Lexapro and most antidepressants cause weight gain. It is an unfortunate side effect/
My memory of the week or so I could tolerate it, was a relief from pain. A good thing, as I could resume an exercise routine. In my case it caused diarrhea...as an anal cancer survivor...this was enough to stop it immediately.
Ask your doctor which medicines are least likely to have this unwanted side effect. Every system is different and it may be that another drug would work for you without weight gain.
Last thing: it is a bit mysterious to me how some antidepressants cause an immediate bloaty weight gain (Elavil), and others sneak up on you ...Effexor gave me 50 lbs of extra weight in a year's time..lol.
Lexapro was probably the shittiest drug I've ever taken besides Cymbalta. I gained 8 pounds in 2 weeks and I knew it was the Lexapro because my eating habits haven't changed. I talked to my doctor I got switched to Wellbutrin. It's not and SSRI but it is an appetite suppressant and seemed to have helped me more than the SSRIs I've taken.