Lexapro Adverse Effects

Lexapro is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults. Lexapro has also been approved for treating 12- to 17-year-old adolescents diagnosed with MDD. There are risks associated with using Lexapro. Adults being treated with Lexapro have experienced insomnia, nausea, increased sweating, fatigue, ejaculation disorder and decreased libido.

Overall, adolescents using Lexapro face the same adverse reactions as adults during trial studies. Adverse reactions in adolescents also include nasal congestion, back pain, urinary tract infection and vomiting.

Considerations

• Lexapro isn't approved for people with bipolar disorder. Those with depressive symptoms should have a complete screening to rule out the disorder before being treated with Lexapro. If a person presents a history of mania, depression, seizures or severe renal impairment, Lexapro should be used with caution. Others who should proceed with caution are people with conditions that produce hemodynamic responses or altered metabolism.

  Nursing or pregnant mothers should only use Lexapro if the benefits of use support the use over potential risk to the fetus or child.

Warning

• Until a person knows how she will react to Lexapro, the operation of heavy machinery-- including driving of cars--should be avoided.

  When deciding to stop using Lexapro, a person should be watched for adverse reactions. It's not recommended that a person stop abruptly; rather, your reduction in dose should be administered and monitored by a physician.

Risks for Adolescents

• Suicidal thoughts and tendencies have occurred with youths and adolescents using Lexapro in trial studies for adolescents with MDD. This should be taken into consideration and balanced when deciding to treat adolescents for depression. The risk should be balanced with the clinical need.

Others Who Should Use Lexapro With Caution

• It's not recommended for patients using aspirin or elderly patients taking diuretics. Also, patients taking monoamine oxidise inhibitors (MAOIs), patients with hypersensitivity to cilalopram or escitalopram, or those taking pimozide should take Lexapro with caution.

Depression and Treatment

• Depression symptoms vary greatly from person to person. Seeking the opinion of a trained professional for screening and evaluation is recommended. A person trained to treat depression can assess the level of and kind of treatment, and monitor as needed.

  Mood swings and changes in behavior should be shared with a physician.