What is Lexapro (Escitalopram Oxalate) used for?

Lexapro (Escitalopram Oxalate) is a type of antidepressant. This drug is used to treat the symptoms of major depressive disorder and anxiety. It belongs to a class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which work by helping to restore the equilibrium of certain natural chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin. This drug may contribute to an improvement in the mood and energy level of the patient.

How should I use Lexapro (Escitalopram Oxalate)?

Lexapro (Escitalopram Oxalate) tablets should be taken orally. Adult patients may be directed to take 10mg per day. Your physician may sometimes increase your dosage to 20mg after one week. It can take up to 4 weeks for the full benefits of this drug to be felt. Patients should always consult their physician before taking this medication so that the correct amount can be prescribed, and should never exceed the prescribed dosage. You should never suddenly stop taking this medication once you have started taking it, as doing so may cause withdrawal symptoms. Your physician may direct you to gradually decrease your dosage in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

What are the side effects of Lexapro (Escitalopram Oxalate)?

Some side effects which have been reported by patients taking Lexapro (Escitalopram Oxalate) include:

• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Tiredness or sleepiness
• Upset stomach
• Sweating

Patients should immediately consult their physician if any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if they notice changes in mood, suicidal thoughts, impotence, strange bruising or bleeding, changes in the amount of urination, bloody stools, rapid heartbeat, severe vomiting, persistent diarrhea, hallucinations or muscle twitches.

Please Note

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Lexapro (Escitalopram Oxalate). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, especially seizures, liver disease or kidney disease, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

This medication should not be used by patients who have taken an MAO inhibitor within the last 14 days.

Consult your physician immediately if you have any thoughts of suicide or self harm while taking this drug.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have any allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.