Safety Information Lexapro
Warnings/PrecautionsDo not use Lexapro if:
- you are allergic to any ingredient in Lexapro or to citalopram;
- you are taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor (eg, phenelzine) in the last 14 days;
- you are taking citalopram, linezolid, pimozide, selegiline, tramadol, or any weight loss medicines (e.g., phentermine).
Important :
- Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
- Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness (eg, sedatives, tranquilizers) while taking Lexapro . Lexapro will add to the effects of alcohol and other depressants. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines are depressants.
- Antidepressants can increase suicidal thoughts and actions in some children and teenagers. This risk may be higher in individuals with bipolar illness (also called manic-depressive illness), a family history of bipolar illness, or a history of attempting suicide. Pay close attention to changes in moods or actions, especially if changes occur suddenly. Contact your doctor right away if any of the following effects occur or worsen: depression, anxiety, restlessness or irritability, panic attacks, thoughts or attempts of suicide, or other unusual changes in behavior or mood.
- Use Lexapro with caution in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its effects.
- Lexapro is not recommended for use in children. Safety and effectiveness have not been confirmed.
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you become pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Lexapro , especially during the third trimester. Lexapro is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Lexapro, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
