Lexapro™ (escitalopram oxalate) 10mg or 20mg Tablets

Manufacturer: Forest Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Indication(s):  Major depressive disorder

Dosage & Administration:  The recommended dose of Lexapro is 10mg orally once daily at the same time every day (either in the morning or evening).  It can be taken with or without food.

Pharmacology:  Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).  This allows more serotonin to be available thereby reducing depression.  Escitalopram has minimal effects on dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake.

WebRx Editorial Notes:  Serious and potentially fatal reactions can occur when Lexapro is combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) such as Eldepryl, Marplan, and Nardil.  Patients previously on MAOIs should wait 14 days after stopping before beginning treatment with Lexapro.  Also,  MAOI therapy should not begin until a 14 day period has passed after discontinuation of Lexapro.

Studies have shown no added benefit of a 20mg over 10mg dose.  If dosage is increased to 20mg it should be done after at least one week of the 10mg daily therapy.

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