Uses

Lexapro (escitalopram) is a SSRI(Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor). It works by helping to balance the natural neurotransmitter called serotonin within the brain, achieving beneficial effects in the treatment of depression.

How to Use

Take this medication by mouth with water, it can be taken with or without food.

If stomach upset occurs, you can take it with food or milk to decrease this effect.

Take it exactly as directed, do not take it more than directed.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only that next dose. Do not double up on any dose.

Do not suddenly stop taking this medication suddenly or without consulting with your doctor.

Important Information

It may take a few weeks before this medication begins to work. Do not stop taking it unless directed by your doctor.

Inform your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.

It is important to be monitored for mood changes or development of depression or suicidal thoughts while taking this medication. Report effects like these to your healthcare provider right away. Also monitor for aggression, hostility, agitation, and other mood changes.

This medication can make your mouth dry, drinking water, chewing sugarless gum, or sucking on candy can help to decrease this side effect.

Do not operate heavy machinery, drive a car, or engage in other activity that requires fine motor skills until you are sure of how this medication affects you.

Stand and sit slowly first first starting this medication to avoid dizziness.

Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication

Bipolar disorder, diabetes, glaucoma, heart disease, kidney or liver disease, seizures, all heart conditions, allergy history, pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to become pregnant.

Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider

Allergic reaction(hives, itching, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, seizures, hallucinations, excitability, fast talking, suicidal thoughts or mood changes, unusual bleeding or bruising, confusion, falls or lightheadedness.

Other Side Effects

Libido changes, appetite changes, blurred vision, headache, nausea, sweating.

Adult Doses

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

10 mg by mouth daily as a starting dose. The dose may be increased to 20 mg by mouth per day if required after at least one week.

Depression

10 mg by mouth daily as a starting dose. The dose maybe increased to 20 mg by mouth per day if required after at least one week.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

10-20 mg by mouth daily.

Sources

1. Burke WJ, Gergel I, Bose A. Fixed-dose trial of the single isomer SSRI escitalopram in depressed outpatients. J Clin Psychiatry 2002;63:331-336.

2. Lexapro ® Oral solution, Oral tablets, escitalopram oxalate Oral solution, Oral tablets. St Louis, MO: Forest Laboratories, Inc; 2009.