If your doctor has mentioned Lexapro for anxiety or depression, you probably have a lot of questions. How do you actually get the medication? What dose should you start with? And can you keep the cost down? This guide breaks down the whole process in plain language so you can feel confident about your next steps.
The first step is a visit to a healthcare professional – a primary‑care doctor, psychiatrist, or even a qualified telehealth provider. Be ready to talk about your symptoms, medical history, and any other meds you take. Doctors usually start with a low dose (often 10 mg) to see how you respond, then may increase it after a week or two.
If you prefer an online visit, many reputable telehealth platforms let you fill out a questionnaire and have a video call with a licensed clinician. When the provider signs off, they’ll send the prescription directly to a pharmacy of your choice. This saves time and often avoids a trip to the clinic.
Lexapro (escitalopram) comes in 5 mg and 10 mg tablets. Most adults start at 10 mg once daily, taken with or without food. Some people need a higher dose of 20 mg, but that decision is always doctor‑driven. Consistency is key – try to take it at the same time each day, preferably in the morning if it makes you a bit more alert.
Don’t stop suddenly. If you’ve been on Lexapro for a few weeks or more, talk to your doctor about tapering down to avoid withdrawal symptoms like dizziness or mood swings. A gradual reduction over a few weeks is the safest route.
Common side effects include mild nausea, headache, or a dry mouth. Most of these fade after the first couple of weeks. If you notice severe anxiety, panic, or thoughts of self‑harm, call your doctor right away.
Lexapro can be pricey, but there are ways to cut the cost. First, ask your doctor if a generic version (escitalopram) is available – it’s usually much cheaper and works the same. Second, compare prices at different pharmacies; some big‑box stores and online mail‑order services offer lower prices than local drugstores.
Many discount cards are free and can shave 30‑70% off the retail price. Look for programs like GoodRx, SingleCare, or your insurance’s preferred pharmacy network. If you have insurance, make sure the pharmacy you choose is in‑network to avoid extra fees.
For those without insurance, consider a 90‑day supply – the per‑pill cost drops significantly compared to a month‑by‑month refill.
Finally, keep an eye out for coupons that manufacturers sometimes issue for brand‑name Lexapro. Even a small discount can add up over a year.
In short, getting Lexapro is straightforward once you know the steps: talk to a qualified provider, follow the prescribed dosage, and use cost‑saving tools to keep your bill low. If anything feels off, reach out to your doctor – they’re there to help you feel better safely.
