Lexapro, a brand name for the generic drug escitalopram oxalate, is a medication used to treat major depression and general anxiety disorder. It belongs to a group of drugs classified as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. Serotonin is a chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) in the brain that enhances communication among the brain cells. SSRIs stabilize the amount of available serotonin in the brain, which is hypothesized to ameliorate symptoms.
Common Effects
There are multiple side effects people may experience when beginning this drug; those frequently reported are generally transitional as the body adjusts to the medication. Commonly experienced side effects include headaches, feeling tired or fatigued and sleeping problems. During clinical trials, headaches were the most common adverse effect, reported by 24 percent of participants; fatigue or tiredness was experienced by 20 percent of participants; and 12 percent of participants complained of insomnia. Additional side effects of decreasing frequency were dry mouth (9 percent), increased perspiring (8 percent) and dizziness or light-headedness (5 percent). The prescribing physician should be contacted if any of these effects do not dissipate with time or if they worsen.
Cluster Effects: Gastrointestinal
A group of side effects involves digestive or gastrointestinal symptoms, which may occur during the early phase of therapy. One to 5 percent of participants in the clinical trials noted a change in appetite (with decreased weight), indigestion and vomiting; and 8 percent complained of nausea. Other possible gastrointestinal side effects are diarrhea (8 percent) or constipation (6 percent). The physician should be contacted if any of these symptoms persist.
Cluster Effects: Sexual
Changes related to sex are very common with SSRIs. For example, during clinical trials, 7 percent of the participants reported a drop in sexual interest or decreased libido, and 14 percent reported ejaculation problems. Six percent indicated they had difficulty achieving orgasm. Erectile dysfunction was experienced less frequently (1 to 5 percent). Changes related to sexual activity occur at the beginning of the regimen and are quite common with this drug; patients should talk to their physician if these difficulties continue and cause concern.
Member Comments