What is Lexapro/Escitalopram oxalate used for?
This medicine is used for the treatment of depression and other related problems.
How should I take Lexapro/Escitalopram oxalate?
How much medicine you take and how often you take it depend on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of the medicine you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking this medicine. Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your health care provider. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. If more than one dose is missed, contact your health care provider or pharmacist. Take Lexapro (Escitalopram) with a full glass of water at the same time every day. Lexapro (Escitalopram) may take 4 weeks or longer to improve your symptoms. Talk to your doctor first before stopping the medication because you may experience unpleasant side effects if Lexapro (Escitalopram) is suddenly stopped.
How should Lexapro/Escitalopram oxalate be stored?
Store at room temperature in a cool dry place, protect from heat and light. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
When should Lexapro/Escitalopram oxalate not be taken?
Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any ingredient in this medicine or to similar medications.
What precautions should I follow when taking Lexapro/Escitalopram oxalate?
Before using this medicine, tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking or planning to take any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical condition if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, mania, receive electroconvulsive therapy, seizures (convulsions), suicidal thoughts or previous suicidal attempts, an unusual or allergic reaction to escitalopram, the related drug citalopram, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Lexapro/Escitalopram oxalate?
If you have been taking this medicine regularly for some time, do not suddenly stop taking it. You must gradually reduce the dose, or your symptoms may get worse. Ask your health care professional for advice.
What are the side effects of Lexapro/Escitalopram oxalate?
Most severe:Severe: Very stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, overactive reflexes; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, feeling unsteady, loss of coordination; or headache, trouble concentrating, memory problems, weakness, confusion, hallucinations, fainting, seizure, shallow breathing or breathing that stops.
Most common:Common: Drowsiness, dizziness; sleep problems (insomnia); mild nausea, gas, heartburn, upset stomach, constipation; weight changes; decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm; or dry mouth, yawning, ringing in your ears.
Other:Other: Contact emergency help if the following allergic reaction symptoms occur: skin rash or hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.