Escitalopram Side Effects

Escitalopram is a commonly used selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, as well as other mood disorders. Its trade name is Lexapro. Although it is proven effective in the treatment of depression, escitalopram has several side effects, some more severe than others. It is extremely important to contact your doctor if you suffer from any of the the side effects described here.

Mood-related Side Effects

• Although escitalophram is approved for use in mental/mood disorders, it has been known to promote suicidal thoughts in rare cases. Especially at risk are those younger than age 25. As with suicidal ideation of any sort, it is important to speak with one's doctor or psychiatrist as soon as possible if such thoughts occur. Any change in dosage or regulation of the medication can increase the risk of side effects. Other mood-related side effects include increased anxiety, new anxieties, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, restlessness and rapid speech.

Minor Physical Side Effects

• Physical side effects of escitalopram include dry mouth, nausea, loss of appetite, weakness, tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, increased sweating, yawning and weight gain.

Severe Physical Side Effects

• In a few rare cases, the use of escitalopram has led to tremors, decreased interest in sexual intercourse, changes in ability to perform intercourse, stomach pain, fainting, bloody/black/or tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, easy bruising or bleeding, muscle cramps, seizures, an irregular or pounding heart beat and a change in the amount of urine produced.

Serotonin Syndrome

• In extremely rare circumstances, the use of escitalopram can lead to serotonin syndrome, a condition caused by increased levels of serotonin in the body. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome range from shivering and diarrhea to severe symptoms such as muscle rigidity, fever and seizures. In severe cases serotonin syndrome can prove fatal, but can go away as quickly as a day after the medication is discontinued. It's especially important for a physician to note possible drug interactions when giving more than one medication that increases serotonin levels.

Possible Drug Interactions

• The use of MAO inhibitors should be avoided with escitalopram for 2 weeks before treatment, during treatment and for 2 weeks after your last dose of escitalopram. Avoid taking pimozide, tryptophan and weight loss drugs, all of which may cause a severe drug interaction. The use of other SSRIs or SNRIs should be monitored due to increased risk of serotonin syndrome. It's extremely important to inform your doctor of all medications that you are currently taking when discussing any introducing a new prescription.