Lexapro is a drug that is used to treat depression and anxiety. Today we are going to give you information about the use, dosage, side effects of Lexapro through this article. That’s why you must read this article completely.
What is Lexapro?
Lexapro is a brand name for the prescription medication escitalopram, which belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and panic disorder.
Lexapro works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, appetite, and other bodily functions. It is typically taken orally, once a day, and can take several weeks to show its full effects. As with any medication, it is important to consult with a doctor or healthcare provider before taking Lexapro.
Lexapro Generic Name
The generic name for Lexapro is escitalopram.
Lexapro Uses
Here are some of the uses of Lexapro:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Lexapro is commonly used to treat depression, which is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed.
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Lexapro is also used to treat GAD, which is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about a wide range of events or activities.
- Panic Disorder: Lexapro can also be used to treat panic disorder, which is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by sudden and repeated episodes of intense fear.
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Lexapro is also used to treat SAD, which is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by intense fear of social situations and performance anxiety.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Lexapro can also be used to treat OCD, which is a mental health condition characterized by unwanted, repetitive, and intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) that cause anxiety and distress, along with repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) aimed at reducing the anxiety.
It is important to note that Lexapro should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional and as prescribed, as it may cause side effects and can interact with other medications.
Lexapro Pill
Lexapro is a prescription medication that comes in the form of oral tablets. The tablets are usually round and film-coated, and come in different strengths depending on the prescribed dose. The tablets are typically white in color, but may also be light yellow or light pink, depending on the manufacturer.
The tablet strengths available for Lexapro are typically 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg. The recommended starting dose for most adults is 10 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum of 20 mg per day based on the individual’s response to the medication and their overall health status.
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How does Lexapro work?
Escitalopram, the active ingredient of Lexapro, is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressant. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is increased in the brain as a result of this treatment.
Chemical messenger serotonin aids in controlling mood, hunger, sleep, and other body processes. Those with depression or anxiety disorders may have lower-than-normal serotonin levels. By preventing serotonin from being reabsorbed by brain nerve cells, Lexapro increases the amount of serotonin that is available to send messages between brain cells.
By raising serotonin levels, Lexapro may aid in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms include protracted melancholy, lack of interest in previously enjoyed hobbies, and excessive worrying. The full effects of Lexapro may not be felt for several weeks of consistent use, therefore the medication must be taken exactly as directed.
Lexapro Knowledge Table
Drug Name | Lexapro |
---|---|
Drug Class | Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) |
Indication | Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) |
Dosage Forms | Tablets, Oral Solution |
Dosage Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg |
Administration | Oral |
Mechanism of Action | Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the brain |
Half-life | 27-32 hours |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and severe liver impairment |
Adverse Reactions | Nausea, insomnia, somnolence, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, dry mouth, increased sweating, weight changes |
Drug Interactions | Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), warfarin, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiplatelet drugs, and other drugs that affect serotonin levels |
Pregnancy and Lactation | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding |
Monitoring Parameters | Signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, blood pressure, and heart rate |
Overdose Symptoms | Tremors, agitation, seizures, tachycardia, hypotension, coma, and death |
Storage | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light |
Manufacturer | Forest Laboratories, Inc. |
Lexapro Dosage
The recommended dosage of Lexapro (escitalopram) depends on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. The usual starting dose for adults is 10 mg once daily, which may be increased to a maximum dose of 20 mg per day.
Here are some general guidelines for Lexapro dosage:
- Major Depressive Disorder: The usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum dose of 20 mg per day after at least one week of treatment.
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder: The usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum dose of 20 mg per day after at least one week of treatment.
- Panic Disorder: The usual starting dose is 5 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum dose of 20 mg per day after at least one week of treatment.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: The usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum dose of 20 mg per day after at least one week of treatment.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: The usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum dose of 20 mg per day after at least two weeks of treatment.
It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor and not to adjust the dosage without consulting your doctor.
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Who should not take Lexapro?
There are some people who should not take Lexapro or who should use it with caution.
Here are some groups of people who should not take Lexapro:
- People who are allergic to escitalopram or any of the ingredients in Lexapro.
- People who are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), a type of antidepressant medication. Taking Lexapro with MAOIs can cause a serious and potentially life-threatening reaction called serotonin syndrome.
- People who are taking pimozide, a medication used to treat Tourette’s disorder. Taking Lexapro with pimozide can cause serious heart problems.
- People who have a history of manic episodes or bipolar disorder should use Lexapro with caution, as it may trigger manic or hypomanic episodes.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking Lexapro.
- Children and adolescents under the age of 18 should use Lexapro with caution, as there is an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in this age group.
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Lexapro to determine if it is a safe and appropriate treatment for you.
What should not be taken with Lexapro?
There are some drugs and substances that should not be taken with Lexapro because they can interact and cause potentially dangerous side effects. Here are a few examples:
- MAO inhibitors: Taking Lexapro with MAO inhibitors can cause a dangerous increase in serotonin levels in the brain, leading to a condition called serotonin syndrome. MAO inhibitors include drugs like phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), and isocarboxazid (Marplan).
- Blood thinners: Combining Lexapro with blood thinners such as warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Taking NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin with Lexapro can increase the risk of bleeding or stomach ulcers.
- Other antidepressants or drugs that affect serotonin levels: Combining Lexapro with other antidepressants or drugs that affect serotonin levels can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Examples include fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and venlafaxine (Effexor).
- Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking Lexapro can increase the risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
Lexapro Side Effect
Like all medications, Lexapro (escitalopram) may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Some of the common side effects of Lexapro include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Increased sweating
- Sexual dysfunction (such as decreased sex drive, difficulty achieving orgasm, or erectile dysfunction)
- Weight changes (such as weight gain or weight loss)
Most of these side effects are mild and may improve with continued use of the medication. However, if you experience any of the following more serious side effects, you should contact your Doctor immediately:
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Worsening depression or anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Agitation or restlessness
- Unusual changes in mood or behavior
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Seizures
- Uncontrollable shaking or tremors
- Severe allergic reaction (such as rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)
Let your doctor know straight away if you experience any side effects while taking Lexapro as they can help determine whether the drug is still suitable for you.
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Lexapro side effects in Women
The side effects of Lexapro (escitalopram) can occur in both men and women, but there may be some differences in the frequency or severity of certain side effects between the two sexes.
Here are some potential side effects of Lexapro that may be more common in women:
- Sexual dysfunction: This includes decreased sex drive, difficulty achieving orgasm, or vaginal dryness.
- Weight changes: Women may be more likely to experience weight gain as a side effect of Lexapro.
- Menstrual changes: Lexapro may cause changes in menstrual periods, such as irregular periods, heavier or lighter bleeding, or missed periods.
- Breast tenderness: Some women may experience breast tenderness or swelling while taking Lexapro.
It is important to note that not all women will experience these side effects, and some women may experience different side effects or none at all.
Lexapro Withdrawal Symptoms
As with other antidepressants, it is important to taper off the drug gradually under a doctor’s supervision to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
On stopping or reducing the dose of Lexapro after prolonged use the following withdrawal symptoms may occur.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Irritability or agitation
- Sleep disturbances (such as insomnia or vivid dreams)
- Electric shock sensations (also known as “brain zaps”)
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue and muscle aches
- Digestive issues, such as diarrhea or constipation
- Sweating or chills
These side effects might range in intensity and duration and can start a few days or a few weeks after the medicine is stopped or reduced. Any worries you may have about stopping taking Lexapro should be discussed with a doctor, as they may offer advice and assistance.
Another name for Lexapro
Lexapro is the brand name for the generic drug escitalopram. Escitalopram is also sold under other brand names such as Cipralex, Seroplex, and Escitalopram Actavis, among others.
Lexapro Comparison
Here are some comparisons to Lexapro –
Lexapro and Benadryl
Drug Name | Lexapro | Benadryl |
---|---|---|
Drug Class | Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) | Antihistamine |
Indication | Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Allergies, Insomnia |
Dosage Forms | Tablets, Oral Solution | Tablets, Capsules, Liquid |
Dosage Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 25mg, 50mg |
Administration | Oral | Oral |
Mechanism of Action | Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the brain | Blocks histamine receptors, reducing allergic reactions and promoting sleep |
Half-life | 27-32 hours | 2-9 hours |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and severe liver impairment | Hypersensitivity to diphenhydramine, narrow-angle glaucoma, and severe asthma |
Adverse Reactions | Nausea, insomnia, somnolence, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, dry mouth, increased sweating, weight changes | Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation |
Drug Interactions | Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), warfarin, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiplatelet drugs, and other drugs that affect serotonin levels | Alcohol, other CNS depressants, anticholinergic drugs, and MAOIs |
Pregnancy and Lactation | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding | Category B (No risk in animal studies, no controlled studies in humans), use caution in breastfeeding |
Monitoring Parameters | Signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, blood pressure, and heart rate | Drowsiness, dizziness, and cognitive impairment |
Overdose Symptoms | Tremors, agitation, seizures, tachycardia, hypotension, coma, and death | Drowsiness, confusion, coma, respiratory depression, and death |
Storage | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light | Store at room temperature, protect from light |
Manufacturer | Forest Laboratories, Inc. | Johnson & Johnson |
Lexapro and Tylenol
Drug Name | Lexapro | Tylenol |
---|---|---|
Drug Class | Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) | Analgesic, Antipyretic |
Indication | Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Pain, fever |
Dosage Forms | Tablets, Oral Solution | Tablets, Capsules, Liquid, Suppositories |
Dosage Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 325mg, 500mg, 650mg |
Administration | Oral | Oral, Rectal |
Mechanism of Action | Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the brain | Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, reducing pain and fever |
Half-life | 27-32 hours | 2-4 hours |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and severe liver impairment | Hypersensitivity to acetaminophen, severe liver impairment |
Adverse Reactions | Nausea, insomnia, somnolence, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, dry mouth, increased sweating, weight changes | Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, liver damage (with high doses or long-term use) |
Drug Interactions | Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), warfarin, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiplatelet drugs, and other drugs that affect serotonin levels | Alcohol, other drugs that affect liver function, and drugs that increase the risk of bleeding |
Pregnancy and Lactation | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding | Category B (No risk in animal studies, no controlled studies in humans), use caution in breastfeeding |
Monitoring Parameters | Signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, blood pressure, and heart rate | Liver function tests |
Overdose Symptoms | Tremors, agitation, seizures, tachycardia, hypotension, coma, and death | Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, liver damage, and death |
Storage | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture |
Manufacturer | Forest Laboratories, Inc. | Johnson & Johnson |
Lexapro and Buspirone
Drug Name | Lexapro | Buspirone |
---|---|---|
Drug Class | Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) | Serotonin 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist |
Indication | Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) |
Dosage Forms | Tablets, Oral Solution | Tablets |
Dosage Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg |
Administration | Oral | Oral |
Mechanism of Action | Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the brain | Partial agonist of the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, which modulates the activity of serotonin in the brain |
Half-life | 27-32 hours | 2-3 hours |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and severe liver impairment | Hypersensitivity to buspirone, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and severe liver impairment |
Adverse Reactions | Nausea, insomnia, somnolence, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, dry mouth, increased sweating, weight changes | Dizziness, headache, nervousness, lightheadedness, nausea, and excitement |
Drug Interactions | Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), warfarin, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiplatelet drugs, and other drugs that affect serotonin levels | Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), erythromycin, ketoconazole, and other drugs that affect liver enzymes |
Pregnancy and Lactation | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding | Category B (No risk in animal studies, no controlled studies in humans), use caution in breastfeeding |
Monitoring Parameters | Signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, blood pressure, and heart rate | Signs and symptoms of anxiety, blood pressure, and heart rate |
Overdose Symptoms | Tremors, agitation, seizures, tachycardia, hypotension, coma, and death | Drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness |
Storage | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture |
Manufacturer | Forest Laboratories, Inc. | Bristol-Myers Squibb |
Lexapro (escitalopram) and Buspirone are both used to treat anxiety disorders but belong to different drug classes.
Lexapro and Vyvanse
Drug Name | Lexapro | Vyvanse |
---|---|---|
Drug Class | Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) | Central Nervous System Stimulant |
Indication | Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Binge Eating Disorder |
Dosage Forms | Tablets, Oral Solution | Capsules |
Dosage Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg, 50mg, 60mg, 70mg, 80mg |
Administration | Oral | Oral |
Mechanism of Action | Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the brain | Increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain |
Half-life | 27-32 hours | 10-13 hours |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and severe liver impairment | Hypersensitivity to lisdexamfetamine, hyperthyroidism, and severe anxiety or agitation |
Adverse Reactions | Nausea, insomnia, somnolence, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, dry mouth, increased sweating, weight changes | Decreased appetite, insomnia, headache, irritability, anxiety, nausea, and vomiting |
Drug Interactions | Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), warfarin, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiplatelet drugs, and other drugs that affect serotonin levels | Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other drugs that affect dopamine and norepinephrine levels |
Pregnancy and Lactation | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding |
Monitoring Parameters | Signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, blood pressure, and heart rate | Signs and symptoms of ADHD, blood pressure, and heart rate |
Overdose Symptoms | Tremors, agitation, seizures, tachycardia, hypotension, coma, and death | Restlessness, tremors, rapid breathing, confusion, hallucinations, panic, aggressiveness, muscle pain or weakness, and dark urine |
Storage | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture |
Manufacturer | Forest Laboratories, Inc. | Shire US Inc. |
Lexapro (escitalopram) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) are used to treat different conditions, with Lexapro used for anxiety and depression, while Vyvanse is used for ADHD and binge eating disorder.
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Tramadol and Lexapro
Drug Name | Tramadol | Lexapro |
---|---|---|
Drug Class | Opioid Analgesic | Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) |
Indication | Pain relief | Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) |
Dosage Forms | Tablets, Capsules, Injectable Solution | Tablets, Oral Solution |
Dosage Strengths | 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 200mg | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg |
Administration | Oral, Injection | Oral |
Mechanism of Action | Binds to mu-opioid receptors, inhibiting the transmission of pain signals | Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the brain |
Half-life | 6 hours | 27-32 hours |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to tramadol, respiratory depression, and severe liver or kidney impairment | Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and severe liver impairment |
Adverse Reactions | Nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, sweating, dry mouth, seizures, and addiction | Nausea, insomnia, somnolence, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, dry mouth, increased sweating, weight changes |
Drug Interactions | MAO inhibitors, alcohol, CNS depressants, serotonergic drugs, and drugs that lower seizure threshold | Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), warfarin, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiplatelet drugs, and other drugs that affect serotonin levels |
Pregnancy and Lactation | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding |
Monitoring Parameters | Pain level, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and heart rate | Signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, blood pressure, and heart rate |
Overdose Symptoms | Shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, extreme drowsiness, cold and clammy skin, muscle weakness, and coma | Tremors, agitation, seizures, tachycardia, hypotension, coma, and death |
Storage | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light |
Manufacturer | Various | Forest Laboratories, Inc. |
Tramadol and Lexapro have different indications, with Tramadol used for pain relief and Lexapro used for depression and anxiety.
Lexapro and Seroquel
Drug Name | Lexapro | Seroquel |
---|---|---|
Drug Class | Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) | Atypical Antipsychotic |
Indication | Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Insomnia |
Dosage Forms | Tablets, Oral Solution | Tablets, Extended-Release Tablets, Oral Solution |
Dosage Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg, 300mg, 400mg |
Administration | Oral | Oral |
Mechanism of Action | Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the brain | Antagonizes dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain |
Half-life | 27-32 hours | 6-7 hours (immediate-release), 12 hours (extended-release) |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and severe liver impairment | Hypersensitivity to quetiapine |
Adverse Reactions | Nausea, insomnia, somnolence, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, dry mouth, increased sweating, weight changes | Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain, metabolic changes, extrapyramidal symptoms |
Drug Interactions | MAO inhibitors, warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs, antiplatelet drugs, and other drugs that affect serotonin levels | Alcohol, CNS depressants, antihypertensive drugs, antihistamines, and other drugs that cause sedation |
Pregnancy and Lactation | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding |
Monitoring Parameters | Signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, blood pressure, and heart rate | Signs and symptoms of extrapyramidal symptoms, weight gain, blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides |
Overdose Symptoms | Tremors, agitation, seizures, tachycardia, hypotension, coma, and death | Drowsiness, tachycardia, hypotension, QT prolongation, and arrhythmias |
Storage | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light |
Manufacturer | Forest Laboratories, Inc. | AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP |
Lexapro and Seroquel are different classes of drugs used to treat different conditions.
Lexapro v Prozac
Drug Name | Lexapro | Prozac |
---|---|---|
Drug Class | Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) | Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) |
Indication | Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Bulimia, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder |
Dosage Forms | Tablets, Oral Solution | Capsules, Tablets, Oral Solution, Delayed-Release Capsules |
Dosage Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, 90mg |
Administration | Oral | Oral |
Mechanism of Action | Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the brain | Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the brain |
Half-life | 27-32 hours | 4-6 days |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and severe liver impairment | Hypersensitivity to fluoxetine, concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, and concurrent use of thioridazine or pimozide |
Adverse Reactions | Nausea, insomnia, somnolence, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, dry mouth, increased sweating, weight changes | Nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, somnolence, headache, decreased libido, sexual dysfunction, dry mouth, increased sweating, weight changes |
Drug Interactions | MAO inhibitors, warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs, antiplatelet drugs, and other drugs that affect serotonin levels | MAO inhibitors, NSAIDs, antiplatelet drugs, aspirin, anticoagulants, and other drugs that affect serotonin levels |
Pregnancy and Lactation | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding | Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out), use caution in breastfeeding |
Monitoring Parameters | Signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, blood pressure, and heart rate | Signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, liver function tests, and blood glucose |
Overdose Symptoms | Tremors, agitation, seizures, tachycardia, hypotension, coma, and death | Nausea, vomiting, seizures, arrhythmias, hypotension, and coma |
Storage | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light | Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light |
Manufacturer | Forest Laboratories, Inc. | Eli Lilly and Company |
Lexapro and Prozac are both SSRIs used to treat depression and other related conditions.
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Conclusion
So friends we hope that till now you have got all the necessary information about Lexapro. We hope that this article has increased your knowledge about medicines. If you want to get information about any other medicine other than Lexapro, you can get it by visiting the Home Page of our website.
FAQ: Related to Lexapro
1. What is the lowest dose of Lexapro?
The lowest dose of Lexapro is 5mg, which is typically the starting dose for adults and can be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability.
2. Is Lexapro similar to Xanax?
No, Lexapro and Xanax are not similar drugs. Lexapro is an SSRI used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, while Xanax is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorders.
3. What does escitalopram do?
Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant medication that works by increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain. It is used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
4. Does Lexapro help you lose weight?
In some cases, Lexapro may cause weight changes, such as weight gain or weight loss. However, weight loss is not a commonly reported side effect of the medication.
5. Can I stay on Lexapro forever?
If you are thinking about long-term use of Lexapro, it is better that you must consult a doctor regarding this. They can evaluate your individual needs and determine whether it is safe to continue taking the medication indefinitely.
6. Is it better to take Lexapro in the morning or at night?
The appropriate time to take Lexapro may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is best to consult a doctor to determine the best time for you to take Lexapro.
7. How will Lexapro make you feel?
Lexapro may help improve mood, reduce anxiety, and increase energy levels. However, individual experiences may vary and side effects are possible.
Note – Please note that all the information given in this article is given for the purpose of education. Before using this medicine in any way, you must consult a qualified doctor.