Lexapro side effects: Is breast tenderness common?

I'm taking Lexapro, and my breasts seem unusually tender to the touch. For women, do Lexapro side effects include breast tenderness?

- No name / No state given

Answer

Escitalopram (Lexapro) is a prescription drug commonly used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. Although breast tenderness isn't among the published Lexapro side effects, informal reports associating Lexapro with breast tenderness have been circulated online.

Rarely, Lexapro is known to interfere with the normal processing of prolactin — a hormone that affects breast tissue. It's possible that this hormonal influence could lead to breast tenderness.

More commonly, Lexapro side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbances, such as sleepiness or insomnia
• Increased sweating
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Sexual problems, such as ejaculation disorders or decreased interest in sex

To determine what may be causing the breast tenderness, consult your doctor. He or she will consider any possible underlying causes for your symptoms. The investigation may include tapering and then discontinuing the Lexapro for a period of time — which should only be done under your doctor's supervision. If the breast tenderness seems to be related to the medication, your doctor may recommend another antidepressant.

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