Lexapro® (Escitalopram oxalate) Consumer Medicine Information (Escitalopram Oxalate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Lexapro® (Escitalopram oxalate) Consumer Medicine Information Used For?
Lexapro is an antidepressant medication that helps manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Primary Uses
Lexapro is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.
How It Works
Lexapro works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Good to know: Lexapro is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Lexapro® (Escitalopram oxalate) Consumer Medicine Information
Take Lexapro exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily.
Dosage Instructions
Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your condition and response to treatment.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never take more than the prescribed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- decreased appetite
- dry mouth
- diarrhoea
- nausea
- sleeplessness
- fatigue
- increased sweating
- sexual disturbances
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- agitation
- confusion
- seizures
- serotonin syndrome
- serious allergic reactions
Impulse Control Issues
Some patients may experience issues with impulse control, including gambling or spending.
Important Warnings
Be aware of certain conditions and medications that may interact with Lexapro.
Who Should Not Take Lexapro® (Escitalopram oxalate) Consumer Medicine Information
Do not take Lexapro if you are currently using pimozide or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or if you have taken an MAOI in the last 14 days.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have a tendency to bleed easily, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, bipolar disorder, a history of seizures, or if you are receiving electroconvulsive therapy.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Caution is advised when prescribing Lexapro to elderly patients with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Lexapro, affecting its efficacy or increasing side effects.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Lexapro works.
- bupropion
- cimetidine
- omeprazole
- esomeprazole
- lansoprazole
- aspirin
- ticlopidine
- warfarin
- mefloquine
- sumatriptan
- tramadol
- lithium
- antipsychotics
- tricyclic antidepressants
- St John's Wort
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol or driving while taking Lexapro.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects of Lexapro.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how Lexapro affects you.
Temperature Regulation
Be aware that Lexapro may affect your body's ability to regulate temperature.
Storage
Store Lexapro at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take several weeks to feel the full effects of Lexapro.
You can take Lexapro with or without food.
No, Lexapro is not considered addictive.
Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms; consult your doctor before stopping.
It is advised to avoid alcohol while taking Lexapro.
Weight gain can occur, but it varies by individual.
Elderly patients should use Lexapro with caution, especially those with dementia.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.