| |
Drug Uses
Lexapro (Escitalopram) 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 (Escitalopram) is also prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder, a condition marked by excessive worry and anxiety that is hard to control and interferes with daily life. To be diagnosed with this disorder, your symptoms must have lasted at least 6 months and you must have at least three of the following: restlessness, fatigue, poor concentration, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) 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.
How Taken
Lexapro (Escitalopram) comes as a tablet and a liquid taken it orally. It is usually taken once daily and may be taken with or without food. Take Lexapro (Escitalopram) exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Continue to take Lexapro (Escitalopram) even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Lexapro (Escitalopram) without talking to your doctor. This drug must be taken regularly for a few weeks before its full effect is felt.
Warnings
Before taking Lexapro (Escitalopram), tell your doctor if you have liver disease, have kidney disease, suffer from seizures, or suffer from mania or have suicidal thoughts. You may not be able to take Lexapro, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above. Lexapro (Escitalopram) should not be taken during treatment with citalopram (Celexa). Also, if you have had an allergic reaction to citalopram (Celexa), you may also have an allergic reaction to Lexapro (Escitalopram). Do not take Lexapro (Escitalopram) without first talking to your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to either medication in the past. Lexapro (Escitalopram) is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Lexapro (Escitalopram) it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Lexapro (Escitalopram) without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Lexapro (Escitalopram) passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take Lexapro (Escitalopram) without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of Lexapro (Escitalopram) unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Possible Side Effects
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Lexapro (Escitalopram) 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); or
- chills or fever. If you experience any of the following less serious side effects, continue taking Lexapro (Escitalopram) and talk to your doctor:
- headache, tremor, nervousness, or anxiety;
- nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight;
- sleepiness or insomnia; or
- 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.
Storage
Store Lexapro (Escitalopram) at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a Lexapro (Escitalopram) overdose include nausea, vomiting, tremor, drowsiness, dizziness, sweating, and a fast heartbeat.
|
|
