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When using escitalopram (Lexapro), it is crucial to be aware of potential risks and safety concerns. This medication can provide significant benefits but also carries specific warnings and precautions. Below is a comprehensive list of safety information to consider:

• Worsening Depression and Suicidal Thoughts: There is a risk of worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual behavior, particularly in individuals under 25 years of age, during the initial weeks of treatment or when adjusting the dose. Immediate medical attention is necessary if you or someone you know experiences these symptoms.

• Serotonin Syndrome: This rare but serious condition can occur when there is an excess of serotonin in the brain, especially if escitalopram is used with other medications that increase serotonin levels. Symptoms include a fast heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness, fever, and confusion. Seek urgent medical care if these occur.

• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping escitalopram can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, anxiety, and dizziness. Always consult your healthcare provider for a safe discontinuation plan.

• Risk of Bleeding: Escitalopram may increase the risk of severe bleeding, particularly if taken with blood-thinning medications. Look out for bruising, black stools, or unusual bleeding and get medical help if these symptoms develop.

• Bipolar Disorder: For individuals at risk of bipolar disorder, escitalopram may trigger manic episodes. It should not be used alone for bipolar depression. Monitor for behavioral changes and consult your psychiatrist if they occur.

• Glaucoma: Escitalopram may worsen angle-closure glaucoma. Regular eye exams are advised, and any vision changes should be reported promptly.

• Heart Rhythm Issues (QT Prolongation): This medication can cause life-threatening heart rhythm changes. Those with heart conditions, electrolyte imbalances, or taking specific other medications should be monitored closely. Seek immediate help if experiencing chest pain or dizziness.

• Low Blood Sodium Levels: Escitalopram can cause low sodium levels, with symptoms like confusion and headaches. This condition requires urgent medical intervention.

• Sexual Side Effects: The medication may lead to sexual dysfunction, including low libido and erectile issues. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Contraindications:

• Do not use if currently taking or have recently taken MAOIs, linezolid, methylene blue, or pimozide.
• Avoid if allergic to citalopram.

Consult your healthcare provider to discuss any concerns or if any of these warnings apply to you. Always inform them of any other medications you are taking to manage potential interactions effectively.

When taking this medication, some common side effects might include headache, nausea, ejaculation problems, sleepiness, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, diarrhea, tiredness, dizziness, sweating, low appetite, indigestion, constipation, lower sexual drive, trouble having an orgasm, and flu-like symptoms. These effects are generally mild and temporary, but if they persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

On a more serious note, there are rare side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include suicidal thoughts or behaviors, symptoms of serotonin syndrome such as a fast heart rate, severe dizziness, excessive sweating, muscle spasms, and hallucinations. Abnormal heart rhythms can manifest as chest pain, palpitations, or shortness of breath, and severe bleeding may be indicated by unusual bruising, black stools, or coughing up blood. Additionally, low blood sodium levels can lead to confusion, seizures, or unconsciousness.

Rarely, males may experience a painful or prolonged erection lasting four or more hours, which necessitates urgent medical care to prevent permanent damage. Serious allergic reactions are uncommon but can present as rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing and should be addressed promptly by seeking medical assistance.

This summary highlights potential side effects and is not exhaustive. If you notice any other unusual symptoms, contacting a healthcare professional is recommended for further advice.

Escitalopram, commonly known as Lexapro, can interact with various medications and supplements. It is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the substances you are currently taking, whether they are prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or herbal supplements. Here’s a summary of potential interactions:

1. Bleeding Risk: Combining escitalopram with medications that cause bleeding or bruising, such as antiplatelet drugs like Clopidogrel, NSAIDs like Ibuprofen or Naproxen, and blood thinners such as Dabigatran or Warfarin, may increase the risk of bleeding. Aspirin can also elevate this risk. However, if your doctor has recommended low-dose aspirin (81-162 milligrams daily) for heart attack or stroke prevention, continue taking it unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

2. Serotonin Syndrome: There is a heightened risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially dangerous condition, if escitalopram is taken with other drugs that boost serotonin levels. These include street drugs like MDMA, St. John's wort, certain antidepressants (such as other SSRIs like Fluoxetine or paroxetine, and SNRIs like Duloxetine or Venlafaxine), and Tryptophan. The risk may be particularly high when starting or raising the dose of these medications.

3. MAO Inhibitors: Avoid using escitalopram with MAO inhibitors (e.g., isocarboxazid, phenelzine, Tranylcypromine, and others) due to the risk of a severe, possibly fatal reaction. MAO inhibitors should generally not be used for two weeks before and after escitalopram treatment. Consult your doctor about the timing of starting or stopping these medications.

4. Heart Rhythm: Escitalopram may affect heart rhythm (QT prolongation). Medications such as Amiodarone, Pimozide, procainamide, quinidine, and Sotalol can also influence heart rhythm.

5. Drowsiness: Drugs that cause drowsiness, such as alcohol, marijuana, certain antihistamines, sleep or anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, and opioids, may enhance this effect when taken with escitalopram. Check all medication labels for drowsiness-inducing ingredients or those that could increase bleeding risk, and seek advice from a pharmacist for safe use.

6. Similar Medications: Avoid using Citalopram while taking escitalopram due to their similarity.

This drug may interfere with certain medical or lab tests, such as brain scans for Parkinson's disease, potentially leading to false results. Ensure all healthcare providers and lab personnel are aware that you are using escitalopram.

Always consult your doctor about any potential interactions and for personalized advice on medication management.