Lexapro is a brand-name prescription medication used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Lexapro is available as an oral tablet. It contains the drug escitalopram, which is also available in generic form. Lexapro is only available via prescription from a licensed health care provider.

Doctors prescribe Lexapro to treat several mental health conditions, such as major depressive disorder (depression) and generalized anxiety disorder.

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is a mood disorder that negatively affects how you think, behave, and feel. Untreated depression can lead to a range of emotional and physical issues. The symptoms of depression may vary from person to person. They may appear mild in some, while they can be debilitating in others.

Health care providers prescribe Lexapro to treat generalized anxiety disorder. A person who suffers from an anxiety disorder may have constant feelings of worry, difficulty concentrating, and an inability to relax. If left untreated, anxiety may eventually interfere with work or school performance, personal relationships, and other daily functions.

Lexapro may be prescribed with other treatment strategies like therapy and lifestyle adjustments.

Lexapro belongs to a classification of medication known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs work by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin in our brain cells. Serotonin is a naturally occurring chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) responsible for regulating mood and helping you feel happy. Neurotransmitters send signals between your brain and neurons in the body. Once a signal has been sent, the neuron reabsorbs the serotonin to be recycled.

By blocking the reabsorption (or reuptake) of serotonin in the brain, SSRI medication allows the neurotransmitter to stay active in the brain longer. This can help balance your mood and reduce symptoms of major depressive disorder.

Lexapro has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these reactions do not disappear within a few days or become severe.

Common side effects reported from Lexapro use:

• Nausea
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Dizziness
  
• Weight loss
  
• Decreased appetite
  
• Fatigue and weakness
  
• Sweating
  
• Uncontrollable shaking
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Frequent urination
  
• Sexual dysfunction in males and females
  
  

This is not a complete list of adverse reactions. If you experience difficulty breathing, unusual bleeding or bruising, a skin rash, hives, fever, joint pain, muscle stiffness, difficulty with concentration, seizures, hallucinations, unusual excitement, or changes in your heart rate while taking Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.

Antidepressant drugs like Lexapro increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, so patients taking Lexapro should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or unusual changes in mood or behavior.

As with all prescription medications, inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been diagnosed with and any medications or supplements you currently take before starting treatment with Lexapro. Lexapro can interact with other medicines and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. Before beginning treatment with Lexapro, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or are planning on becoming pregnant.

Lexapro is commonly prescribed as a once-daily oral tablet. The exact dosage and schedule will vary depending on the patient's age, diagnosis, and body weight. Take the medication exactly as your doctor has instructed.

Do not increase your dosage or discontinue the use of Lexapro unless ordered to do so by your doctor. If you experience any adverse reactions, contact a health care provider. Your dosage may increase or decrease depending on how well you tolerate the medication.

You should store your medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Lexapro is only available via prescription from a licensed health care provider. Providers on Sesame can order Lexapro for local pickup on the same day. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for Lexapro to be picked up near you—often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.