›› Lexapro
If you suffer from
depression and or generalized anxiety disorder, there are many new drug
treatments available that can help you have a better quality of life.
Lexapro is one of these new drugs. It is in the class of
antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and
has fewer side effects compared to older antidepressants. The usual
dosage is one 10mg tablet per day, and most patients begin to see an
improvement in their symptoms in as little as one to two weeks, for
some patients it may take a longer. Other types antidepressants may
take up to three to four weeks to be effective and are not as well
tolerated.
Lexapro works to improve the chemical imbalance in the brain by
blocking reabsorption of serotonin, therefore making more of the
neurotransmitter available while having a minimal effect on other brain
chemicals. Increased serotonin lifts the mood and improves symptoms of
depression and anxiety. After these symptoms begin to improve it is
important that patients continue taking Lexapro as prescribed by their
psychiatrist. Depression and anxiety can be long term illnesses, and
the symptoms often overlap. In more serious cases, there may be other
psychiatric conditions present as well. Stopping the medication
abruptly can lead to a relapse with symptoms recurring, which could
possibly be worse than they were before starting the medication.
Some patients may require a dosage adjustment if symptoms do not
improve or if side effects to do not go away after a few weeks of
treatment. The most common side effects of Lexapro are nausea,
insomnia, sweating, decreased libido, somnolence, fatigue, anorgasmia,
and ejaculatory dysfunction. According to www.lexapro.com, the rates of
side effects reported were comparable to those reported by subjects
taking a placebo. As with any drug, abstain from driving, operating
heavy machinery, or participating in any hazardous activities if
fatigue or dizziness is present. The use of alcohol is also discouraged
because it can intensify side effects and possibly increase symptoms of
depression and anxiety.
Be sure to ask your pharmacist if Lexapro is compatible with other
prescription drugs or herbal remedies you may be taking, and inform
your physician and psychiatrist as well. Read the literature that is
provided by your pharmacy so you are well informed of the uses,
actions, side effects, and other pertinent information regarding
Lexapro. Information is also readily available online and from your
physician, as well as in drug publication manuals and literature
available at your local pharmacy or library.
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A Healthy Dose of Good Advice
