Increasing dosage on Escitalopram

Good evening

I’m doing well after 8 weeks on 10 mgs of Escitalopram (Lexapro). In the UK 10 mgs seems to be the usual dosage prescribed for moderate GAD. I’m wondering what the benefits are of increasing the dosage as a lot of people (mainly outside UK) seem to do this. Is it because 10 mgs becomes less effective - depression & anxiety returns - or because a higher dosage makes you feel more euphoric etc? The only ‘negative’ effect I’m getting at current dosage is difficulty getting up in the morning - which is strange for me as a previous early waker - and maybe a bit less energy. Be good to hear personal experiences of the difference between 10 mgs and 20 mgs!

Many thanks for any feedback 😊

[Agora1]

Hi s l f, as you know I had an increase within the last several months,

from 15mg to 20mg. I've never had sleepiness at any dose. I still continue

to take it with my lunch. Food allows it to work better. xx

[Hidden in reply to Agora1]

Hi Agora. Thanks for responding. I take mine with food and no issues. Why did you personally increase your dose - because the lower dose stopped working or because it never got to full efficacy in dealing with your condition? Basically I’m doing really good but could a higher dosage make me feel even better?!!! I really appreciate your input and hope you are feeling tip-top!! 😊

[Agora1 in reply to Hidden]

I was on 15mg for years (6 years) Situational anxiety from daughter's anorexia

caused my anxiety to break through some. That is when my psych doc raised

the dose to 20mg. Doing great. xx

[Hidden in reply to Agora1]

Makes sense. Basically I think what you’re saying is that I’d know if I needed a higher dosage - a trigger outside the usual range such as what happened with you. Thank you for sharing. I hope your daughter is doing okay. X

[Agora1 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you xx

[Hidden in reply to Agora1]

Hi Agora1 does taking lexapro with food really allow it to work better? I take mine on an empty stomach.

[Agora1 in reply to Hidden]

You know Bobbyabby, I was started on Lexapro when I was in the hospital

and that is what the nurse had implied. So that's just how I've continued

over the years. Whatever works for you is right. xx