Lexapro
Uses
Lexapro is an
anti-depressant from the family of drugs known as selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. Lexapro helps to
restore the brain's chemical balance by increasing the supply
of a substance in the brain called serotonin. Lexapro appears
to relieve depression by increasing serotonin without
affecting many of the other chemicals in the brain that
influence mood.
How To Use
Simple 10 mg/day
starting dose for all patients. LEXAPRO should be taken once
every day. It may be taken with or without food, in the
morning or evening. Also remember to fill prescriptions ahead
of time to avoid missing a dose. To get the best results, it
is important to follow all of your healthcare provider's
instructions about how and when you should take LEXAPRO.
Side Effects
LEXAPRO is well
tolerated by most people. The most commonly reported side
effects of LEXAPRO are nausea, insomnia, problems with
ejaculation, drowsiness, increased sweating, and fatigue. Most
of the side effects experienced by patients taking LEXAPRO are
mild and go away with continued treatment, and usually do not
cause patients to stop taking LEXAPRO.
Precautions
LEXAPRO can be
taken with most other medications except another family of
antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
LEXAPRO and MAOIs should not be taken together or within 14
days of each other. Before you begin taking LEXAPRO, make sure
to tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any other
medications, including over-the-counter medications, herbal
remedies, diet supplements, etc.
Overdose
If overdose is
suspected, contact your local poison control center or
emergency room immediately.
Missed Dose
If you do miss a
dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However,
if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double
doses.
Storage
Keep out of the
reach of children. Store away from heat and direct light. Do
not store the capsule or tablet form of this medicine in the
bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat
or moisture may cause the medicine to break down. Do not keep
outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that
any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
Lexapro