The antidepressant Lexapro belongs to the category of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Lexapro is used for the treatment of depression and anxiety disorder. Lexapro is administered orally in the form of a tablet, normally once daily, with or without food. Follow your doctor’s instructions strictly and do not take Lexapro more often than directed. Do not terminate the treatment with Lexapro without consulting your doctor first even if your condition improves. In order for the full effect of Lexapro to be felt, it must be taken regularly for a few weeks.
Warnings Precautions
If you suffer from liver or kidney disease, have seizures, mania or suicidal thoughts, notify your doctor before taking Lexapro. Dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment may be required if you suffer from any of the above-listed conditions. In some cases, treatment with Lexapro may not be recommended at all. Lexapro should not be combined with citalopram (Celexa). If you have ever had an allergic reaction to citalopram (Celexa), it may mean that you are also allergic to Lexapro. If you have had an allergic reaction to either medication in the past, do not use Lexapro without consulting your doctor first. Lexapro is in the C FDA pregnancy category, meaning that its effects on the fetus are unknown. If you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment, consult your doctor before using Lexapro. Also consult your doctor if you are breast-feeding as Lexapro is passed onto breast milk and may affect nursing infants.
Missing a Dose
In case of missing a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed if it is almost time for your next dose. Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, do not take 2 doses at once.
Possible Side Effects
Discontinue the treatment with Lexapro, contact your doctor or seek medical help immediately in case you experience any of the following side effects:
an allergic reaction (difficulty in breathing; throat congestion; 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. Continue taking Lexapro and consult your doctor if any of the following, less severe side effects appear: 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. There may be other side effects besides the ones listed above. If any unusual side effects appear or are particularly irritating, consult your doctor whether to continue the treatment.
Storage
Store Lexapro at room temperature, and do not expose to moisture and heat.
Overdose
The symptoms of a Lexapro overdose include nausea, vomiting, tremor, drowsiness, dizziness, sweating, and a fast heartbeat. In case of experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
More Information
In case of a known sensitivity or an allergic reaction to any component of Lexapro, do not use the medication for treatment.
Lexapro resources:
http://www.drugs.com/lexapro.html
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/lexapro.htm
http://www.medicinenet.com/escitalopram/article.htm
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