Lexapro Tablets (Escitalopram)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Lexapro Tablets Used For?
Lexapro is a medication that helps manage depression and anxiety by correcting chemical imbalances in the brain.
Primary Uses
Lexapro is primarily used to treat depression, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
How It Works
Lexapro works by affecting brain chemicals called amines, which play a role in regulating mood.
Good to know: Lexapro is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Lexapro Tablets
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Lexapro for the best results.
Dosage Instructions
The standard starting dose is 10 mg per day, which may be increased to 20 mg based on your doctor's advice. 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. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
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
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Increased sweating
- Sexual disturbances
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Severe allergic reactions
- High fever
- Agitation
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Irregular heartbeat
Impulse Control Issues
Some patients may experience impulse control problems while taking Lexapro.
Important Warnings
Be aware of important safety information before starting Lexapro.
Who Should Not Take Lexapro Tablets
Do not take 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 or kidney issues, bipolar disorder, or seizures.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as Lexapro can affect your baby.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients may require special consideration when taking Lexapro.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interact with Lexapro, affecting its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit while taking Lexapro, as it may affect how the medication works.
- Bupropion (for nicotine dependence)
- Cimetidine, omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole (for reflux and ulcers)
- NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin)
- Warfarin (for blood clots)
- Fluconazole (anti-fungal)
- Mefloquine (anti-malaria)
- Sumatriptan (for migraines)
- Tramadol (for pain)
- Lithium (for mood swings)
- St John's Wort (herbal remedy)
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Lexapro.
Alcohol
It's advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Lexapro, as it can worsen depression.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Lexapro may cause dizziness and blurred vision, so be careful when driving or using machinery.
Storage
Store Lexapro in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from moisture and sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical help. Symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, agitation, and in severe cases, convulsions.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take several weeks before you notice improvements in your symptoms.
You can take Lexapro with or without food.
No, Lexapro is not considered addictive.
Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing.
It is not advisable to drink alcohol while on Lexapro, as it can worsen your condition.
Weight changes can occur, but they vary from person to person.
Yes, but they may require a lower dose and closer monitoring.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless 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.