Lexapro (escitalipram) is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It can be used alone or with other medications. Lexapro belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Lexapro (escitalopram) Tablet Uses
Lexapro is primarily used to treat depression and anxiety by helping to restore the balance of serotonin in the brain. It can improve energy levels and overall well-being and reduce nervousness.
Conditions Lexapro used to Treat
Major depressive disorder (MDD)
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Secondary Uses of Lexapro
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) (off-label)
Panic disorder
Social anxiety disorder
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
How to Use Lexapro
Read Instructions: Read the Medication Guide and Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking Lexapro and each time you get a refill.
Dosage: Take this medicine orally with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once a day in the morning or evening.
Liquid Form: If using the liquid form, measure your dose with a special device/spoon, not a household spoon.
Start Low: Your doctor may start you at a low dose and gradually increase it to reduce the risk of side effects.
Consistency: Take Lexapro at the same time each day for the best effect. Do not increase your dose or take it more frequently than prescribed.
Do Not Stop Abruptly: Continue taking this medicine even if you feel well. SStopping suddenly can worsen your condition or cause withdrawal symptoms.
Dosage of Lexapro (escitalopram)
Typical Dosage Instructions
Adults (Depression/Anxiety): 10 mg once daily; may increase to 20 mg after a week if needed.
Elderly or liver-impaired patients: Start with 5 mg once daily.
Taken with or without food, usually in the morning or evening.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
Take it as soon as you remember
Skip it if it's close to your next dose
Do not double dose
What Happens If an Overdose?
Symptoms of overdose:
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Nausea or vomiting
Rapid heartbeat
Seizures (in severe cases)
Seek immediate medical attention in case of overdose
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Lexapro (escitalopram) is good for the treatment of depression and anxiety. It is generally well-tolerated and has fewer drug interactions than other antidepressants.
Within the first 1-2 weeks, sleep, energy, and appetite can all improve. A significant early indication that the drug is working may be a change in these physical symptoms. It can take up to 6-8 weeks to completely boost the depressed mood and loss of interest in activities.
When taking Lexapro, an individual can gain weight. For various reasons, this can happen. Lexapro increases serotonin, which plays a part in weight management. The drug may increase the appetite directly, or as their depression or anxiety decreases, a person may begin to eat more.
Lexapro is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor that is selective (SSRI). SSRIs function to retain higher serotonin levels in the brain by slowing the reabsorption of serotonin back into nerve cells. Serotonin is a hormone that aids in the control of mood, pleasure, and well-being.
Escitalopram, like Lexapro, is a well-tolerated drug. The medical community may view it as one that slows down the brain's functioning. It is not related to short-term memory loss, and its effects on the brain are not concrete in different study findings.
Researchers claim that some, but not all, antidepressant drugs are known as SSRIs pose a very small but severe heart risk. According to a new study the drugs citalopram and escitalopram can cause heart rhythm disturbances.
Escitalopram can be taken at any time of day as long as you take it at the same time every day. It's best to take it first thing in the morning if you have trouble sleeping.
Lexapro can lead to a disorder of impotence and ejaculation. Celexa and Lexapro both have the ability to cause even more severe side effects. Abnormal bleeding, seizures and vision issues are severe side effects. A black box warning for an increased risk of suicide is required by the FDA on drug labels.
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a more refined version of Celexa (citalopram). Both treat depression and anxiety, but Lexapro may cause fewer side effects and work at lower doses.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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