Medication Categories
Lexapro
Anxiety and depression are two of the most promiment conditions of modern times. It is therefore not surprising that the research on this topic is continuously ongoing. Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) is one of the new generation antidepressants that was developed as a result of this research and it has proven to be one of the most potent yet.
Benefits
Helps combat depression by restoring the chemical balance in the brain
Effective treatment against panic attacks and OCD
Only the second medication approved for treatment of depression in adolescents
Generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects
Only a relatively small dosage is needed for fast-acting results
How to Use
Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) should be taken orally, usually once a day in the morning or evening. Follow the instructions of your doctor exactly, even if they differ from the usually prescribed dosage.
To decrease the risk of side effects, you may need to start with the lowest recommended dosage, then gradually increase your dose under doctor’s supervision. Do not take more than the prescribed dosage of this medication, it will not cause your condition to improve faster, but could lead to negative side effects.
To enjoy the maximum benefits of Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram), make sure you take this medication regularly and at approximately the same time every day.
Do not stop taking Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) suddenly or without consulting a doctor. If you stop taking this medication suddenly, you may suffer from withdrawal symptoms.
Overdose
If you suspect you have taken too much Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram), contact your local poison control center or the emergency medical services immediately.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram), take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dosage, skip the missed dose and then continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on this medication to make up for a missed dose.
Notes
While taking Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram), you may be required to perform medical or laboratory tests to chart your progress and check for side effects. Make sure you do not miss any of these appointments.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C ) and away from light and moisture. KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
The following common side effects of Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) may occur:
Nausea
Dry mouth
Trouble sleeping
Constipation
Tiredness
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Increased sweating
The above side effects are usually mild and should only last temporarily. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if any of these side effects persist or worsen.
Inform your doctor straightaway if you suffer any of these unlikely but serious side effects:
Unusual or severe mental or mood changes (e.g. confusion, difficulty concentrating, nervousness, unusual high energy or excitement, rare thoughts of suicide)
Decreased interest in sex
Changes in sexual ability
Also tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of these rare but serious side effects:
Easy bruising or bleeding
Muscle weakness or cramps
Changes in the amount of urine
Seek urgent medical attention if you have any of the following rare but very serious side effects:
Bloody, black or tarry stools
Fainting
Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Seizures
In rare cases, Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) may cause a severe condition called serotonin syndrome. You are more likely to develop this condition is you take this medication in conjunction with any of the medications mentioned in the ‘Drug Interactions’ section. Seek urgent medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms:
Hallucinations
Unusual restlessness
Loss of coordination
Fast heartbeat
Severe dizziness
Unexplained fever
Severe nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Twitching muscles
Rarely, this medication could cause a painful or prolonged erection (which lasts more than 4 hours). If this happens, stop taking the medication immediately and seek emergency medical attention to prevent long-term damage.
In rare cases, you may develop a severe allergic reaction to Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram). Seek urgent medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:
Rash
Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
Severe dizziness
Trouble breathing
A small number of people under the age of 25 who take Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram), may experience unusual side effects, including:
Worsening depression
Other mental or mood changes
Suicidal thoughts or attempts
To avoid these side effects from occurring, make sure you discuss all relevant risks and benefits with your doctor before you start taking this medication.
People of all ages taking this medication should notify their doctor immediately if they experience any of the following symptoms, especially when you start taking the medication or after a dosage change:
Worsening of the depression or other psychiatric condition
Unusual behavior changes (e.g. possible suicidal thoughts or attempts)
Other mental or mood changes (e.g. new or worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile or angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech)
This is only a partial list and other negative side effects may occur. Inform your doctor straightaway if you experience any side effects other than the ones mentioned here, especially if they are bothersome.
Precautions
Before taking Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram), inform your doctor of any relevant medical history, including:
Any allergies
Personal or family history of psychiatric disorders (e.g. bipolar/manic-depressive disorder)
Personal or family history of suicide attempts
Bleeding problems
Liver or kidney diseases
Seizures
Stomach bleeding (e.g. ulcers)
Dehydration
Low sodium levels (hyponatremia)
If you currently suffer or ever have suffered from any of the above conditions, you may not be able to take Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) or you may need a dosage adjustment.
Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) may cause dizziness or drowsiness. It is therefore advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery while taking this medication, at least until you are sure you can perform these activities safely.
The elderly could have a heightened sensitivity to some of the side effects of this medication, such as a decreased level of salt in the blood. The risk is even greater if these patients are also taking diuretics or water pills.
Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) is classified is Pregnancy Category C by the FDA, which means it could potentially harm an unborn baby. Discuss all relevant risks and benefits with your doctor if you are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the near future. Make sure you always involve your doctor first before you stop taking this medication. Depression is a serious condition and you should therefore not stop taking this medication suddenly.
Some babies born to mothers who have been using Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) during the last 3 months of pregnancy, develop withdrawal symptoms after birth. These may include:
Difficulties feeding or breathing
Seizures
Muscle stiffness
Constant crying
Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram) passes into breast milk but it is not clear yet if this could harm an unborn baby. Discuss all relevant risks and benefits with your doctor if you are currently breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Before taking Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram), inform your doctor of all other medication you are currently taking, such as:
MAO inhibitors (e.g. isocarboxazid, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine – during treatment and for 2 weeks before and after)
Pimozide
Medicines that can cause bleeding or bruising (e.g. antiplatelet medication such as clopidogrel, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, blood thinners such as warfarin)
Antihistamines (e.g. cetirizine, diphenhydramine)
Medication for sleep or anxiety (e.g. alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem)
Muscle relaxants
Narcotic pain relievers (e.g. codeine)
Any medication containing ingredients that could cause bleeding or drowsiness
Dextromethorphan
Lithium
St. John's wort
Sibutramine
Street drugs such as MDMA (ecstasy)
Tramadol
Tryptophan
Certain antidepressants including SSRIs (e.g. fluoxetine, paroxetine) and SNRIs (e.g. duloxetine, venlafaxine)
Triptans used to treat migraine headaches (e.g. eletriptan, sumatriptan)
This is only a partial list and other medications may negatively interact with Generic Lexapro (Escitalopram). Inform your doctor of all other prescription and non-prescription medication you are currently using, including vitamins, minerals, herbal pills, dietary supplements and medicines prescribed by other doctors. Do not start or stop using any medication without consulting your doctor first.