Description
Generic Name: escitalopram oxalate
Drug Class: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
Lexapro Indications
Lexapro is an oral prescription drug used as an acute or maintenance treatment for major depressive disorder or MDD. In addition, it has been shown to be effective in treating acute generalized anxiety disorder.
Dosage Forms
This is available in Lexapro 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets.
Lexapro Mechanism of Action
This SSRI inhibits the neuronal reuptake of serotonin by potentiating the serotonergic activity in the central nervous system. As a result, it facilitates the restoration of the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
How to Take Linzess
Before you start taking this medication, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take any medication unless you have understood the uses and directions. Request more medical advice or information from your doctor or pharmacist.
Lexapro is only meant to be taken by mouth. This is usually prescribed once a day, in the morning or the evening. After swallowing the tablet, drink plenty of water. It can be consumed with or without food.
Make a dosing schedule. Do not increase or decrease your Lexapro dosage. You should not also take this oral drug more frequently than advised and do not stop taking it abruptly to avoid Lexapro withdrawal.
Lexapro Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Dizziness
-Drowsiness
-Nausea
-Dry mouth
-Tiredness
-Trouble sleeping
-Increased sweating constipation
Severe Side Effects:
-Sexual dysfunction
-Easy bruising or bleeding
-Seizures
-Irregular heartbeat
-Eye pain
-Widened pupils
-Vision changes
-Priapism
-Serotonin syndrome
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Lexapro.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and call your doctor or any health care professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to escitalopram, citalopram, or any inactive ingredients it may contain. Always be watchful for any signs of serious allergic reactions, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. Stop using this oral medication and seek emergency medical treatment right away if this happens.
Lexapro may be contraindicated for people with a history of bipolar disorder, suicide attempts, GI ulcers, seizures, liver disease, bleeding problems, hyponatremia, liver disease, and glaucoma. Also, due to possible drug interactions, you should discuss all the prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
This oral drug can cause QT prolongation, which could be considered a medical emergency. Symptoms are severe dizziness and fainting. You may prevent this by staying hydrated and avoiding water pills. You should also be monitored for low levels of potassium and magnesium in the blood, as they may also lead to QT prolongation.
Dizziness, drowsiness, and vision changes are among the side effects of this SSRI. You should practice safety caution when doing tasks that require clear vision and alertness, especially driving. Further, Lexapro and alcohol can interact and worsen your symptoms or adverse effects. Restrict your alcohol consumption while on this treatment.
Patients taking this oral drug for major depressive disorder should be monitored for suicidal ideations. Call your local suicide hotline once you observe sudden changes in behavior, altered sleeping patterns, social withdrawal, giving away important belongings, and lack of interest in pleasurable activities.
Pregnant moms must avoid this oral drug as it is known to cause harm to unborn babies. The same goes for breastfeeding moms because it can also pass into the breastmilk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Lexapro used for?
This oral prescription is approved for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It improves feelings of well-being and energy level.
2. What does Lexapro do for anxiety?
This medication helps restore the balance of natural substances in the brain. People with anxiety notice improvement of symptoms with regular use of this drug.
3. Do you gain weight on Lexapro?
Yes, there is a link between Lexapro & weight gain. You may gain about 10 pounds or more while on this medication.
4. Is it hard to get off Lexapro?
Your doctor will slowly taper down your dosage to be able to get off this drug without antidepressant withdrawal. Symptoms of withdrawal are appetite changes, dizziness, headache, confusion, insomnia, fever, and “brain zaps”.
5. What are the initial side effects of Lexapro?
Among the Lexapro side effects (first week) are headache, nausea, dry mouth, sweating, fatigue, and nervousness. If these initial adverse effects worsen, you must talk to your doctor.
6. Can I get Lexapro online?
You may purchase this product from our online pharmacy. You can get this prescription drug by providing a valid prescription from your physician.
7. How much does a 30-day supply of Lexapro cost?
You may check the pricing of this product by clicking here. Get the best deals when you buy your prescription drugs from Pharma Passport.