Lexapro is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient escitalopram. This medication is typically administered orally as a liquid or tablet twice daily or as directed by a doctor. Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, a type of antidepressant that increases the amount of the neurochemical serotonin in the brain. Patients should consult a doctor to discuss any questions or concerns they have regarding the indications for Lexapro.
Major Depressive Disorder
Lexapro is indicated to treat major depressive disorder, or MDD, in patients over the age of 12. Nearly 15 million adults in the United States suffer from MDD, according to the Lexapro product site. Symptoms of MDD can include fatigue, suicidal thoughts, weight changes, irritability and feelings of hopelessness, inadequacy or guilt. Using Lexapro can help elevate mood-balancing chemicals within the brains of patients with MDD, thereby alleviating these oftentimes debilitating symptoms.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
This medication is also indicated to treat adult patients who have generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD. Patients with GAD experience constant or recurrent tension or worry that persists for several months or years. These patients can also develop symptoms of restlessness, irritability or difficulty sleeping, the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia warns. Using Lexapro can help restore chemical imbalances within the brains of GAD patients.
Contraindications
Certain patients should not use Lexapro. This medication is contraindicated for patients taking pimozine or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, according to Forest Pharmaceuticals, Inc., the manufacturer of Lexapro. Additionally, patients who are allergic to any of the components of Lexapro, such as escitalopram, should not receive treatment with this medication. Use of this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding can cause medical complications in certain women and the developing baby, Drugs.com warns. Women who become pregnant while taking Lexapro should speak with a doctor before deciding to end treatment.
