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Antidepressants > Lexapro
Lexapro
 Lexapro®
(Generic Name: E: ESCITALOPRAM)
Important
Note
The following
information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and
judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It
should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe,
appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional
before using this drug.
Uses
This medicine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used to treat
depression. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by
your doctor.
Directions
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This
medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. STORE THIS MEDICINE
at room temperature 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage between 59
and 86 degrees F ( 15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from light
and moisture. CONTINUE TO TAKE THIS MEDICINE even if you feel well. Do not
miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as
possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and
go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Side Effects
SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach, loss of appetite,
dizziness, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, or dry mouth. If they continue or
are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS
POSSIBLE if you experience increased sweating, unusual fatigue, changes in
sexual ability/interest. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience
stomach pain, vision changes, unusually fast or slow heartbeat, uncontrolled
movements (tremors), chest pain, unusual or severe mental/mood changes,
muscle cramps, restlessness, seizures, painful or prolonged erection, or
change in amount of urine. An allergic reaction to this medicine is
unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an
allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble
breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your
doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
Cautions
SEVERAL WEEKS MAY PASS before this medicine reaches its full effect. Do not
stop taking this medicine without checking with your doctor. THIS MEDICINE
MAY CAUSE drowsiness or dizziness. DO NOT DRIVE, OPERATE MACHINERY, OR DO
ANYTHING ELSE THAT COULD BE DANGEROUS until you know how you react to this
medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol
may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous
tasks. THIS MEDICINE WILL ADD TO THE EFFECTS of alcohol and other
depressants. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines
are depressants. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either
prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This
includes any medicines which contain drowsiness-causing ingredients. Ask
your pharmacist about the safe use of these products. Caution should be used
in the elderly since they may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug.
F0R WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the
benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. THIS MEDICINE IS
EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.
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