Revealed on: 25 Could 2023
Lexapro — or the generic model, Escitalopram — is a standard prescription remedy used to deal with anxiousness and despair. Lexapro is within the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of medication, which works by growing ranges of serotonin within the mind, which is a neurotransmitter that helps keep psychological stability.
Whereas meant to deal with despair and anxiousness, Lexapro can also be used off-label to deal with situations like obsessive-compulsive dysfunction (OCD), post-traumatic stress dysfunction (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric dysfunction (PMDD).
Questioning if you may get Lexapro on-line? The reply is sure. Arrange an internet psychiatry appointment at present with Talkspace. Hold studying as we discover Lexapro makes use of, uncomfortable side effects, dosage info, and extra. We’ll even have a look at the professionals & cons of utilizing the drug.
What’s Lexapro?
Lexapro is an oral remedy recognized to assist enhance temper and scale back signs related to despair or anxiousness.
How does Lexapro work?
Lexapro works by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin within the mind. This will increase serotonin ranges out there to be used by different neurons, so it might probably regulate feelings and profit folks with despair or anxiousness problems.
How does Lexapro make you’re feeling?
The results of taking Lexapro can range however typically embody improved moods and lowered anxiousness. As well as, individuals who take this remedy usually report feeling extra energized and higher in a position to give attention to duties all through the day.
Some folks might expertise unfavourable uncomfortable side effects like nausea, headache, insomnia, dry mouth, constipation, weight acquire/loss, and sexual dysfunction.
Lexapro Makes use of
Lexapro has been authorized to be used in treating main depressive dysfunction (MDD) and generalized anxiousness dysfunction (GAD) with a optimistic total response charge. Moreover, the drug has been discovered efficient in treating a number of different situations off-label (that means it’s usually prescribed for makes use of apart from what it was initially meant for).
“Lexapro is indicated for main depressive dysfunction and generalized anxiousness dysfunction. It’s additionally used off-label for panic dysfunction, signs of despair in bipolar dysfunction, and sure premenstrual signs.”
Lexapro for anxiousness
Lexapro could be a profitable therapy choice for anxiousness in many individuals. The Diagnostic and Statistical Handbook of Psychological Issues (DSM-V) states that GAD manifests as extreme fear and different signs that lasts for greater than six months.
At the least 3 or extra of the next signs are required for a GAD prognosis to be made:
- Restlessness or feeling “keyed up” or on edge
- Being simply fatigued
- Problem concentrating
- Thoughts going clean
- Irritability
- Muscle pressure
- Sleep disturbances
A number of research present that Lexapro therapy can successfully enhance signs of GAD, panic dysfunction, OCD, and social anxiousness. Additional, managed research specializing in relapse prevention present long-term efficacy.
Lexapro for despair
Adults and adolescents (ages 12 to 17) can use Lexapro as a therapy for main depressive dysfunction.
A significant depressive episode is characterised by the Diagnostic and Statistical Handbook of Psychological Issues (DSM-V) as a outstanding and chronic depressed temper lasting almost every single day for no less than two weeks.
At the least 5 of the next 9 signs have to be current for MDD to be identified:
- Depressed temper
- Change in urge for food
- Lack of curiosity in standard actions
- Important change in weight
- Elevated fatigue
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Slowed pondering or impaired focus
- Psychomotor agitation
- Emotions of guilt or worthlessness
- Suicide try or suicidal ideation
Research present that Lexapro can enhance signs of despair in adolescents. In adults, it resulted in symptom enchancment and successfully elevated the time between relapses.
Off-label makes use of
Lexapro is used off-label to cut back signs related to different psychological well being points past anxiousness and despair. For instance, it may be helpful in treating:
Lastly, some research recommend that taking Lexapro can enhance sleep high quality and period, probably resulting from elevated melatonin ranges, which helps regulate our sleep cycles.
Psychiatry and Prescriptions On-line
Obtain an analysis and prescription for psychological well being remedy (if wanted) from a psychiatry-trained medical supplier.
Execs & Cons of Lexapro
| Execs of Lexapro | Cons of Lexapro |
| Research present is an efficient antidepressant for treating despair and anxiousness | A typical facet impact is drowsiness, which could intervene with day by day actions |
| It really works by growing the degrees of serotonin within the mind, serving to to control temper | Potential for Lexapro withdrawal signs when stopped abruptly |
| Comparatively low danger of uncomfortable side effects in comparison with different antidepressants | Should be tapered off slowly underneath the steerage of a physician if discontinuing use |
| Might be taken recurrently | Could trigger weight acquire resulting from appetite-stimulating properties; nevertheless, it might probably often be managed by way of weight-reduction plan and train modifications |
| Typically well-tolerated and straightforward to take with few drug interactions | Model title will be costlier than some generic antidepressants, however the generic model is broadly out there (and each are sometimes coated by insurance coverage) |
“Lexapro is an SSRI and will increase the serotonin ranges within the mind that relieve the signs of despair and anxiousness options. It’s a gradual build-up remedy that takes about 4 to six weeks for it to work. The dose flexibility and lack of interplay with different medicines makes Lexapro a better remedy to make use of, particularly when mixture therapy is required.”
Aspect Results of Lexapro
Widespread uncomfortable side effects of Lexapro embody nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, insomnia, elevated sweating, and sexual dysfunction. These signs are often gentle and sometimes go away after just a few weeks of taking the remedy.
Much less frequent however extra extreme uncomfortable side effects embody:
- Adjustments in urge for food leading to weight acquire/loss
- Agitation or restlessness
- Problem concentrating
- Ideas of suicide or self-harm
- Uncommon conduct adjustments
- Tremors or shaking
- Confusion
- Fever or chills
- Quick heartbeat and seizures
If you happen to expertise these signs whereas taking Lexapro, contact your physician or healthcare supplier instantly for additional analysis and to debate therapy choices.
Lexapro Dosage
The commonest type of Lexapro is an oral pill taken as soon as day by day, with or with out meals.
- For anxiousness: The really useful beginning dose for adults is 10 mg day by day. Some folks might require increased doses of as much as 20 mg per day. Dosage ought to solely be elevated after no less than a 1-week trial of the minimal dose. Lengthy-term use of Lexapro for GAD needs to be monitored by a physician.
- For despair in adolescents: It’s really useful that adolescents begin on a ten mg dose of Lexapro day by day for despair. After a minimal of three weeks, the dose could also be elevated to as much as 20 mg.
- For despair in adults: Adults ought to take 10 mg of Lexapro every day for no less than 1 week earlier than probably growing to not more than 20 mg per day. For adults the place Lexapro has been efficient in treating despair, there will be long-term advantages to persevering with the drug, however dosage and therapy needs to be reevaluated periodically by a medical skilled.
Find out how to take Lexapro
Take Lexapro precisely as prescribed by your physician. Swallow the pill entire with water — don’t crush, chew, or break it aside earlier than swallowing it.
If you happen to miss a dose, take it as quickly as doable until it’s nearly time in your subsequent scheduled dose — then skip the missed one and proceed taking Lexapro in line with schedule. Do not double up doses when you overlook to take Lexapro.
Extra Issues
If you happen to’re contemplating taking Lexapro, it’s vital that you just’re conscious of potential interactions with different medicines and any warnings related to the drug.
Interactions
Sure medication can work together with Lexapro, growing or lowering its effectiveness. For instance, when you take a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) like phenelzine or tranylcypromine, don’t take Lexapro with out consulting your physician first and getting correct medical recommendation.
Moreover, combining Lexapro with different medication that have an effect on serotonin ranges within the physique might result in severe uncomfortable side effects, together with an elevated danger of serotonin syndrome.
Warnings
Be certain to inform your physician when you’ve been on an MAO inhibitor inside 14 days of beginning or stopping Lexapro. Don’t use Lexapro when you’re allergic to escitalopram or when you already take Pimozide.
Inform your physician when you take any of the next:
- Linezolid
- Isocarboxazid
- Rasagiline
- Tranylcypromine
- Selegiline
- Phenelzine
- Stimulants
- Opioids
- Natural merchandise
- Migraine remedy
- Treatment for Parkinson’s illness
There are security concerns relating to Lexapro and being pregnant, so make sure you let your physician know when you’re pregnant or nursing. Discuss to your physician if in case you have additionally ever had:
- Seizures
- Liver/kidney illness
- Coronary heart illness
- Hypertension
- Low sodium
- Bleeding
- Bipolar dysfunction
- Habit
- Suicidal ideas
Lexapro Options
If Lexapro doesn’t sound like the appropriate remedy for you or you have an interest in options, the next may match relying on a physician’s prescription.
Zoloft
One different to Lexapro for anxiousness and despair is Zoloft (Sertraline), one other SSRI remedy. Like Lexapro, Zoloft will increase serotonin ranges within the mind. Some folks discover that Zoloft has fewer uncomfortable side effects than Lexapro or that they’ve higher outcomes when taking it as an alternative of Lexapro. For extra detailed info, try our article on the variations of Lexapro vs. Zoloft.
Wellbutrin
Another choice for treating despair is Wellbutrin (Bupropion). This drug doesn’t belong to the identical class as SSRIs and doesn’t deal with anxiousness. It really works by boosting dopamine and norepinephrine within the mind. In consequence, Wellbutrin might relieve depressive signs with out inflicting sexual dysfunction or weight acquire like some antidepressants do. Moreover, Wellbutrin can profit individuals who expertise fatigue or lack motivation resulting from their situation.
Cymbalta
A 3rd choice for these in search of a substitute for Lexapro is Cymbalta (Duloxetine). This remedy belongs to a distinct class than each SSRIs and Wellbutrin. It’s generally known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). In contrast to different antidepressants, Cymbalta may assist relieve ache related to sure medical situations.
Effexor XR
Lastly, Effexor XR (Venlafaxine) is one more SNRI that could be prescribed as an alternative of Lexapro to deal with despair. It really works equally by growing ranges of norepinephrine and serotonin within the mind. As a result of Effexor might have extra uncomfortable side effects than different medicines, medical doctors often begin sufferers on decrease doses earlier than step by step growing them over time if vital.
On-line Lexapro Prescription By Talkspace Psychiatry
Talkspace Psychiatry may help decide if Lexapro may be proper in your situation. Talkspace presents a safe platform that connects you with licensed psychiatrists to make getting assist easy. You may get began rapidly with out ready weeks or months for an appointment like in additional conventional clinic settings.
Connecting with considered one of Talkspace’s psychiatrists is straightforward and easy. After finishing a quick evaluation, we’ll match you with a talented psychiatrist so you can begin your therapeutic journey and discover out if Lexapro is one thing you must contemplate.
Sources:
- Pelissolo A. Efficacy and tolerability of escitalopram in anxiousness problems: a assessment. L’Encéphale. 2008;34(4):400-408. doi:10.1016/j.encep.2008.04.004. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18922243/. Accessed February 6, 2023.
- DailyMed – LEXAPRO- escitalopram pill, movie coated LEXAPRO- escitalopram resolution. U.S. Nationwide Library of Drugs. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=13bb8267-1cab-43e5-acae-55a4d957630a. Accessed February 6, 2023.
- Ensrud KE, Joffe H, Guthrie KA, et al. Impact of escitalopram on insomnia signs and subjective sleep high quality in wholesome perimenopausal and postmenopausal girls with scorching flashes. Menopause. 2012;19(8):848-855. doi:10.1097/gme.0b013e3182476099. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3382013/. Accessed February 6, 2023.
Talkspace articles are written by skilled psychological health-wellness contributors; they’re grounded in scientific analysis and evidence-based practices. Articles are extensively reviewed by our staff of scientific specialists (therapists and psychiatrists of varied specialties) to make sure content material is correct and on par with present trade requirements.
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