Lexapro

The proper way to use

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor to help your condition as much as possible. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

Escitalopram may be taken with or without food on a full or empty stomach. If your doctor tells you to take it at a specific time, follow your doctor's instructions.

If you are using the oral liquid form of escitalopram, shake the bottle well before measuring each dose. Use a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup to measure each dose.

You may have to take escitalopram for 1 to 4 weeks before you begin to feel better.

Do not stop taking this medication without checking first with your doctor. Your doctor may want you to gradually reduce the amount you are taking before stopping it completely to prevent side effects.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For oral dosage form (oral solution and tablets):
  • For depression:
    • Adults—At first, 10 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken either in the morning or evening. Your doctor may increase your dose gradually if needed. However, the dose usually is not more than 20 mg a day.
    • Older adults and patients with liver problems—Usually 10 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken either in the morning or evening.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For anxiety:
    • Adults—At first, 10 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken either in the morning or evening. Your doctor may increase your dose gradually if needed. However, the dose usually is not more than 20 mg a day.
    • Older adults and patients with liver problems—Usually 10 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken either in the morning or evening.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.