It is common for everyone to have feelings of anxiety or sadness at times, but when these feelings are persistent and negatively affect daily life, it could be a sign of a more serious disorder. Major depressive disorders (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) are two commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorders. Medications are often used to correct chemical imbalances in the brain associated with these types of disorders. Lexapro is one treatment option for both MDD and GAD.
SSRIs
Lexapro (escitalopram) belongs to a class of antidepressant drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This class of drug acts to increase the levels of serotonin in the brain by preventing certain processes in the brain from recycling or removing serotonin before the body has had a chance to use it. Serotonin is known to perform a wide variety of functions and a lack of serotonin has been shown to be linked to depression and anxiety, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Indications
Lexapro is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It acts to restore the balance of certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters to relieve the symptoms associated with the disorders. The drug is prescribed for both acute and maintenance treatment of MDD in adults and adolescents ages 12 to 17. In GAD, Lexapro is prescribed only for acute cases in adults.
Side Effects
Side effects are common with any medication, but in general the benefits of the drug outweigh the risks. In adults and adolescents taking Lexapro, the most common side effects are nausea, insomnia, sexual dysfunctions, fatigue and lethargy. There are also reports of back pain, urinary tract infections, vomiting and nasal congestion in adolescents taking Lexapro, according to the FDA.
Dosage and Administration
Lexapro is available as either a tablet or liquid to be administered orally. Both routes of delivery should be administered with a full glass of water and should not be taken with food, according to the FDA. The drug is most often prescribed to be taken once per day, either in the morning or evening, and at the same time each day. The drug can take up to four weeks to take effect. It is important to follow the prescribing information given by a doctor or pharmacist.
Warning
The FDA warns that suicidal thoughts are possible when first taking Lexapro, especially in individuals under the age of 24. Along with thoughts of death or suicide, it is important for individuals to first speak with a doctor before taking Lexapro if they have liver or kidney disease, seizure disorders, bipolar disorder, or a history of drug abuse or suicidal thoughts. The FDA also warns that individuals taking MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) should not take Lexapro at the same time and must wait at least 14 days after stopping one before taking the other.
