Medically Reviewed by Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jun 20, 2022

Common Questions


Common Questions about Lexapro (escitalopram)


Lexapro the same as Xanax?

No, Lexapro (escitalopram) and Xanax (alprazolam) are two different medications. Lexapro is an SSRI and Xanax is a benzodiazepine. They are both used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you. 



How much does Lexapro cost with insurance?

The generic version of Lexapro (escitalopram) is an inexpensive drug with insurance coverage from most plans, including Medicare. A BuzzRx discount card or Lexapro coupon can help you save money with lower prices if you’re a cash-paying customer. Prices can be as low as $12 for a 30-day supply of the medicine with a BuzzRx discount card. 



What time of day should I take Lexapro?

You can take Lexapro in the morning or evening. Take your medicine at around the same time every day so that it’s easy to remember. If Lexapro makes it hard for you to sleep, it might help if you take it in the morning.



Does Lexapro work immediately for anxiety?

No, it usually takes 4-6 weeks for Lexapro to have an effect, although some symptoms of anxiety and depression may start improving in 1-2 weeks. The full benefits of this medicine can take up to 12 weeks to develop. 



Can Lexapro cause weight gain?

Weight changes are a possible side effect of Lexapro. Some people can gain weight on this medicine, and others might lose weight. Weight changes can also occur indirectly if you begin to eat more as your anxiety and depression ease. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can help offset any weight changes caused by Lexapro.



What happens when you drink alcohol with Lexapro?

Doctors say it is okay to drink moderately while on treatment with SSRIs like Lexapro. Moderate alcohol intake is defined as 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink for women. Keep in mind that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by Lexapro. You should be careful while driving until you know how the combination of Lexapro and alcohol affects you.



What is the price of Lexapro without insurance?

Without insurance, Lexapro can be as high as $71.57 (generic), but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $7.83 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not. 



What is the price of Lexapro with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on Lexapro—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for Lexapro. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.