What should I know about Lexapro before taking it?

Lexapro (escitalopram) can cause very low sodium levels in your blood. Tell your healtcare provider right away if you experience weakness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, headache or memory problems.

What are the side effects of Lexapro (escitalopram)?

Your risk goes up if you use Lexapro (escitalopram) with other medications that affect serotonin levels (antidepressants, lithium, triptans, St. John's wort). Symptoms of too much serotonin include fast heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, fever, and confusion.

What is the starting dose of Lexapro for anxiety?

The starting dose for treating anxiety is 0.25-0.5 mg 3 to 4 times daily using immediate release tablets. The dose may be increased every 3-4 days to a maximum dose of 4 mg daily. The starting dose for treating panic attacks is 0.5 mg 3 times daily. Doses can be increased every 3-4 days but by no more than 1 mg daily.
Precautions 1 You should not take Lexapro if you're hypersensitive to escitalopram oxalate,… 2 The effectiveness of Lexapro for use with children younger than 18 years… 3 Use Lexapro with caution if you're pregnant or breastfeeding as the medication can be passed… 4 Finally, side effects of the medication can be more severe in older adults.

How much Lexapro is safe to take for hepatic impairment?

How much Lexapro is safe to take for hepatic impairment?
10 mg/day is the recommended dose for most elderly patients and patients with hepatic impairment. No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. Lexapro should be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment.

Who should not take Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate)?

Who should not take Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate)?
People with allergies: You should not take Lexapro if you're hypersensitive to escitalopram oxalate, meaning that you have a known allergy to the medication and experience symptoms of allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, mouth, or tongue.

How long can you take Lexapro for major depression?

Major depressive disorder age 12 to 18 : 10 mg per day and increased to 20 mg per day after one week if necessary If you are experiencing the first episode of depression or anxiety, you may take Lexapro for a defined period such as between six months and one year.