Lexapro ODT (Escitalopram)

Do’s

• Take Lexapro ODT exactly as prescribed by your doctor, typically once daily.
• You can take it with or without food.
• If taking it with food, ensure the food dissolves completely in your mouth before swallowing.
• Place the Lexapro ODT tablet on your tongue and allow it to disintegrate. Then, swallow with or without saliva.

Don'ts

• Do not swallow the Lexapro ODT whole. It's designed to dissolve in your mouth.
• Do not cut, crush, or chew the tablet before placing it on your tongue.
• Do not store Lexapro ODT in a pill box or container with other medications. Keep it in its original blister pack until ready to use.
• Do not use Lexapro ODT if it is past its expiration date.

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Sexual side effects
• Insomnia
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Increased sweating
• Fatigue
• Indigestion

Serious side effects may include:

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Abnormal bleeding
• Serotonin syndrome (hallucinations, confusion, rigid muscles)
• Allergic reactions
• Changes in heart rate or rhythm
• Low sodium levels in the blood (hyponatremia)
• Seizures
• Eye pain, swelling, or redness
• Vision changes (such as seeing rainbows around lights at night, blurred vision)
• Fainting
• Black stools
• Vomiting that looks like coffee grounds

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking lexapro ODT, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Do not take Lexapro ODT if you are allergic to escitalopram or any of the inactive ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions before starting Lexapro ODT. This includes:

• Bipolar disorder
• Bleeding problems
• Glaucoma (angle-closure)
• Low sodium in the blood (hyponatremia)
• Severe kidney disease
• History of mania or hypomania
• Seizures

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Lexapro ODT can interact with certain medications.

Lexapro ODT should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Lexapro ODT can pass into breast milk. Consult with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Lexapro ODT may cause side effects, such as nausea, dry mouth, trouble sleeping, constipation, tiredness, dizziness, and increased sweating.

Be mindful of increased risk of bleeding when taking Lexapro ODT with NSAIDs, aspirin, or other blood-thinning medications.

Advise your healthcare provider if you experience suicidal thoughts or worsening of depression while taking Lexapro ODT.

Do not abruptly stop taking Lexapro ODT. Your healthcare provider will advise on a gradual reduction in dosage to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

Lexapro ODT may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you.

Alcohol and marijuana (cannabis) can worsen dizziness or drowsiness caused by Lexapro ODT. It's best to avoid them while taking this medication.