Lexapro
Escitalopram oxalate
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Lexapro
Lexapro is an antidepressant medication that is intended to treat such conditions as depression and anxiety. The drug restores the balance of some natural substances (like serotonin) in the human brain. This medication increases the energy level, improves the mood and the general feeling of well-being and eliminates the anxiety.
Theurapetic Uses of Lexapro
The medication is an antidepressant one. It means that this drug is applied to treat depressions and anxiety.
But being an antidepressant drug it obliges the patient family members or other person looking after the person to pay a close attention to the patient behavior as it may change within small period of time.
Direction of Use of Lexapro
Take the medication once a day no matter is it morning or evening. It is possible to take the medication with food as well as without it. Follow your doctor recommendations (like dosage and etc) when using the Lexapro. Do not stop taking the drug even in case your condition improved. If you still think you need stop using the drug consult it with your doctor at first. Take the medication on a regular basis to get the best benefit form it.
The use of such type medications may cause certain dependence. It in its turn may lead to various withdrawal reactions like nervousness, headache and etc. In this case doctor may reduce dosage to stop you taking the drug gradually. Contact your doctor in case you experience any withdrawal reactions.
Dose of Lexapro, if Missed
In case you have missed to take the drug then take it at the time you have remembered however skip the missed dosage if it already time for the next dosage and follow your common dosing schedule. Avoid taking two doses at once.
How to Store Lexapro
Lexapro should be stored at the temperature of 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a dark and dry place beyond of the reach of children and pets. It is also possible to keep the medication at the temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) for a short period of time. Avoid keeping the drug in the bathroom. Avoid improper discarding of the medication. Contact your pharmacist to know the proper ways of discarding the drug.
More Information About Lexapro
The medication should be used only by those patients to whom it is prescribed.
The treatment period should be accompanied with psychiatric/medical tests with an aim to control your condition and side effects. In case there is anything unclear for consult your doctor.
Lexapro may interact with other medications. Thus avoid starting or stopping taking any other drugs within treatment period without prior consulting your health care provider.
The medication may interact with MAO inhibitors, pimozide, tryotophan, weight loss drugs, aspirin, desipramine, metoprolol, ibuprofen, heparin or warfarin and etc. In case you already using them – contact your doctor.
In case you got overdosed with the medication contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Lexapro
Let your doctor know about your allergic reaction to the drugs and general medical history before starting the Lexapro treatment. Especially tell doctor about any mental disorders took place within your family members.
Using the medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Thus pay a great attention to operating any machinery within treatment period.
It is also to use the drug with caution in elder patients as they are more sensitive to its effects.
The use of the medication within pregnancy as well as breast feeding period should be first discussed with the doctor. Already born babies may get certain withdrawal symptoms (like seizures, difficulties in feeding, breathing, stiffness of the muscles and constant crying) in case the mothers used the medication within last 3 months of the pregnancy. Contact your doctor in case you notice any of such symptoms.
Possible Adverse Effects of Lexapro
Contact your doctor in case you have such side effects as:
- Nausea, dry mouth, loss of appetite, weakness, drowsiness trouble sleeping, dizziness, increased sweating, yawning.
Let your healthcare provider know immediately in case you experience such conditions as:
- Unusual or severe mental/mood changes (e.g., nervousness, unusual high energy/excitement, rare thoughts of suicide), shakiness (tremor), decreased interest in sex, changes in sexual ability.
- Stomach pain, fainting, bloody/black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, easy bruising/bleeding, muscle weakness/cramps, seizures, irregular/pounding heartbeat, change in the amount of urine.
- Prolonged or painful erection (in males).
- Any allergic reactions symptoms: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.