* Lexapro is a brand name of escitalopram. Escitalopram is used to
treat certain conditions associated with mood.
* Experts aren't sure exactly how Lexapro works but believe its
effects are due to its ability to block the reuptake of serotonin
by nerves. This results in an increase in serotonin concentrations
in the nerve synapse (the space between two nerves).
* Lexapro belongs to a class of medicines known as Selective
Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
Upsides
* Used to relieve depression and anxiety in adults, and depression in
teenagers aged 12 through 17.
* Less likely to cause drowsiness than some other antidepressants.
* Has also been used off-label for other conditions such as panic
disorder and post traumatic stress disorder.
* SSRIs in general, are better tolerated than many other medicines
used in the treatment of depression.
* May be more effective with less adverse effects than other SSRIs.
* Lexapro is available as a generic under the name escitalopram.
Downsides
If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or
have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to
experience include:
* Insomnia or drowsiness, sexual dysfunction, nausea, dry mouth, and
increased sweating.
* As with other antidepressants, Lexapro may increase the risk of
suicidal thoughts or behavior; the risk is higher in children and
young adults aged less than 24. Monitor for worsening mood.
* May precipitate a manic episode in people with undiagnosed bipolar
disorder.
* May cause lowering of total body sodium (hyponatremia); elderly
people or people taking diuretics or already dehydrated may be more
at risk.
* May impair judgment and affect your ability to drive or operate
machinery. Avoid alcohol.
* May cause a discontinuation syndrome if abruptly stopped or
interrupted (symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
headaches, dizziness, sweating, chills, tremors, vivid dreams, and
insomnia); taper off dosage slowly over several weeks to months.
* Interaction or overdosage may cause serotonin syndrome (symptoms
include mental status changes [such as agitation, hallucinations,
coma, delirium]), fast heart rate, dizziness, flushing, muscle
tremor or rigidity and stomach symptoms (including nausea,
vomiting, and diarrhea]).
* May increase the risk of bleeding, especially if used with other
drugs that also increase bleeding risk. Rarely associated with
seizures.
* Seek medical advice if a rash develops while taking Lexapro.
Discontinue if a severe allergic reaction to Lexapro occurs and
seek urgent medical advice.
* May interact with a number of other drugs including other
antidepressants, tramadol, bupropion, diuretics, St John's Wort,
and drugs that prolong the QT interval (such as pimozide or
thioridazine).
* May not be suitable for some people including those with glaucoma,
bleeding disorders, a history of seizures, liver or kidney disease,
the elderly, or certain heart conditions. People with diabetes may
need the dosage of their medication adjusted.
Notes: In general, seniors or children, people with certain medical
conditions (such as liver or kidney problems, heart disease, diabetes,
seizures) or people who take other medications are more at risk of
developing a wider range of side effects. For a complete list of all
side effects, [84]click here.
Bottom Line
Lexapro is an effective antidepressant that may have less potential for
adverse effects than other SSRI antidepressants.
Tips
* Take with or without food. Dosage adjustments should be made no
more frequently than weekly - your doctor will advise you on this.
* Do not stop suddenly as withdrawal symptoms may occur.
* Do not drive or operate machinery if this medicine makes you drowsy
or impairs your judgment. Avoid alcohol.
* Be alert for worsening mood and suicide-related thoughts or
behaviors. Seek medical advice if changes are apparent.
* Seek urgent medical advice if symptoms consistent with serotonin
syndrome (such as agitation, hallucinations, fast heart rate,
dizziness, flushing, nausea, diarrhea) develop.
* Talk to your doctor immediately if you develop a rash or seek
urgent medical advice with severe allergy-type symptoms such as
swelling of the face or throat, or shortness of breath.
* Do not take any other medicines, including those bought
over-the-counter, without first consulting a doctor or pharmacist
and asking if the medicine is safe to take with Lexapro.
* Talk with your doctor if you experience any: unusual bruising or
increased bleeding while taking Lexapro, persistent headaches,
confusion, weakness, or unsteadiness resulting in falls.
* Other reasons to visit your doctor include an increase,
irregularity, or slowing of your heart rate or shortness of breath,
eye pain or swelling or visual disturbances, seizures, manic
behavior such as recklessness, racing thoughts, increased energy,
or severe difficulty in sleeping.
Response and Effectiveness
* Peak blood levels are reached approximately 5 hours after a dose
but it may take up to a week for levels to become stabilized in the
body. An improvement in depressive or anxiety symptoms may not be
noticed for 1-4 weeks. Treatment should be continued as directed
even after improvement.
References
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