What is Lexapro?
Lexapro (Escitalopram Oxalate) is a medication that treats major depressive disorder in children of at least the age of 12 and adults. The drug belongs to the group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and its active component, escitalopram, affects special unbalanced chemicals in the brain of patients suffering from depression.
Lexapro has to be taken regularly, usually at the same time every day. This way you wont miss your dose. However, if that has happened, take your scheduled dose as soon as you remember, but never double it, especially if it is almost the time for your next tablet.
Before starting the treatment with Lexapro it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider to ensure you are not allergic to the active component of the medication or dont have any other health problems. Inform your doctor if you have had any of the below mentioned conditions:
Dont use Lexapro in a combination with injections of methylene blue and pimozide. Besides, you doctor will recommend to refrain from its intake if you have taken MAO inhibitors (selegiline, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, linezolid, rasagiline) during the last two weeks as there may be severe drug interaction. Young people may start having suicidal thoughts after the first intake of Lexapro, thats why its advisable to monitor mood changes and keep up with regular visits to the doctor.Children who are younger than 12 are prohibited to use this antidepressant.
Lexapro, just like other drugs, may cause the following side effects:
Recommendations for Use
When undergoing treatment with Lexapro, its advisable to follow doctors advice and not to change the dose or stop the intake. 
Precautions and Contraindications
- Liver disease;
- Hyponatremia (low blood sodium);
- History of manic depressive or bipolar disorder;
- History of suicide attempts or suicidal thoughts;
- History of glaucoma;
- Peptic ulcer disease;
- Bleeding problems, etc.
The active component of Lexapro, escitalopram, might affect the heart rhythm causing QT prolongation which may result in irregular or fast heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness, etc. These symptoms require urgent medical attention and must be reported as soon as possible.
Before starting Lexapro you need to talk to your doctor about all the health conditions you are suffering from as well as all other meds you are currently taking. Do not drive, operate machinery or make other actions that need you to be alert after using Lexapro as it might cause drowsiness. Do not stop the medication abruptly and without doctors notice because depression and other mental disorders are considered to be rather serious conditions and have to be treated till successful result. It isnt recommended to use the drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but if you are planning to become pregnant, you need to consult your doctor and discuss further treatment.
Drug Interactions
Side Effects
- Allergic reactions (rash, swelling of the throat, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing, etc.);
- Panic attacks;
- Insomnia;
- Drowsiness;
- Mood changes;
- Weight changes;
- Vision changes;
- Nausea;
- Sex-related issues (low libido, impotence) and others.