Description:
Lexapro is a medication used to treat depression. This medication belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain, a naturally occurring chemical that aids in the preservation of mental balance.
Lexapro Withdrawal
The immediate antidepressant withdrawal period from escitalopram can include both new symptoms and a worsening of symptoms present previous to taking the drug. Among the most prevalent symptoms observed are:
- Agitation
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Nausea
Lexapro and Alcohol
The combination of this medication and alcohol may result in more negative effects.
When combined, the two can make you feel:
- Drowsy
- Less vigilant
- Body with less coordination
In severe circumstances, consuming alcohol while taking an SSRI such as this medication might result in negative effects such as getting violent. It also usually makes it more difficult to perform tasks that require you to remain sharp and awake.
Lexapro Dosage:
Adult Standard Dose for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Depression:
- Initial dose: 10 mg orally once a day; increase to 20 mg once a day, if necessary, after at least one week of treatment.
- 10 to 20 mg orally once a day as a maintenance dose
- The maximum daily dose is 20 mg taken orally once a day.
- Typical Pediatric Depression Dose:
12 years and up:
- Initial dose: 10 mg orally once daily; increase to 20 mg once daily, if necessary, after at least 3 weeks of treatment.
- Maintenance dose: 10 to 20 mg once a day orally
- The maximum daily dose is 20 mg taken orally once a day.
Direction:
- This medication should be taken exactly as your doctor has instructed. Read all drug instruction sheets and follow all guidelines on the prescription labels. Your doctor may modify your dose from time to time.
- Take the medication on a daily basis, with or without meals.
- Carefully measure liquid medication. Use the included dosage syringe or a pharmaceutical dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Lexapro Side Effects:
Possible Adverse Effects of this medication:
- Drowsiness and exhaustion
- Insomnia
- Issues with vision
- Uncomfortable stomach
- Gain or loss of weight
- Sweating
Caution:
- If you are also on pimozide or citalopram, you should not take this medication.
- When they first start taking an antidepressant, some young people have suicidal thoughts.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-What is Lexapro used for?
This medication is a prescription medicine used to treat mental disorders such as worsening depression and GAD, caused by chemical imbalances in the brain.
–Is it possible to weight gain while on Lexapro?
Yes, this is a common side effect of Latuda – gain weight, for various reasons. This medication increases serotonin, which aids in weight control.
–What are Lexapro side effects the first week after taking the medication? Within the first week or two of using Lexapro, you may notice side symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea, or headaches.
