Lexapro Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Lexapro, the brand name for escitalopram oxalate, is generally prescribed to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), bipolar disorder, and other mental or mood disorders.[1] Lexapro is a selective serotonin uptake inhibitor (SSRI) that helps to restore the balance of serotonin and other natural chemicals in the brain.
Potential Lexapro side effects include headache, digestive difficulties, dry mouth, dizziness, difficulty sleeping and low energy levels. More serious adverse reactions are also possible, such as hallucinations or over-excitability. While Lexapro may improve general feelings of well being and decrease nervousness, individuals under the age of 25 may experience increased levels of depression, suicidal thoughts, or other symptoms.[1]
 Wikimedia: Mysid | |
| Brand name for | Escitalopram oxalate[1] |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Forest Laboratories, Inc[2] |
| Uses | Treatment of MDD, GAD and bipolar disorder[1] |
| Common side effects | Headache, nausea, sexual difficulty, fatigue, signs of flu, insomnia, dry mouth[1] |
| Who should not take Lexapro | Individuals taking MAOI inhibitors, Celexa, or Orap antipsychotic medication, and those who are allergic to escitalopram.[3] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common Lexapro Side Effects
Common Lexapro side effects include headache, ejaculation difficulties, decreased sex drive, orgasm problems, fatigue, insomnia, dry mouth, increased sweating, and gastro-intestinal symptoms such as, diarrhea, nausea, gas, stomach pain, and constipation. Some side effects may lessen as the body adjusts to the medication, while others are likely to continue as long as the medication is being taken.[1]
Serious, but more rare, Lexapro side effects include thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts, anxiety, panic attacks, aggressive behavior, agitation, restlessness, extreme mood swings from elation to sadness, or other unusual behavior changes. Lexapro may also rarely cause serotonin syndrome, a condition associated with some antidepressants. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include changes in blood pressure, confusion, rapid heart rate, gastro-intestinal issues, fever, sweating, shivering, and agitation. More serious symptoms of serotonin syndrome include seizures and coma.[3]
Lexapro Allergic Reactions
Individuals who have had an allergic reaction to Celexa (citalopram) may also experience an allergic reaction to Lexapro. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include itching, a rash, hives, pain in the joints, high temperature, swelling, wheezing, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. Reactions may occur to the active ingredient as well as other ingredients in the Lexapro formula.[3]
Lexapro Precautions and Warnings
- Lexapro can cause reactions when taken with other medications, vitamins, or supplements. These include anxiety medications, anti-psychotics, other SSRIs, and St. John's Wort.[3]
- Taking Lexapro with blood thinners like warfarin or NSAIDS like ibuprofen can increase risk of bleeding or bruising easily.[3]
- Those with existing health conditions like liver or kidney disease, heart attack, stroke, hypertension (high blood pressure), seizures, and bipolar disorder are advised to divulge this information to their health care providers.[3]
- Lexapro is only to be used exactly as prescribed, and is not for use without a doctor's recommendation.[3]
- It is possible to overdose on Lexapro. Patients who take too much Lexapro are advised to consult a physician or to contact their local poison control center.[3]
- The FDA released a public health warning for Lexapro in March of 2004, warning that Lexapro usage may lead to more severe depression and suicide.[4] The FDA alert recommends that doctors warn patients, as well as their families and caregivers, to be conscious of behavior changes, worsening depression, or suicidal tendencies when using Lexapro. Behavior needs to be monitored, particularly when beginning Lexapro treatment or when the dosage has been changed.[3]
- Studies have also found that individuals under 25 in particular may experience a higher risk of worsening depression, additional mental or mood symptoms, and suicidal thoughts or attempts when taking Lexapro.[5]
Lexapro Coupons
Also See: Lexapro, Lexapro Coupons, Lexapro Free Samples, Lexapro Patient Assistance Programs, Abilify Side Effects, Zoloft Side Effects, Paxil Side Effects, Cymbalta Side Effects, Trazodone Side Effects, Prozac Side Effects
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0000214/
- ↑ http://www.lexapro.com/
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 http://www.frx.com/pi/lexapro_pi.pdf#MedicationGuide
- ↑ http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/DrugSafetyInformationforHeathcareProfessionals/PublicHealthAdvisories/ucm161696.htm
- ↑ http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/child-and-adolescent-mental-health/antidepressant-medications-for-children-and-adolescents-information-for-parents-and-caregivers.shtml
