What are the common side effects of 5mg Lexapro. How can patients manage nausea and headaches while taking escitalopram. When should someone seek medical attention for Lexapro side effects. What are the potential sexual side effects of escitalopram.

Understanding Escitalopram: An Overview of 5mg Lexapro

Escitalopram, commonly known by its brand name Lexapro, is an antidepressant medication belonging to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. Prescribed for various mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety disorders, Lexapro works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. While effective for many patients, it’s crucial to understand the potential side effects, particularly at the 5mg dosage.

Is Lexapro safe for everyone? While generally well-tolerated, Lexapro may not be suitable for all individuals. Factors such as age, existing medical conditions, and other medications can influence its safety profile. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or adjusting any medication regimen.

Common Side Effects of 5mg Lexapro: What to Expect

As with any medication, Lexapro can cause side effects in some individuals. It’s important to note that many people experience no side effects or only minor ones, which often improve as the body adjusts to the medication. Here are some of the most common side effects associated with 5mg Lexapro:

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Dry mouth
• Excessive sweating
• Insomnia
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue or weakness

How long do these side effects typically last? Many side effects of Lexapro are transient, often resolving within the first few weeks of treatment. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider.

Managing Nausea and Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Nausea is a common side effect of Lexapro, particularly when first starting the medication. To alleviate this symptom:

• Take Lexapro with or after food
• Avoid rich or spicy foods
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Stay hydrated
• Consider ginger-based remedies, known for their anti-nausea properties

Can over-the-counter medications help with Lexapro-induced nausea? While some OTC medications may provide relief, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before combining any medications with Lexapro to avoid potential interactions.

Coping with Headaches

Headaches are another common side effect of Lexapro, especially during the initial weeks of treatment. To manage this symptom:

• Ensure adequate rest and hydration
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your pharmacist
• Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises

Are there any natural remedies for Lexapro-induced headaches? Some patients find relief through alternative methods such as acupuncture, massage, or the application of peppermint oil. However, always discuss these options with your healthcare provider before trying them.

Sleep-Related Side Effects: Insomnia and Drowsiness

Lexapro can affect sleep patterns in different ways, causing insomnia in some patients and drowsiness in others. These contradictory effects can be particularly challenging to manage.

Dealing with Insomnia

If you’re experiencing difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep while taking Lexapro:

• Take the medication in the morning
• Establish a consistent sleep schedule
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine
• Avoid screens before bed
• Consider sleep-promoting supplements like melatonin (after consulting your doctor)

How can cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) help? CBT-I is a proven non-pharmacological treatment for insomnia that can be particularly effective for those experiencing sleep disturbances due to medications like Lexapro.

Managing Daytime Drowsiness

For those experiencing drowsiness or fatigue:

• Take Lexapro in the evening
• Avoid driving or operating machinery when feeling sleepy
• Incorporate regular exercise into your routine to boost energy levels
• Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated
• Consider short power naps, but avoid long daytime sleep sessions

Can caffeine help counteract Lexapro-induced drowsiness? While caffeine may provide a temporary energy boost, it’s important to use it judiciously as it can interfere with sleep and potentially interact with the medication. Always consult your doctor about the appropriate use of caffeine while taking Lexapro.

Sexual Side Effects of Escitalopram: Impact and Management

Sexual side effects are a significant concern for many patients taking SSRIs like Lexapro. These can include:

• Decreased libido
• Difficulty achieving orgasm
• Erectile dysfunction
• Vaginal dryness

While these effects can be distressing, it’s important to note that they often improve as the body adjusts to the medication. In some cases, the overall improvement in mood and well-being can positively impact sexual function over time.

Are there strategies to manage sexual side effects without discontinuing Lexapro? Several approaches can be considered:

• Adjusting the timing of medication intake
• Exploring non-pharmaceutical treatments like therapy or mindfulness practices
• Discussing potential dose adjustments with your doctor
• Considering the addition of medications to counteract sexual side effects

It’s crucial to maintain open communication with both your healthcare provider and your partner about these issues to find the most appropriate solution.

Serious Side Effects: When to Seek Medical Attention

While most side effects of Lexapro are mild and manageable, some can be serious and require immediate medical attention. It’s essential to be aware of these potential complications:

Signs of Serotonin Syndrome

Serotonin syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when there’s an excess of serotonin in the body. Symptoms include:

• High fever
• Agitation or confusion
• Rapid heart rate
• Dilated pupils
• Muscle rigidity or tremors
• Excessive sweating

How quickly can serotonin syndrome develop? Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can appear within hours of starting a new medication or increasing the dose of an existing one. Immediate medical attention is crucial if these symptoms occur.

Bleeding Abnormalities

SSRIs like Lexapro can affect blood clotting, potentially leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Unexplained bruising
• Nosebleeds that won’t stop
• Blood in urine or stool
• Coughing up blood

Are certain individuals at higher risk for bleeding complications? People taking blood thinners, those with a history of bleeding disorders, or individuals using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be at increased risk and should be closely monitored.

Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior

Paradoxically, antidepressants like Lexapro can sometimes increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults and adolescents. It’s crucial to monitor for:

• Sudden changes in mood or behavior
• Increased agitation or restlessness
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek immediate medical help or contact a mental health crisis hotline.

Long-Term Effects and Considerations of Escitalopram Use

While Lexapro is generally considered safe for long-term use, it’s important to be aware of potential long-term effects and considerations:

Weight Changes

Some patients may experience weight changes while taking Lexapro. This can include both weight gain and weight loss. Regular monitoring and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage these changes.

Bone Health

Long-term use of SSRIs has been associated with a slight increase in the risk of bone fractures, particularly in older adults. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, along with regular weight-bearing exercise, can help maintain bone health.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Abruptly stopping Lexapro can lead to withdrawal symptoms, often referred to as discontinuation syndrome. These may include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Flu-like symptoms
• Sensory disturbances (e.g., electric shock sensations)
• Mood swings

How can withdrawal symptoms be minimized? Gradual tapering of the medication under medical supervision is crucial to minimize the risk of discontinuation syndrome. Never stop taking Lexapro abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider.

Interactions and Precautions: Maximizing Safety While Taking Lexapro

To ensure the safe and effective use of Lexapro, it’s essential to be aware of potential drug interactions and take necessary precautions:

Drug Interactions

Lexapro can interact with various medications and substances, including:

• Other antidepressants, particularly MAOIs
• Certain pain medications, including tramadol and NSAIDs
• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Some migraine medications
• St. John’s Wort and other herbal supplements

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Alcohol Consumption

Combining Lexapro with alcohol can increase the risk of side effects and may diminish the effectiveness of the medication. It’s generally advised to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Lexapro.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The use of Lexapro during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration. While some studies suggest potential risks to the fetus or infant, untreated depression also poses significant risks. A thorough discussion with your healthcare provider is essential to weigh the benefits and risks in your specific situation.

Are there alternative treatments for depression during pregnancy? Non-pharmacological approaches such as psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effective alternatives or adjuncts to medication for some pregnant individuals with depression.

Monitoring and Follow-up

Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial when taking Lexapro. These visits allow for:

• Assessing the medication’s effectiveness
• Monitoring for side effects
• Adjusting dosage if necessary
• Addressing any concerns or questions

How often should follow-up appointments be scheduled? Initially, more frequent visits (e.g., every 1-2 weeks) may be necessary. As treatment stabilizes, appointments may be spaced out to every 1-3 months or as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Optimizing Treatment: Lifestyle Modifications and Complementary Approaches

While Lexapro can be an effective treatment for depression and anxiety, incorporating lifestyle modifications and complementary approaches can enhance its effectiveness and help manage side effects:

Exercise and Physical Activity

Regular exercise has been shown to have significant benefits for mental health. It can:

• Boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety
• Improve sleep quality
• Increase energy levels
• Help manage weight changes associated with Lexapro use

What types of exercise are most beneficial for mental health? While any form of physical activity can be beneficial, aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling have shown particularly strong positive effects on mood and anxiety levels.

Nutrition and Diet

A balanced diet can support overall mental health and help manage some side effects of Lexapro:

• Include omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, which may have mood-boosting properties
• Consume complex carbohydrates to help regulate serotonin levels
• Stay hydrated to combat dry mouth and support overall well-being
• Consider limiting caffeine intake, especially if experiencing sleep disturbances

Stress Management Techniques

Incorporating stress-reduction practices can complement the effects of Lexapro:

• Mindfulness meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Yoga or tai chi

How can these techniques help manage Lexapro side effects? Stress management practices can improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and potentially help manage side effects like headaches and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Social Support and Therapy

Maintaining strong social connections and engaging in therapy can significantly enhance the effectiveness of Lexapro treatment:

• Regular communication with friends and family
• Participation in support groups
• Individual or group therapy sessions

What types of therapy work well in conjunction with Lexapro? Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) have shown particular efficacy when combined with antidepressant medication like Lexapro.

Sleep Hygiene

Given that Lexapro can affect sleep patterns, implementing good sleep hygiene practices is crucial:

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine
• Ensure a comfortable sleep environment
• Limit screen time before bed
• Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime

By incorporating these lifestyle modifications and complementary approaches, individuals taking Lexapro can potentially enhance the medication’s effectiveness, better manage side effects, and improve their overall quality of life. However, it’s important to discuss any significant lifestyle changes or complementary treatments with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual situation.

Side effects of escitalopram – NHS

Like all medicines, escitalopram can cause side effects in some people, but many people have no side effects or only minor ones.

Some of the common side effects of escitalopram will gradually improve as your body gets used to it.

Common side effects

Common side effects of escitalopram happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Feeling sick (nausea)

Try taking escitalopram with or after food. It may also help if you avoid rich or spicy food.

Headaches

Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller.

Headaches should usually go away after the first week of taking escitalopram. Talk to your doctor if they last longer than a week or are severe.

A dry mouth

Chew sugar-free gum or suck sugar-free sweets.

Sweating a lot

Try wearing loose clothing and using a strong anti-perspirant. If this does not control the problem, talk to your doctor. You may need to try a different antidepressant.

Being unable to sleep

Take escitalopram first thing in the morning.

Feeling sleepy

Take escitalopram in the evening and cut down the amount of alcohol you drink. Do not drive, ride a bike or use tools or machinery if you’re feeling sleepy. If this does not help, talk to your doctor.

Feeling tired or weak

Stop what you’re doing and sit or lie down until you feel better. Do not drive, ride a bike or use tools or machinery if you’re feeling tired. Do not drink alcohol as it will make you feel worse.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and any of these side effects bother you or last more than a few days.

Serious side effects

Book an appointment with your doctor if:

• you lose or gain weight without trying
• you get changes in your periods, such as heavy bleeding, spotting or bleeding between periods

Call your doctor or call 111 now if:

• you have constant headaches, long-lasting confusion or weakness, or frequent muscle cramps – these can all be signs of low sodium levels in your blood
• you have a high temperature, feel agitated or confused, or you’re trembling and twitching – this could be a sign of serotonin syndrome
• you start coughing up blood or have blood in your pee
• you have black or red poo or blood in your vomit – these can be signs of bleeding from the gut
• you are bleeding from the gums, or have bruises that appear without a reason or get bigger

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

• you get painful erections that last longer than 2 hours – this may happen even when you’re not having sex
• you have severe dizziness or pass out
• you get any bleeding that’s severe or you cannot stop, such as cuts or nosebleeds that do not stop within 10 minutes
• you have thoughts about harming yourself or ending your life

Find your nearest A&E

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to escitalopram.

Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:

• your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
• you’re breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you’re choking or gasping for air)
• your throat feels tight or you’re struggling to swallow
• your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
• you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
• someone faints and cannot be woken up
• a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)

You or the person who’s unwell may also have a rash that’s swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.

These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Sexual side effects

The good effects of escitalopram may, after a while, improve your sex life as your mood lifts and you become interested in life and relationships again.

Some of the possible sexual side effects include:

• painful erections and problems getting an erection and ejaculating
• vaginal bleeding and not reaching orgasm the same way as before
• a lower sex drive

Sexual side effects usually pass after the first couple of weeks. However, very rarely, they can be long lasting and may not get better even after stopping the medicine.

If these happen and are a problem for you, go back to your doctor to see if there’s another treatment you can try.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of escitalopram. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 24 February 2022

Next review due: 24 February 2025

What are the side effects of Lexapro?

Doctors prescribe Lexapro for anxiety and depression. It can cause nausea, dizziness, and other side effects in adults. Lexapro can also potentially cause severe side effects, such as suicidal thoughts, and make depression worse.

If you have depression or generalized anxiety disorder, your doctor may want to give you Lexapro. This drug can be very effective in treating either condition. But like all drugs, it may cause side effects. Some of these may only be bothersome, while others may be severe and impact your health.

Learning about the side effects can help you decide if the drug is right for you. Here’s an overview of the side effects Lexapro can cause.

Lexapro is a prescription drug. It’s available as an oral tablet and an oral liquid solution. It’s approved for use in adults and children 12 years and older.

The medication belongs to the class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the amount of the chemical serotonin in your brain. Having more serotonin helps decrease the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Lexapro is not considered a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). MAOIs work by slowing down the breakdown of serotonin and dopamine, another chemical in your brain. This also helps alleviate symptoms of depression. However, MAOIs have a higher risk of side effects and drug interactions than SSRIs such as Lexapro.

SSRIs, including Lexapro, are tolerated well compared to other types of antidepressants. In general, you may have more side effects if you take a higher dosage of the drug. At a high dosage, Lexapro is more likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea.

Common side effects

The side effects of Lexapro seem to be the same in both men and women. The side effects are slightly different for adults and children.

Adult side effects can include:

• nausea
• sleepiness
• weakness
• dizziness
• anxiety
• sleeping trouble
• sexual problems, such as decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction
• sweating
• shaking
• loss of appetitive
• dry mouth
• constipation
• infection
• yawning

The side effects for children and adolescents can include the above, plus:

• increased thirst
• abnormal increase in muscle movement or agitation
• nosebleeds
• trouble urinating
• heavy menstrual periods
• slowed growth and weight change

There have been some cases of decreased appetite and weight loss with the use of Lexapro in children and adolescents. Your child’s doctor may check their height and weight during treatment.

People with depression tend to have a low appetite and reduced body weight. In adults, some sources say Lexapro may cause a small amount of weight gain. However, if you gain weight, your weight may just be evening out because your depression is better managed and your appetite has returned. Other people lose weight when they’re taking Lexapro. The increase in serotonin may lead to loss of appetite.

Most of these side effects are mild. They should eventually go away on their own without treatment. If they’re more severe or don’t go away, tell your doctor.

Boxed warning side effects

A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Lexapro may increase suicidal thoughts or actions. This risk is higher in in children, teenagers, or young adults. This is more likely to happen within the first few months of treatment or during dosage changes.

Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms, or call 911 or local emergency services if the symptoms are new, worse, or worrisome:

• attempts to commit suicide
• acting on dangerous impulses
• aggressive or violent actions
• thoughts about suicide or dying
• new or worse depression
• new or worse anxiety or panic attacks
• feeling restless, angry, or irritable
• trouble sleeping
• increased activity (doing more than what is normal for you)
• other unusual changes in your behavior or mood

Other serious side effects

Lexapro can also cause other serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 or local emergency services if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.

Severe allergic reactions

You should not take Lexapro if you’re allergic to it, its ingredients, or the antidepressant Celexa. Symptoms can include:

• breathing trouble
• swelling of your face, tongue, eyes, or mouth
• severe rash, hives (itchy welts), or blisters that may come on with fever or joint pain

Seizures or convulsions

There have been reports of some people having seizures while taking Lexapro. People with a history of seizures are at higher risk.

Serotonin syndrome

This is a serious condition. It happens when the levels of serotonin in your body get too high. It’s more likely to occur if you also take other drugs that increase serotonin, such as other antidepressants or lithium. Symptoms can include:

• agitation
• hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t real)
• coma (loss of consciousness)
• coordination problems, overactive reflexes, or muscle twitching
• racing heart rate
• high or low blood pressure
• sweating or fever
• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• muscle stiffness

Low salt levels

Lexapro may cause low salt levels in your body. This may be more likely to occur in seniors, people who take water pills, or people who are dehydrated. This side effect may cause:

• headache
• confusion
• trouble concentrating
• thinking or memory problems
• weakness
• unsteadiness that can lead to falls
• seizures

Manic episodes

If you have bipolar disorder, Lexapro may cause you to have a manic episode. Taking Lexapro without another drug for bipolar disorder may trigger an episode. Symptoms can include:

• greatly increased energy
• severe sleeping trouble
• racing thoughts
• reckless behavior
• unusually grand ideas
• excessive happiness or irritability
• talking quickly or more than normal

Vision problems

Lexapro may dilate your pupils. This may trigger a glaucoma attack, even if you don’t have a history of eye problems. Symptoms can include:

• eye pain
• changes in your vision
• swelling or redness in or around your eye

Side effects with other health conditions

If you have certain health conditions, you likely should not take Lexapro. In some cases, your doctor may lower your dosage or watch you more closely during your treatment with it. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions before taking Lexapro.

• A history of suicidal thoughts or behaviors—Lexapro can increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior, especially in children, teens, and young adults.
• Bipolar disorder—if you take Lexapro without taking other medications for bipolar disorder, Lexapro may bring on a manic episode.
• Seizures—this drug may cause seizures and make your seizure disorder worse.
• Glaucoma—this drug may bring on a glaucoma attack.
• Low salt levels—Lexapro can further lower your salt levels.
• Pregnancy—it isn’t known if Lexapro will harm your unborn baby.
• Breastfeeding—Lexapro may pass into breast milk and cause side effects in a child who is breastfed.

Certain medications can interact with Lexapro. Be sure to tell your doctor about all over-the-counter and prescription drugs, supplements, and herbs you take. Lexapro may interact with the following drugs:

• blood thinners such as warfarin to increase your risk of bleeding
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin to increase your risk of bleeding
• other drugs used to treat depression to increase the level of serotonin in your body, which can cause serotonin syndrome

Lexapro is a powerful drug used to treat depression and anxiety. While it can be very effective, it may also cause side effects. Be sure to tell your doctor about other health conditions you have and medications you take before starting Lexapro. This information can help your doctor reduce your chance of side effects. Also tell your doctor if you do have any side effects. If you can’t tolerate the effects, your doctor may change your medication. Keep in mind that Lexapro and other drugs in its class cause many of the same side effects.

Escitalopram instructions for use: indications, contraindications, side effects – description Escitalopram tab.

, cover. film coated, 10 mg: 10, 14, 28, 30 or 56 pcs. (44993)

Lexapro: common and serious side effects

Disclaimer

If you have any medical questions or concerns, contact your doctor. Articles in the Health Guide are based on peer-reviewed research and information from medical societies and government agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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Lexapro side effects

Passing a day when you are depressed is already a lot to achieve. Depression doesn’t just affect the mind; it also affects the body. Depression and chronic pain are closely linked (Lee, 2018). So it’s only natural if you want to know if your antidepressant is causing side effects, what they are, and how likely you are to experience them when you’re already dealing with depression.

Vitals

• Lexapro is the brand name for the drug escitalopram. It is FDA approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
• Generic Lexapro has the same active ingredient as the branded version.
• Common side effects of Lexapro include fatigue, nausea, sleep problems, and sexual dysfunction.
• Lexapro may cause more serious side effects such as serotonin syndrome and worsening depression in children and adolescents.

What is Lexapro?

Lexapro is a prescription drug from a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. SSRIs are used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Researchers believe that depression is caused by an imbalance of chemicals in our brain, and globally by SSRIs. are considered first line treatment (Bauer, 2009).

Lexapro is specifically approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), but it may be used off-label by healthcare professionals to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) (Zutshi, 2007).

Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram oxalate. Although escitalopram can be confused with alprazolam, a common anxiety medication sold under the brand name Xanax, these medications are not the same. Previously, Lexapro could only be manufactured by Forest Laboratories Inc. (in partnership with pharmaceutical company Lundbeck).

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Lundbeck has made Lexapro available as a tablet or oral solution. Tablets come in three dosages: 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg. The oral solution is only available in one strength equivalent to 5 mg (FDA, n.d.). Lexapro was launched in 2002, but its patent expired in March 2012, which meant that other companies could seek approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to manufacture and market escitalopram (Llamas, 2013) .

What are SSRIs and how do they work?

Depression can be treated in many ways, and there are several types of antidepressants. Medications used to treat this mood disorder include (FDA, 2009):

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Atypical antidepressants pressants
• Selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI)

Many different types of SSRIs also exist, including: 0303 Fluoxetine (trade name Prozac, Sarafem, Symbiax)

In the brain, chemical messengers called neurotransmitters carry messages from brain cell to brain cell. Serotonin is one type of neurotransmitter. SSRIs work by keeping serotonin levels high between brain cells. SSRIs are thought to treat certain mental illnesses in this way.

Possible side effects of Lexapro

Here are the most common potential side effects of Lexapro and how often they occurred in participants with MDD in clinical trials testing the drug’s efficacy and safety:

• Nausea (15%)
• Sleep problems (9%)
• Ejaculation disorder (9%)
• Diarrhea (8%)
• Drowsiness (6%)
• Dry mouth (6%)
• Increased sweating (5%)
• Dizziness (5%)
• Flu-like symptoms (5%)
• Tiredness/fatigue (5%)
• Loss of appetite (3%)
• Low sex drive (3%)

These common Lexapro side effects also appear to be dose-dependent, meaning that you are more likely to experience these side effects if you take 20mg than 10mg. Other potential side effects of Lexapro were noted, although they were not observed in more than 2% of the participants in these studies. These symptoms included weight gain, blurred vision, muscle stiffness, and joint pain (FDA, 2017).

In clinical trials, 8% of participants who received Lexapro for GAD and 6% of participants who received prescription drug for MDD discontinued the drug due to side effects. MDD treatment studies have shown that more people stopped using Lexapro when they were given 20mg rather than 10mg daily.

If you are experiencing side effects from Lexapro, it is important to talk to your doctor before stopping your medication. If you stop taking Lexapro suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as nightmares, irritability, headache, nausea, dizziness, or vomiting (NAMI, 2016).

Side effects of Lexapro in men and women

Unfortunately, sexual dysfunction is a common side effect of SSRI treatment. In fact, studies have shown that this specific side effect occurs in 20–70% of patients taking these medications and is a common reason patients want to stop treatment (Osis, 2010). These sexual side effects include:

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• Erectile dysfunction
• Ejaculation disorder (delayed ejaculation)
• Decreased libido

Although researchers have noted this effect with many SSRIs, paroxetine causes the highest rate of sexual dysfunction. Patients taking SSRIs who experience changes in their sex drive or sexual satisfaction should discuss these changes with their health care providers. In some cases, bupropion, mirtazapine, vilazodone, vortioxetine, or SNRIs may be good alternative treatments (Jing, 2016).

Lexapro drug interactions

You should not take Lexapro with certain medicines, including triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s wort. You should also avoid prescription drugs that affect the breakdown of serotonin in the body, especially MAOIs such as rasagiline and tranylcypromine. Combining these drugs increases the risk of a serious condition called serotonin syndrome. This syndrome occurs when there is too much active serotonin in your body. It can cause mild symptoms such as tremors and diarrhea, but can also be life-threatening (Volpi-Abadie, 2013).

You should also be careful when taking Lexapro with any blood-thinning medications, from real prescription blood thinners like warfarin to over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. Lexapro may increase your risk of bleeding if you take these medicines.

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Lexapro Warnings

It may take some time to experience the full effects of Lexapro and understand the extent to which you experience side effects. Lexapro may cause drowsiness and may affect your ability to make decisions or react to events. For this reason, it is recommended that you do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you understand how this antidepressant affects you.

For the same reason, standard medical advice is to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Lexapro. Alcohol similarly affects your ability to make decisions and react to events. Clinical trials have not shown that Lexapro aggravates these effects of alcohol, but it is possible that the combination could be dangerous in certain situations.

Patients and their families should be monitored for any behavioral changes, including worsening depression, panic attacks, and suicidal ideation, when Lexapro is started or after a dose change. Children, teenagers, and young adults are at increased risk for these side effects. In fact, the FDA has required all manufacturers of antidepressants to update their SSRI drug package information to include these risks found in short-term studies (FDA, 2018).

When to Seek Medical Care

There are serious potential side effects of antidepressants such as Lexapro. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience increased depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Contact someone if you notice unusual changes in mood or behavior. You should also call your doctor right away if you experience (FDA, 2017):

• Any symptoms of serotonin syndrome, including coordination problems, hallucinations, palpitations, sweating, nausea, vomiting, muscle stiffness, or high or low blood pressure. pressure.
• Any symptoms of an allergic reaction, including swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing, rash or hives.
• Seizures
• Abnormal bleeding
• Manic episodes, which may include spasmodic thoughts, increased energy, reckless behavior, and talking more or faster than usual.
• Changes in appetite or weight, especially in children and adolescents.
• Problems with vision, including eye pain, swelling or redness around the eyes.

Recommendations

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2. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (no data). Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) Tablets / Oral solution label. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/021323s032,021365s023lbl.pdf
3. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2017, January). Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate). Extracted from https://www. accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021323s047lbl.pdf
4. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2009, September). Medications to help you: depression. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/media/77381/download
5. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2018, February 05). Suicidality in children and adolescents treated with antidepressants. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/suicidality-children-and-adolescents-being-treated-antidepressant-medications
6. Jing, E., Straw-Wilson, K. (2016). Sexual dysfunction in selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and possible solutions: a review of the narrative literature. Psychiatrist, 6(4), 191–196. DOI: 10.9740 / mhc.2016.07.191. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29955469/
7. Lee, H., Choi, E.J., Nah, F.C., Yun, I.Yu., and Lee, P B. (2018). Prevalence of unrecognized depression in patients with chronic pain without a history of psychiatric illness. Korean Journal of Pain, 31(2), 116-124. DOI: 10.3344/kjp.2018.31.2.116. Extracted from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29686810/
8. Lama, M. (January 21, 2013). Manufacturer Lexapro is struggling with patent expiration, lawsuits are mounting. Retrieved from https://www.drugwatch.com/news/2013/01/21/lexapro-manufacturer-struggles-as-patent-expires-lawsuits-grow/
9. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2016, January). Escitalopram (Lexapro). Extracted from https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Escitalopram-(Lexapro)
10. Osis, L., & Bishop, J. R. (2010). Pharmacogenetics of SSRIs and sexual dysfunction. Pharmaceuticals, 3(12), 3614-3628. DOI: 10.3390/ph4123614. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4034069/
11. Wolpi-Abadie, J., Kay, A. M., and Kay, A. D. (2013). serotonin syndrome. Ochsner Journal, 13(4), 533–540. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3865832/
12. Zutshi, A.