Lexapro Oral Solution (Escitalopram)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Lexapro Oral Solution Used For?
Lexapro Oral Solution contains escitalopram and is primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
Primary Uses
It is used to alleviate symptoms of depression, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
How It Works
Lexapro works by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood and emotional state.
Good to know: Lexapro is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Lexapro Oral Solution
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Lexapro Oral Solution for optimal results.
Dosage Instructions
The standard starting dose is 10 mg per day, which may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg per day. Elderly patients should not exceed 10 mg daily.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose and remember within 12 hours, take it as soon as possible. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never double dose to make up for a missed 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
- diarrhea
- nausea
- sleeplessness
- fatigue
- sleepiness
- increased sweating
- sexual disturbances
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- serious allergic reactions
- high fever
- agitation
- confusion
- trembling
- mania
- hallucinations
- seizures
- movement disorders
- irregular heartbeat
Impulse Control Issues
Some patients may experience issues related to impulse control, including increased risk of self-harm.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before using Lexapro.
Who Should Not Take Lexapro Oral Solution
Do not use Lexapro if you are allergic to escitalopram or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders, diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, bipolar disorder, or seizures.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as Lexapro can affect newborns and may pass into breast milk.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients should use Lexapro with caution, especially those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Lexapro may interact with various medications.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Lexapro works.
- bupropion
- cimetidine
- omeprazole
- esomeprazole
- lansoprazole
- aspirin
- ticlopidine
- warfarin
- fluconazole
- mefloquine
- sumatriptan
- tramadol
- flecainide
- propafenone
- metoprolol
- lithium
- risperidone
- thioridazine
- haloperidol
- imipramine
- desipramine
- St John’s Wort
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol and operating vehicles while on Lexapro.
Alcohol
It is advised to avoid alcohol while taking Lexapro.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Lexapro may cause dizziness and blurred vision; avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
Storage
Store Lexapro Oral Solution in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and sunlight. Keep it in its original packaging and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include dizziness, low blood pressure, nausea, and agitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take several weeks before you notice an improvement in your symptoms.
You can take Lexapro with or without food.
No, Lexapro is not considered addictive.
Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms; consult your doctor for a gradual reduction.
It is not advisable to drink alcohol while on Lexapro.
Weight gain is not commonly reported, but individual responses may vary.
Yes, but they should use a reduced dose and be monitored closely.
Take it as soon as you remember if it's within 12 hours; otherwise, skip it and continue with your schedule.
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.