Product information
Drug name: Lexapro
Generic name: Escitalopram Oxalate
Lexapro dosage: 5mg, 10mg, 20mg
Formulation: Tablet
What is Lexapro used for?
This antidepressant is an SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor). The serotonin equilibrium in the brain is restored with Lexapro. It may also boost energy and happiness while lowering anxiety.
Lexapro is taken once a day, with or without meals, by mouth. Escitalopram Oxalate, the generic equivalent. The dose is determined by the patient’s condition and reaction, as well as his or her age and other drugs.
To decrease the danger of adverse effects, doctors begin with a low dose and gradually raise it to the required level. Increase the dose or frequency as needed, but do not use it for longer than recommended. It won’t make things better any faster, but it will raise the chance of adverse effects. It might take up to two weeks for any effects to appear, and up to four weeks for the full effects to appear.
Even if you feel fine, keep taking your prescription. Lexapro withdrawal might occur if you suddenly stop using it. Irritability
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Nightmares
- Headache
- Paresthesia
Your doctor will gradually reduce the dosage in order to help you quit. Taking steps to reduce the likelihood of withdrawals.
Using Lexapro
Before use, consult your prescribing doctor if you have a personal/family history of:
- Bipolar/manic-depressive disorder
- Suicide attempts
- Liver disease
- Seizures
- Intestinal ulcers/bleeding
- Bleeding problems
- Low sodium in blood
- Glaucoma
Dizziness and sleepiness are possible side effects of this drug. These symptoms can also be brought on by drinking alcohol or using marijuana. Until it is safe to do so, do not drive, operate machinery, or engage in any other activity that requires attention. It is not recommended to combine Lexapro and alcohol. Cannabis use should be discussed with a doctor.
QT prolongation, lack of coordination, hemorrhage, and low salt levels in the blood are all more common in older individuals. Loss of appetite and weight loss are more common adverse effects in children.
Lexapro weight gain is perfectly natural. It’s possible that it’s caused by an increase in serotonin, which can make people eat more.
Some interaction include:
- Other drugs that can cause bleeding/bruising
- Aspirin
- MAO inhibitors
- Other drugs affecting serotonin
- Alcohol
- Cannabis
- Antihistamines
- Sleep/anxiety meds
- Muscle relaxants
- Opioid pain relievers
- Amiodarone
- Pimozide
- Procainamide
- Quinidine
- Sotalol
- Citalopram
Lexapro Side Effects:
Common:
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Trouble sleeping
- Constipation
- Tiredness
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Increased sweating
These are the most likely Lexapro side effects first week of use as well.
Serious:
- Decreased sex drive
- Change in sexual ability
- Easy bruising/bleeding
- Bloody/black/tarry stool
- Fainting
- Fast/irregular heartbeat
- Coffee grounds looking vomit
- Seizures
- Eye pain/swelling/redness
- Widened pupils
- Vision changes
- Serotonin syndrome/toxicity
- Painful/prolonged erections (lasting 4+ hours)
- Allergic reaction
Most side effects will improve after the first week except sexual side effects.