What is Lexapro?

Lexapro 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 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.

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. Stopping suddenly can worsen your condition or cause withdrawal symptoms.

Lexapro Side Effects

Common side effects include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Tunnel vision
  • Eye pain or swelling
  • Seeing halos around lights
  • Racing thoughts
  • Unusual risk-taking behavior
  • Headache
  • Confusion
  • Slurred speech
  • Severe weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of coordination
  • Feeling unsteady
  • Stiff (rigid) muscles
  • High fever
  • Sweating
  • Confusion
  • Fast or uneven heartbeat
  • Tremors
  • Lightheadedness
  • Drowsiness
  • Weakness
  • Sweating
  • Feeling shaky or anxious
  • Sleep problems (insomnia)
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Yawning
  • Weight changes
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Impotence

Precautions

Before taking Lexapro, inform your doctor if you have any allergies or medical history of:

  • Bipolar disorder
  • Suicide attempts
  • Liver disease
  • Seizures
  • Bleeding problems
  • Low blood sodium (hyponatremia)
  • Glaucoma

Additional Considerations:

  • The liquid form may contain sugar/aspartame; consult your doctor if you have diabetes or PKU.
  • Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects like QT prolongation, loss of coordination, or bleeding.
  • Children may experience loss of appetite and weight loss.
  • Use during pregnancy should be discussed with your doctor due to potential risks to the unborn child.

Lexapro vs. Zoloft

Basis Lexapro Zoloft
Generic Name Escitalopram Sertraline
Forms Oral tablet, solution Oral tablet, solution
Strengths Tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg<br>Solution: 1 mg/mL Tablet: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg<br>Solution: 20 mg/mL
Age Range 12 years and older 18 years and older
Dosage Determined by doctor Determined by doctor
Treatment Duration Long-term Long-term
Storage Room temperature, away from heat and moisture Room temperature, away from heat and moisture
Withdrawal Risk Yes Yes
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