What Is Lexipro?
Anxiety and depression are two common mental health conditions found in adults and adolescents. There are a variety of treatments for these conditions, including therapy and medication. Lexapro is a medication that is commonly prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can be very effective for many patients, but it also has some potentially negative side effects and must be used properly.
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Definition
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Lexapro is a medication manufactured by Forest Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and used for the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder. It's generic name is escitalopram, and it is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which means that it boosts the level of serotonin in the brain. It is believed by many scientists that a lack of serotonin can cause or contribute to depression. SSRI drugs like Lexapro are believed to work by correcting a chemical imbalance. Medicine Net says that it is chemically similar to citalopram, which is sold as Celexa.
Use
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In addition to treating anxiety and depression, Lexapro is often prescribed for off-labels uses such as treating panic attacks, social anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Although it is most commonly used by adults, it can also be used for adolescent patients. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved it as a treatment for Major Depressive Disorder in youngsters from age 12 to 17. It is not approved for the treatment for any other conditions in adolescents.
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Timeframe
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Lexapro is taken once per day, either in the morning or evening. Medicine Net says that the initial does is usually 10 mg, although that may be increased by a doctor. According to its manufacturer, it typically starts working within one to two weeks. However, it can take up to six weeks for the drug to fully take effect.
Side Effects
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Forest Pharmaceuticals says that Lexapro's main side effects include drowsiness, insomnia, fatigue, nausea, increased sweating, decreased sex drive and difficulty achieving orgasm. It may cause problems if used with certain other medications like monoamine oxidase inhibitors, other SSRIs and other psychotropic medications. It should not be combined with blood thinners, diuretics and certain pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen.
Warning
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Although Lexapro is approved for use in depressed adolescents, studies have shown that it may increase suicidal thinking and behavior in children, teenagers and young adults. Patients between 12 and 17 years of age should be carefully monitored for a worsening of symptoms or any suicidal thoughts or plans. Any problems should be reported to the doctor immediately. The drug's manufacturer says it should not be used in children younger than 12.
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References
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