good thing it’s done for me. I’m also on Opill (progestin only) and it doesn’t cause weight gain or mood problems. It’s just the Lexapro.

I’ll come back here and tell y’all if the Wellbutrin is helping with weight problems and libido. If I even get it (I most likely will). Please share your experiences as well! I’m more than happy to read them❤️and remember, we’ll get through it together.