Lexapro is a generic brand for the drug escitalopram. Lexapro belongs to a class of medication called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Lexapro, a prescriptive drug for depression and generalized anxiety disorder acts by increasing amount of serotonin which is a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps in maintaining mental balance. Lexapro helps to reduce symptoms of depression like fatigue, guilt feelings, lack of concentration and reduced interest in activities. Lexapro also relieves symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder such as restlessness, irritability and difficulty in concentration.

Lexapro dosage

Lexapro comes in 5mg, 10mg and 20mg tablets and is also available in liquid form. Generally, the effective and recommended dosage of Lexapro ranges from 10mg to 20mg daily. For patient suffering from depression and anxiety disorder, Lexapro dosage should start with 10mg a day and the dosage can be increased to 20mg after a week by the doctor if required. Lexapro is taken once in a day, either in the morning or night. However, your doctor should be notified before you withdraw Lexapro medication.

Lexapro and weight gain?

It has been generally reported that Lexapro medication results in weight gain. Lexapro is an antidepressants so its usage is accessory to weight gain. Fluid retention, lack of exercise and increased appetite are causes of weight gain by Lexapro, however, physical activity, eating fewer high calorie food is advised by experts to manage weight gain while on Lexapro medication.

Lexapro and alcohol?

Do not drink alcohol while on Lexapro medication. Drinking alcohol has been attributed to worsening the adverse effects of Lexapro on mental and motor skills.

Lexapro Side effects

Nausea, drowsiness, diarrhea, stomach disorder, intense tiredness, increased appetite, and running nose are common side effects of Lexapro. Lexapro, however has severe side effects which requires immediate doctor attention: irregular heartbeat, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, panic attack, aggressive behavior, unusual excitement and irritability, impulsiveness, confusion, trouble sleeping.


Adolescents, teens and adults younger than 24 years who are on Lexapro medication for depressive disorder and mental illnesses should be monitored. Lexapro medication brings suicidal thoughts and strange behaviors. A doctor should be contacted immediately your family members notices that new or sudden deviations in moods, thoughts, actions or feeling.

You should inform your doctor of your medical history; your doctor should know if you have a history of heart attack, liver disease, seizures before administering Lexapro medication. Also, inform your doctor about any illegal drugs and OTC medication, herbal mixtures or supplements you are taking before administering Lexapro to inhibit them from interacting with Lexapro. In addition, other antidepressants, anti-seizure medication, HIV drug norvir, migraine medication, sedatives and sleeping pills interacts with Lexapro medication so inform your doctor if you are on this medications. Do not take high doses of Lexapro; negative effects of overdose includes low blood pressure, tremor and seizures. The nearest poison call center should be called in case of overdose.