Drug Uses

Lexapro is an antidepressant from the group of medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder.

How Taken

Lexapro is available in the form of a tablet and a liquid that are taken orally. The medicine is commonly taken once a day with or without food. You should use the medicine exactly as instructed. Do not take more or less tables than prescribed and do not take the medicine more often than instructed. Do not stop using the medicine even if you feel better and without a consultation with your doctor. The achievement of the medicine's full effect requires a regular usage for a period of a few weeks.

Warnings/Precautions

Before using Lexapro, you should inform your doctor if you have liver disease, have kidney disease, suffer from seizures, or suffer from mania or have suicidal thoughts. If you suffer from any of the above-mentioned conditions, you may not been able to use Lexapro or your dosage may have to be adjusted, or you may have to be monitored during the treatment. Lexapro should not be used during a therapy with citalopram (Celexa). You may be allergic to Lexapro if you have had an allergic reaction to citalopram (Celexa). Lexapro falls into the FDA category C which means that it is not clear if is harmful for a fetus. Talk to your doctor before using Lexapro in case you are pregnant or may become pregnant during the therapy with the medicine. Also, consult your doctor before taking the medicine if you are breast feeding because Lexapro passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby.

Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up the missed one.

Possible Side Effects

Discontinue the usage of Lexapro and search for medical help if you experience:
-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. Consult your doctor but do not stop using Lexapro if you experience:
-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 in having an orgasm.
You may also experience other adverse effects that are not mentioned in this leaflet. Consult your doctor if you experience some other side effects.

Storage

Lexapro should be stored at a room temperature and should be kept away from moisture and heat.

Overdose

Immediately search for medical help in case of an overdose. An overdose of Lexapro may be signaled by nausea, vomiting, tremor, drowsiness, dizziness, sweating, and a fast heartbeat

More Information

You should not use Lexapro in case you are sensitive or allergic to any of its ingredients.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.