How fast can I taper off 20mg of Lexapro?

[MichMiller7]

Hello all. I have been taking 20mg of Lexapro for about 6 dos (and 10mg for about 8 mos before that). I've taken the same meds before, but don't recall how I weaned myself off. I need to get off this medication ASAP because it has made me gain weight and I fear is preventing me from losing (it is imperative that I lose it for my well being). I am ok to discontinue, my mental health is stable and all is well, but how fast can I do so? I've cut down to 15mg for the past 3 days, but would like to stop totally within two or so weeks. Can I safely get away with another 4 days of 15mg then 4 days of 10mg, 3 days of 5mg, then nothing? Many thanks for support and advice! x

[Paxiled]

First of all, you should be doing this under your psychiatrist's supervision.  The minimum taper they use is generally six weeks, but different docs use different tapers and most aren't very clued in about it.  The best answer I've seen is, it takes as long as it takes.  I wouldn't risk a fast taper personally, but I'm not you.  If you're quick cutting down so far has produced no withdrawal symptoms, that's a positive sign.  But this stuff can hit you after you've quit, so you just never know.  But again, it's your life, if gaining weight is worse to you than the risk of a horrid withdrawal, then go for it.  If it's not, then don't.  Hope you have an easy one.