Lexapro is a prescription medication used to treat depression and anxiety. Lexapro belongs to a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which may work by increasing the amount of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance.
This medication comes in tablet and oral solution forms and is taken once a day, with or without food.
Common side effects of Lexapro include insomnia, nausea, and tiredness.
WARNINGS: SUICIDALITY AND ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS
Antidepressants increased the risk compared to placebo of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents and young adults in short-term studies of major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of Lexapro tablets or any other antidepressant in a child, adolescent or young adult must balance this risk with the clinical need. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older. Depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide. Patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality or unusual changes in behavior. Families and caregivers should be advised of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber. Lexapro tablets are not approved for use in pediatric patients less than 12 years of age.
