Escitalopram, marketed in the United States as Lexapro, is a drug prescribed to treat both generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and mental depression. It is administered as a pill or solution. Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that enhances the activity of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. According to the Mayo Clinic, researchers believe this helps to balance brain activity thereby controlling the effects of depression and GAD.
Convulsions and Coma
Among the most serious of Escitalopram's rare side effects are convulsions. Convulsions are types of seizures characterized by uncontrollable bodily jerking and shaking. In most cases, this may go on for up to 2 minutes, the National Institutes of Health reports. Any type of seizure that continues for longer than 5 minutes requires emergency medical aid. The Mayo Clinic states that convulsions caused by escitalopram, no matter how long they last, are serious side effects that at least require a consultation immediately with your physician. Escitalopram also may induce coma, a state in which you are totally unresponsive to any external stimuli. It can last for a short time or many years.
Fatigue
Another rare side effect of escitalopram is general fatigue. If you feel abnormally tired or weak while taking the medication, it could be a side effect. If you experience general and severe fatigue while taking Lexapro, talk with your physician immediately.
Pain and Confusion
Escitalopram can sometimes cause pain in your body. You may, for example, feel pain in various muscles or experience cramps. Otherwise unexplainable headaches also may be a side effect of the medicine. Some users become mentally confused while taking the drug. This can include momentarily forgetting what you are doing or might be as severe as not being able to recognize people with whom you are familiar. Contact your doctor immediately about any of these problems.
Thirst and Urination
Taking this anti-depressant can affect your intake and output of fluids, too. Escitalopram can increase your thirstiness and at the same time reduce how much urine you produce. Again, get medical advice immediately for these problems.
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