Transcript Lexapro- Gina C

By: Gina Caprara
• Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) is a
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor
(SSRI) indicated for the acute and
maintenance treatment of major
depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and
adolescents aged 12-17 years and for the
acute treatment of generalized anxiety
disorder (GAD) in adults.
• Chemical messengers facilitate communication between
nerve cells in the brain and are involved in regulating
many aspects of behavior and mood.
• These chemicals are called neurotransmitters.
Neurotransmitter imbalances play an important role in
the development of depression and anxiety. Serotonin is
a neurotransmitter that has been clearly linked with
most, if not all, forms of depression. SSRIs are believed
to work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the
brain, thus increasing available serotonin.
• Drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia, nausea, heartburn,
weight changes, dry mouth, decreased sex drive
• Call doctor if you seek these side effects:
- Very stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, fast
or uneven heartbeats, tremors, overactive reflexes
- Headache, trouble concentrating, memory
problems, weakness, confusion, hallucinations,
fainting, seizure, shallow breathing or breathing that
stops.
• Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) tablets are film-coated,
round tablets containing escitalopram oxalate in
strengths equivalent to 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg
escitalopram base
• Take this medication by mouth with or without food as
directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning
or evening. Take it at the same time each day
• To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may
direct you to start taking this drug at a low dose and
gradually increase your dose.
• 20 MG – (30 pills) = $74 (60 pills) = $125
• 10 MG – (30 pills) = $52 (60 pills) = $87
• 5 MG – (60 pills) = $50 (90 pills) = $58