Lexapro is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder in adults and teens aged 12 to 17, according to the manufacturer. The drug has also been approved for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. Lexapro, generic name escitalopram oxalate, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI. SSRIs impact depression by increasing the amount of serotonin that circulates in the brain, thus improving mood. As with any drug, Lexapro has the risk of side effects.
Abdominal Upset
Nausea is one of the more common side effects associated with Lexapro use in adults and adolescents. Adolescents may also experience vomiting, states Lexapro.com. Most users find that abdominal discomfort improves after continued use of the drug. Persistent or overly bothersome nausea or vomiting is not common, and should be reported to a health care professional. A small number of users will develop diarrhea or constipation, states Drugs.com. Between 1 and 5 percent of users will develop various other abdominal discomforts, states eMedTV, including indigestion or a decreased appetite.
Sleep and Energy Changes
Some of the most common side effects associated with Lexapro deal with sleeping habits and energy levels. Up to 12 percent of users develop insomnia, or trouble sleeping, states eMedTV. Up to 13 percent will struggle with extreme tiredness, and up to 8 percent will have general fatigue. Until it is understood how this medicine impacts the user, driving or using heavy machinery should be avoided. Between 1 and 5 percent of users will dream more regularly when sleeping. These dreams can be vivid and startling, such as nightmares.
Sexual Problems
A small number of users will experience sexual side effects when using Lexapro. Up to 14 percent of men will have ejaculation problems, including an inability to reach an orgasm, or impotence, states eMedTV. Up to 7 percent of users will have a diminished sex drive, and up to 6 percent will have trouble reaching an orgasm. These sexual problems are not likely to resolve with continued use of the medication. Consumers should discuss these concerns with a health care professional.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can occur in up to 9 percent of individuals, states eMedTV. This symptom consists of a sensation of cotton in the mouth, thirst and even dry lips.
Dizziness and Headache
Of the common side effects, dizziness is the least common. EMedTV suggests that this side effect may stop as the body adjusts to the drug, but up to 5 percent of users will experience dizziness. A headache is more commonly associated with Lexapro, and it may diminish with continued use of the drug as well.
Vision Changes
Rare side effects of Lexapro are considered dangerous and should be reported to a health care professional. Drugs.com notes that these include vision changes, including blurred vision. Seeing hallucinations or developing double vision should also be reported.
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