Psychiatrists prescribe Lexapro, the brand name for escitalopram, for depression and for generalized anxiety disorder. It was introduced to the United States in 2002. A generic form of escitalopram is expected in 2012, but until then only brand name Lexapro is available. Many side effects can occur when taking Lexapro. Understanding them can help patients determine if Lexapro is the best drug for them.
Function
Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI. MayoClinic.com says that it is not clear how these medications work, though research suggests that imbalances in the neurotransmitter serotonin cause some types of depression and anxiety. SSRIs such as Lexapro block the reabsorption of serotonin by particular nerve cells, making more serotonin available in the brain. These drugs may also keep glutamate, a naturally occurring chemical linked to anxiety and depression, in check.
Serious Adverse Effects
Like all antidepressants, Lexapro carries a black box warning regarding increased risk of suicidality, especially in younger patients. Other serious possible side effects are rare, and include painful, prolonged erection requiring medical attention to avoid permanent sexual problems. Drugs.com notes that Lexapro can cause a potentially fatal adverse effect called serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, confusion, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, tremor and vomiting. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is another possibly fatal risk of taking Lexapro. Its symptoms may include fever, confusion, stiffness, abnormal thinking and sweating.
Serious Side Effects
Severe side effects are rare and require immediate medical attention. They include allergic reaction, cardiac disorders, psychosis, endocrine disorders, lymphatic and blood disorders, serious gastrointestinal disorders, nervous system disorders, respiratory disorder and vascular disorder. Certain drugs in combination with Lexapro may cause serious problems. Patients should advise their psychiatrist of any other medications and herbal supplements that they take.
Mild Side Effects
In a large clinical trial reported by RxList, many mild to moderate side effects appeared. Patients taking Lexapro to treat major depression most commonly experienced insomnia, delayed orgasm, gastrointestinal issues, sweating, fatigue, and drowsiness. Those taking Lexapro for generalized anxiety disorder experienced similar rates and types of side effects, but experienced headache and decreased libido at a higher reported rate, and did not report significant instances of sweating. Rxlist also notes that antidepressant drug manufacturers are likely to understate the likelihood of sexual side effects due to under-reporting by patients.
Warnings
Some patients should not take Lexapro, or should do so only under careful medical monitoring. This includes women who are or may become pregnant or are breastfeeding. People who have a history of seizures or serious kidney, stomach or metabolism problems should let their psychiatrist know. Patients who drink alcohol regularly, have chronic dehydration or low blood sodium levels may need special monitoring or dosage considerations. People with bipolar disorder or other mental problems, or a history of suicidality should only take Lexapro after careful consideration of these factors with their psychiatrists.
Member Comments