Lexapro

Other names used:

• Cipralex®
• Esipram®
• Seroplex®

Active Ingredients:

• Escitalopram

How does Lexapro work and what pharmaceutical group does it belong to?

The active ingredient of Lexapro - Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant or in other words selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. The inhibition of serotonin reuptake leads to increased concentration of the neuromediator in the synaptic gap, increasing and prolonging its effects on the postsynaptic receptors. The preparation has no or mild effect on other receptors.

Which conditions are treated with Escitalopram?

The preparation is indicated in treatment of:

• Depressive episodes of different intensity
• Panic disorders with or without agoraphobia

What should a patient know before using Lexapro?

The Escitalopram should not be used in cases of:

• Hypersensitivity to any components of the drug
• Young age (prior to 15 years)
• Use of MAO inhibitors
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding

The preparation may affect the abilities of an individual to operate machinery and concentration.

Which adverse effects may manifest when using the medication?

The side effects of Lexapro include:

• Nausea
• Decreased appetite
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Somnolence or insomnia
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Increased sweating
• Hyperthermia
• Sinusitis
• Decreased libido
• Impotence
• Anorgasmia
• Erectile dysfunction
• Change of taste

Other less common side-effects may also occur:

• Orthostatic hypotension
• Hyponatremia
• Vision impairment
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Anaphylactic reactions
• Artralgia
• Myalgiav
• Seizures
• Tremor
• Serotonin syndrome
• Hallucinations
• Mania
• Confusion
• Panic attacks
• Irritation
• Depersonalization
• Urine retention
• Galactorrhea
• Skin rash
• Itching
• Purpura

It is not necessary that the side effects will manifest in an individual but the possibility still exist. For more information please consult your health care provider.

Which groups of drugs or specific preparations may interact with Escitalopram?

The drug is affected by the following:

• MAO inhibitors
• Serotonergic preparations
• Anticonvulsants
• Li+ preparations
• St John's Wort containing preparations
• Anticoagulants
• Alcohol
• H2-histamine receptor blockers
• Beta blockers
• Other antidepressants
• Antiarrhythmic preparations
• Neuroleptics

Tell your doctor about all the herbal preparations as well as prescription drugs that you are currently taking even if they are not on the list.

Important information for the patient:

Lexapro is supplied for individual use. Do not use it to treat other conditions not listed in the leaflet. Keep the product out of children reach. Do not reuse any disposable materials if supplied with the preparation.