Lexapro

(Cipralex, Escitalopram, Escitalopram Oxalate, Seroplex, Sipralexa)

What is Lexapro

Lexapro (Cipralex) is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Lexapro affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression.

Lexapro is used to treat depression.

Lexapro may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Lexapro is prescribed for major depression - a persistently low mood that interferes with daily functioning. To be considered major, depression must occur nearly every day for at least two weeks, and must include at least five of the following symptoms: low mood, loss of interest in usual activities, significant change in weight or appetite, change in sleep patterns, agitation or lethargy, fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, slowed thinking or lack of concentration, and thoughts of suicide.

Lexapro - How it works

Lexapro works by boosting levels of serotonin, one of the chief chemical messengers in the brain. The drug is a close chemical cousin of the antidepressant medication Celexa. Other antidepressants that work by raising serotonin levels include Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft.

Lexapro - How to take

Take Lexapro exactly as prescribed, even after you begin to feel better. Although improvement usually begins within 1 to 4 weeks, treatment typically continues for several months. Lexapro is available in tablet and liquid forms and can be taken with or without food.

Lexapro dosage

The recommended dose of Lexapro tablets or oral solution is 10 mg once a day. If necessary, the doctor may increase the dose to 20 mg after a minimum of 1 week, but the higher dose is not recommended for most older adults and people with liver problems.

Lexapro - Missed Dose

Take the forgotten dose of Lexapro as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses of Lexaproat once.

Lexapro Side Effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Lexapro.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking citalopram and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• an irregular heartbeat or pulse;
• low blood pressure (dizziness, weakness);
• high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision);
• chills or fever.

If you experience any of the following less serious side effects, continue taking citalopram and talk to your doctor:

• headache, tremor, nervousness, or anxiety;
• nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight;
• sleepiness or insomnia;
• decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Lexapro - Special warnings

Lexapro makes some people sleepy. Until you know how the drug affects you, use caution when driving a car or operating other hazardous machinery.

In rare cases, Lexapro can trigger mania (unreasonably high spirits and excess energy). If you've ever had this problem, be sure to let the doctor know.

Also make sure that the doctor knows if you have liver problems or severe kidney disease. Your dosage may need adjustment.

You'll be unable to use Lexapro if it causes an allergic reaction, or if you've ever had an allergic reaction to the related drug Celexa. Remember, too, that you must never take Lexapro while taking an MAO inhibitor such as Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate.

Lexapro - food and drug interactions

Do not use Lexapro if you are taking the related drug Celexa. Be sure to avoid MAO inhibitors when taking Lexapro. Although Lexapro does not interact with alcohol, the manufacturer recommends avoiding alcoholic beverages.

If Lexapro is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lexapro with the following:

• Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Desipramine (Norpramin)
• Drugs that act on the brain, including antidepressants, painkillers, sedatives, and tranquilizers
• Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
• Lithium (Eskalith)
• Metoprolol (Lopressor)
• Narcotic painkillers
• Sumatriptan (Imitrex)

Lexapro Storage

Store Lexapro at room temperature.

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