Antidepressant Lexapro

It is an antidepressant medicine. Also, known as escitalopram it belongs to the group of medicines known as serotonin reuptake inhibitors. It is not yet understood how it works, although, it has positive effects on the communication between the nerve cells and the central nervous system. It is mostly used to treat anxiety in adults and adolescents.

Uses of Lexapro

This medicine is mainly used to treat depression and anxiety. It restores the balance of serotonin, which in turn helps improve energy level and decrease nervousness in patients. It can also be used to treat other mental disorders.

Side Effects of Lexapro

This medicine can have many side effects. In case of any allergic reactions or skin rashes or hives after taking the medicine, please consult a doctor immediately. Also, there may be swelling of face, tongue, lips, throat and difficulty in breathing. Always consult a doctor immediately in case if you have any new symptoms. If the symptoms worsen, get emergency medical help.

Many patients have reported panic attacks, feeling impulsive, agitated, mood swings, anxiety, irritated, restless, suicidal tendencies, depressed or hyperactive.

Some of the symptoms such as

• Hallucinations
• Eye pain
• Blurred vision
• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fainting
• Slurred speech
• Rigid muscles
• Confusion
• Tunnel vision
• Seeing halos around lights
• Sweating
• Uneven heartbeat
• Tremors
• Diarrhea
• Low sodium
• Loss of coordination

There are few common side effects which are always highlighted by the doctor. They are

• Feeling tired
• Insomnia
• Mild nausea
• Heartburn
• Constipation
• Increased sweating
• Impotence
• Unable to have an orgasm
• Weight changes
• Vision issues
• Drowsiness
• Upset stomach

Contraindications of Lexapro

This medicine can have contradictions hence it is important that you consult your doctor before you start using it. The medicine is known to interact with pimozide and methylene blue injection. Also, this medicine should be avoided if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the last 14 days. It can lead to dangerous drug interactions with MAO inhibitors. Due to the suicidal side effects it is imperative that a doctor should monitor your progress regularly. Visit the doctor regularly and inform them about any mood swings. Always, buy the medicines from licensed pharmacy only. If you have an allergy to this medicine, then make sure that you inform the same to the doctor. Also, if you have any of the following conditions, then make sure your doctor is aware about the same. Conditions such as diabetes, liver or kidney disease, epilepsy, glaucoma, drug abuse history or heart disease. If you have a caregiver then they should be aware and alert of any mood changes which you might experience. This medicine is not safe for children younger than 12 years.

Pregnancy and Lexapro

Medicines which belong to the SSRI antidepressant group may cause complications during pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to have a child. It can also pass to the infant through breast milk. Check with your doctor before using this medicine, if you are breast feeding.

Mode of Ingestion

It is available as tablets to be consumed orally or as an oral solution.