Lexapro (Escitalopram Oxalate)

Lexapro is an antidepressant medicine known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Lexapro is available in tablets and an oral solution.

Lexapro can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. Your doctor will monitor you closely for clinical worsening, suicidal or unusual behavior after you start taking Lexapro or start a new dose of Lexapro. Tell your doctor right away if you experience anxiety, hostility, sleeplessness, restlessness, impulsive or dangerous behavior, or thoughts about suicide or dying; or if you have new symptoms or seem to be feeling worse. Lexapro can cause serotonin syndrome (a potentially life-threatening drug reaction that causes the body to have too much serotonin, a chemical produced by the nerve cells) or neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a brain disorder) when you take it alone or in combination with other medicines. You can experience mental status changes, an increase in your heart rate and temperature, lack of coordination, overactive reflexes, muscle rigidity, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Tell your doctor right away if you experience any of these signs or symptoms. Lexapro can cause severe allergic reactions. Tell your doctor right away if you develop a rash, trouble breathing, or swelling of your face, tongue, eyes, or mouth. Your risk of abnormal bleeding or bruising can increase if you take Lexapro, especially if you also take blood thinners (such as warfarin), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), or aspirin. You can experience manic episodes while you are taking Lexapro. Tell your doctor if you experience greatly increased energy, severe trouble sleeping, racing thoughts, reckless behavior, unusually grand ideas, excessive happiness or irritability, or talking more or faster than usual. Lexapro can cause seizures or changes in your appetite or weight. Your doctor will monitor you for these effects during treatment. Lexapro can decrease your blood sodium levels, especially if you are elderly. Tell your doctor if you have a headache, weakness, an unsteady feeling, confusion, problems concentrating or thinking, or memory problems while you are taking Lexapro. Do not stop taking Lexapro without first talking to your doctor. Stopping Lexapro suddenly can cause serious symptoms, including anxiety, irritability, changes in your mood, feeling restless, changes in your sleep habits, headache, sweating, nausea, dizziness, electric shock-like sensations, shaking, or confusion.