"i was prescribed lexapro 5 mg for perimenopausal rages and major depressive disorder.  considering this is my first anti-depressant, i cautiously started with half a tablet (2.5mg).  the side effects were horrible: severe dizziness, headaches, nausea, and confusion.  i could not function at work.  overtime, my depression, angry outbursts, rumination worsened and started to affect my interaction with coworkers.  i decided to give lexapro another try and start with 1/4 of a tablet (1.25 mg).  i took the lexapro at bedtime, and in the morning, i was the happiest i&#039;ve been in months, no anxiety, no negative repetitive thoughts.  this is a strong drug.  my recommendation is to start slowly to avoid severe side effects and then increase if needed"