Lexapro is an SSRI, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, that is approved by the FDA to treat major depression and generalized anxiety disorder. The generic form of Lexapro--escitalopram--is not approved by the FDA for sale in the U.S. as of August 2010. SSRI drugs have the same mechanism of action in the brain and the same general side effect profile, so patients looking for a generic version of Lexapro might consider trying a different SSRI.
Considerations
SSRIs block the reabsorption of one of the main chemical messengers in the brain--serotonin--in certain nerve cells without affecting other neurotransmitters. Serotonin sends nerve impulses that affect mood. Higher levels reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. The SSRI drugs affect the same pathways in the brain. However, patients respond differently to the specific compound in each drug, and individual side effects vary. The SSRIs are approved to treat depression, but not all have been evaluated to treat generalized anxiety disorder. If you are new to SSRIs you should work with your doctor to identify the best medication and dose and should alert your doctor to any worsening of symptoms or concerns. Do not stop or alter your dose of any SSRI without a doctor's advice.
Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine is the generic version of Prozac approved to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder--PMDD--and panic disorder. Common side effects include an inability to sit still, restlessness, skin rash and hives. Chills, fever and joint or muscle pain are less common. Patients taking pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen with fluoxetine have an increased risk of bleeding problems. Patients may also experience decreased appetite, sex drive or sexual ability that returns to normal after several weeks.
Citalopram
Citalopram is the generic version of Celexa that is approved for depression. The common side effect is a decrease in sexual desire or ability. Less common side effects include confusion, agitation, lack of emotion, memory loss, menstrual changes, increase in frequency of urination and rash. Symptoms of drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea and sleeplessness may go away after taking citalopram for several weeks.
Paroxetine
Paroxetine is the generic form of Paxil approved to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder--PMDD--and panic disorder. Agitation, chest pain or congestion, chills, cold sweats, confusion, dizziness when getting up from a seated or lying position, irregular or pounding heartbeat, muscle pain or weakness or a rash are infrequently reported side effects. Heartburn, sour stomach, gas, decreased appetite, nervousness, decreased sexual ability or desire, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, problems urinating and a runny or stuffy nose are common side effects that often go away after several weeks on paroxetine.
Sertraline
Sertraline is the generic version of Zoloft approved to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder--PMDD--and panic disorder. Decreased sexual ability or desire and failure to discharge semen are commonly reported side effects. Restlessness, fever, fast pounding or irregular heartbeat, uncontrolled fast talking and excited feelings, drowsiness, muscle spasms and rash are less common side effects. Heartburn, acid stomach, gas, decreased appetite, drowsiness, increased sweating and diarrhea are common side effects that often go away after several weeks on sertraline.
