Lexapro - Escitalopram

What is it?

Composition

Lexapro contains the active substance escitalopram, which is the main component that has a therapeutic effect. In addition to escitalopram, the drug includes several excipients that ensure the stability and absorption of the drug by the body.

• Escitalopram oxalate is the main active ingredient that provides antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
• Microcrystalline cellulose is used as a filler that provides the necessary shape and consistency of tablets.
• Magnesium stearate provides good flowability of powders and prevents components from sticking together during production.
• Sodium croscarmellose promotes rapid and uniform dissolution of the tablet in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Colloidal silicon dioxide is used as an anti-sticking agent, improving the stability of the drug.

This set of components helps ensure maximum effectiveness of Lexapro, and also contributes to its convenient and safe use.

How to use?

The use of Lexapro requires careful adherence to the doctors recommendations, as the wrong dosage may reduce the effectiveness of treatment or cause side effects. The drug is usually taken once a day, regardless of food intake, which makes it convenient to use at any time of the day.

1. The starting dose of Lexapro is usually 10 mg per day. The doctor may gradually increase the dose to 20 mg depending on the patients response to treatment and tolerability of the drug.
2. The tablet should be swallowed whole, with a sufficient amount of water, without chewing or breaking.
3. The duration of treatment can vary from several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the condition and the response to therapy. It is important not to stop taking the drug suddenly without consulting a doctor, as this can cause withdrawal syndrome.

Lexapro treatment should be carried out under constant medical supervision, especially in the initial stages, when the optimal dose and regimen are determined.

How does it work?

Lexapro affects the brains serotonin system, which plays a key role in regulating mood, emotions, and anxiety. Escitalopram, the active ingredient in Lexapro, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It increases the level of serotonin in synapses, preventing its reuptake by nerve cells. This helps improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.

Increasing serotonin levels helps alleviate depressive symptoms such as sadness, loss of interest in life, and constant fatigue. In addition, Lexapro helps reduce the manifestations of anxiety disorders, improving the overall emotional state of the patient. The effect of treatment may become noticeable after several weeks of regular use, which requires patience and consistency in using the drug.

Thus, Lexapro has a long-term effect on the emotional state, helping to stabilize mood and reduce anxiety.

Indications

Lexapro is prescribed for the treatment of various mental disorders associated with serotonin imbalance in the brain. The main indications for the use of this drug are depressive states and anxiety disorders, for which Lexapro demonstrates high efficiency.

• Depression - Lexapro helps manage the main symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in life, and poor concentration.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) - the drug reduces excessive anxiety, which may be accompanied by physical symptoms such as muscle tension and sleep disturbances.
• Social Anxiety Disorder - Lexapro reduces fear of social situations, helping patients feel more confident and comfortable in society.
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - reduces the severity of obsessive thoughts and actions characteristic of OCD.
• Panic Disorder - Lexapro reduces the frequency and intensity of panic attacks, helping to regain control over life.

Each of these conditions requires an individual approach to treatment, and Lexapro can be an important part of a comprehensive therapy aimed at improving the patients quality of life.

Contraindications

The use of Lexapro is contraindicated in a number of cases where its use may pose a danger to the patients health. Before starting treatment, it is necessary to discuss with the doctor all existing medical conditions and contraindications in order to avoid negative consequences.

• Hypersensitivity to escitalopram or any of the excipients of the drug.
• Concomitant use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) - there is a risk of developing serious side effects, including serotonin syndrome.
• Severe renal or hepatic impairment - dose adjustment or complete drug withdrawal may be required.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding - Lexapro may be used only if the potential benefit outweighs the possible risks to the mother and child.
• Unstable epileptic condition - the drug may increase the risk of seizures.

Lexapro requires careful use, especially in patients with concomitant diseases, so it is important to follow all doctors recommendations and undergo regular medical examinations during treatment.

Side effects

Although Lexapro is generally well tolerated, like any medication, it can cause side effects. Most of these occur early in treatment and decrease over time, but in some cases they may persist or require dosage adjustments.

• Nausea is one of the most common side effects, which usually goes away within a few days after starting treatment.
• Headaches are also common, but rarely require discontinuing the drug.
• Drowsiness or, conversely, insomnia - Lexapro can affect sleep patterns, causing a feeling of fatigue or, conversely, difficulty falling asleep.
• Dry mouth is an unpleasant sensation that can be reduced by drinking more fluids.
• Decreased libido and difficulty achieving orgasm - this side effect may persist throughout the course of treatment and requires discussion with your doctor.

If any side effects occur, it is important to inform your doctor so that the dosage can be adjusted or the possibility of changing the therapy can be considered. In most cases, adverse reactions disappear as the body adapts to the drug.