Generic Name: Escitalopram (ess-sye-TAL-oh-pram)
Lexapro (Escitalopram) is used to treat depression as well as generalized anxiety disorder. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). It may decrease nervousness, improve energy level and improve feelings of well-being.
This medicine works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin (a neurotransmitter) back into the nerve cell. This increases the amount of serotonin that is available.
This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor or healthcare provider.
Follow your doctor’s directions. This medicine is taken orally and may be taken with food or on an empty stomach.
bloody/black/tarry stools
swelling in ankles, hands or face
Escitalopram is not approved for use in all children. Talk with your doctor to find out if this medication is right for your child.
DO NOT take this medication if you are taking pimozide.
Tell your doctor if you have irregular heartbeat (long QT syndrome) or low blood magnesium or potassium levels.
This medicine can cause dizziness or drowsiness..
Tell your doctor if you are taking anticoagulants or diuretics.
Older adults may be experience certain side effects of this drug, including bleeding, QT prolongation, or loss of coordination, which may increase the risk of falling. If they are taking “water pills” (diuretics), they may be prone to losing too much salt (hyponatremia).
This medicine may take several weeks to reach its full effect. Do not stop taking this medicine without talking to your doctor.
This medication should not be taken with MAO inhibitors. Your doctor or pharmacist can give you more information on MAO inhibitors. Wait 5 weeks after stopping escitalopram before starting a non-selective MAO inhibitor. Wait 2 weeks after stopping an MAO inhibitor before starting escitalopram.
Do not take escitalopram with the herb, St. John’s Wort.
If you are taking medications for migraines such as Imitrex, talk to your doctor before starting escitalopram.
Lexapro is available in tablet form, in 5-, 10-, or 20-mgs. It is also available in liquid form. Most people start by taking 10mg/day for generalized anxiety disorder and depression.
Lexapro is typically taken 1x/day. It may be taken in the morning or at night, with our without food.
If you miss a dose, take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses or take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.
If you are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine during your pregnancy. Escitalopram is excreted in the breast milk and should be avoided if you are nursing.