People who frequently encounter depression and anxiety are likely to seek refuge in reliable antidepressants. Due to the quick relief they bring to patients, many people tend to abuse them, depending too much on them. One of the best antidepressant medications on the market is Lexapro.
Despite its tremendous benefits, this drug is closely associated with mild side effects that would make you question your decision. You are likely to experience suicidal thoughts and behaviors if you take more than the prescribed dose. The intake of Lexapro has to be monitored, or else you might become addicted to it and suffer from serotonin syndrome.
Here are the severe Lexapro side effects and everything you need to know:
A Comprehensive Guide on the Lexapro Side Effects
1. Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors
Like any other antidepressant, Lexapro can increase the risk of having suicidal thoughts and characteristics, especially in adults under 25 years, adolescents, and children. Such risk is determined during the initial treatment months or when there is an adjustment in the dosage.
Such patients require close monitoring for any worsening of depression or unusual changes in behavior. Caregivers and family members must be vigilant to notice the emergency of suicidal thoughts from the conversations they have with patients.
2. Serotonin Syndrome Lexapro Side Effects
Serotonin syndrome is a life-threatening condition facilitated by the production of excess serotonin in your central nervous system. This problem occurs when you take Lexapro with other drugs that increase the level of serotonin.
The Lexapro side effects here include rapid heart rate, hallucinations, agitation, confusion, and high fever. When you experience gastrointestinal complications like nausea and vomiting, it could be a sign of serotonin syndrome caused by Lexapro. If you suspect you are experiencing such a syndrome, you must seek immediate medical attention from your doctor.
3. Severe Allergic Reactions
When you take drugs with different components, you are likely to have an allergic reaction. This occurs when you take medications with components that have adverse reactions in the body. However, in sporadic cases, you are likely to experience severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Most Lexapro side effects are medical emergencies because of the severe symptoms linked with this drug. Some symptoms of anaphylaxis include rash, swelling, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing. When you see any of these symptoms after taking Lexapro, you must seek medical help before things go sour.
Precautions and Monitoring
When you go for medication for anxiety and depression disorders, you must inform your healthcare provider about your medical history. This includes any history of bipolar disorder, heart problems, and bleeding disorder to customize a personalized treatment plan.
You should also give your doctor a list of all the drugs you are using currently to avoid potential interactions that could lead to severe side effects. Regularly do follow-ups with your provider to monitor your response to Lexapro and make necessary adjustments if there are traces of adverse effects.
Conclusion
The Lexapro side effects are closely related to frequent use. These drugs are effective in dealing with anxiety and depression disorders, and people tend to abuse them. The most common side effects of using Lexapro include suicidal thoughts, serotonin syndrome, and severe allergic reactions.