Lexapro, also known as escitalopram, is a medication used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. The active ingredient in Lexapro is escitalopram oxalate. It helps to balance certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood. Lexapro is sometimes referred to by its generic name, escitalopram.
Typically, Lexapro is priced from £0.22 up to £1.43 per pills. Variance in price is rooted in the pack’s volume and the concentration of active entities (30 or 360 mg).
Lexapro contains the active ingredient escitalopram oxalate. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) which works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain.
Lexapro is the brand name for the generic medication escitalopram. It is produced by the pharmaceutical company Forest Laboratories.
Lexapro is primarily prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older. It is also indicated for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults.
Lexapro is administered orally, typically in the form of a tablet or an oral solution. The tablet is available in strengths of 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg.
The initial recommended dose for adults with major depressive disorder is 10 mg once daily, which may be increased to 20 mg depending on the patient’s response. For generalized anxiety disorder, similar dosing applies. Dosage adjustments should be made cautiously in elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment.
Lexapro has a half-life of approximately 27-32 hours. It is metabolized primarily in the liver and excreted mainly via urine. Peak plasma concentrations are usually reached within 4-6 hours post-dose.
The primary metabolite of escitalopram is S-demethylcitalopram, which has a similar but less potent effect on serotonin reuptake inhibition. This metabolite is further metabolized before excretion.
Lexapro increases serotonin concentrations in the synaptic cleft by inhibiting its reuptake into the presynaptic neuron. This elevates mood and reduces anxiety, contributing to its antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
The duration of Lexapro therapy can vary significantly based on the condition being treated and the patient’s response. Typically, treatment for depression or anxiety may continue for several months to years.
If a dose of Lexapro is missed, patients should take it as soon as they remember. If it is near the time for the next dose, they should skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Double dosing should be avoided.
Lexapro can interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. Combining Lexapro with other serotonergic drugs, anticoagulants, and NSAIDs may increase the risk of bleeding. Caution should be exercised when used concurrently with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants.
Store Lexapro at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Avoid excessive heat and moisture. Keep the medication in its original container and keep it tightly closed when not in use.
Lexapro is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to escitalopram or citalopram. It is also contraindicated in those taking MAOIs or pimozide, as well as patients with a history of serotonin syndrome.
Lexapro should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in human milk, so caution should be exercised when administered to breastfeeding mothers.
Common side effects include nausea, insomnia, fatigue, dry mouth, increased sweating, and sexual dysfunction. Serious side effects may include serotonin syndrome, severe allergic reactions, and abnormal bleeding.
Symptoms of Lexapro overdose include dizziness, tremor, agitation, and alterations in cardiac rhythm. In case of overdose, immediate medical attention is required, and supportive measures should be provided as needed.
Prolonged use of Lexapro may lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. Long-term users should be monitored regularly by a healthcare provider.
Patients with bipolar disorder may experience manic episodes with Lexapro use. It should be used with caution in individuals with a history of mania or hypomania.
For patients with hepatic impairment, the dosage of Lexapro should be reduced. These patients should be closely monitored for adverse effects.
In patients with severe renal impairment, careful consideration and possible dosage adjustment of Lexapro are advised.
Discontinuation of Lexapro can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, sensory disturbances, and agitation. Gradual dose reduction is recommended.
Lexapro dosing may require adjustments in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity and reduced clearance. Pediatric use for depression is approved but requires careful dose management.
Regular clinical monitoring of mood, behavior, and physical condition is advised for patients on Lexapro, especially during initial treatment stages and dose changes.
Patients with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or seizure disorders should be closely monitored when taking Lexapro, as it may exacerbate these conditions.
Patients typically start to see improvement in depressive and anxiety symptoms within 1-2 weeks of initiating Lexapro, although full effects may take 4-6 weeks to manifest.