From the Research
The safest way to cross taper from 10 mg of Lexapro to duloxetine is to do so gradually under medical supervision, starting with 10 mg of Lexapo and 30 mg of duloxetine for one week, then reducing Lexapro to 5 mg and increasing duloxetine to 60 mg for another week, and finally discontinuing Lexapro while maintaining duloxetine at 60 mg daily. This approach is supported by the most recent study 1, which highlights the importance of careful monitoring for serotonin syndrome when combining SSRIs with other medications, including SNRIs like duloxetine.
When cross-tapering, it's essential to monitor for side effects like:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Mood changes
The overlap period allows for a smoother neurotransmitter adjustment as both medications affect serotonin systems but through different mechanisms - Lexapro as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and duloxetine as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) 2, 3. Staying hydrated, maintaining regular sleep patterns, and avoiding alcohol during the transition can help reduce side effects.
It's also important to note that SSRIs, including Lexapro, can have adverse effects, such as an increased risk of suicidality in certain populations 2, and that duloxetine has its own set of potential side effects 4, 5. However, the gradual cross-tapering approach recommended here aims to minimize these risks while ensuring a smooth transition between medications.