A one-year FDA clinical trial published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine showed that some patients developed hypertension or high blood pressure while taking Lexapro, the brand name version of the antidepressant Escitalopram oxalate. The U.S. National Library of medicine also lists hypertensive crises or sudden periods of dangerously high blood pressure levels as side effects of Lexapro use voluntarily reported to the FDA by patients taking the drugs.

On the Other: Factor in Statistics

In the FDA clinical trial that revealed high blood pressure as a side effect of Lexapro, less than 1 percent of participants suffered hypertension, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. The agency also cautions that there is not enough data to decisively conclude that Lexapro was the cause of the hypertensive crises experienced by patients. Because the reports were given on a voluntary basis outside of a clinical setting, the patients who made these claims may have suffered from other conditions that led to the severe spike in blood pressure levels.

Bottom Line

While it is possible for Lexapro to cause high blood pressure, the frequency of the side effect is relatively low. If you are taking Lexapro and are worried about your blood pressure or have had a high pressure reading during a physical exam, talk to your doctor about whether or not the antidepressant is the cause.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Escitalopram

U.S. National Library of Medicine DailyMed: Lexapro