1. Lexapro
By: Gina Caprara

2. What is it?
Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the acute and maintenance treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and adolescents aged years and for the acute treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults.

3. How it works
Chemical messengers facilitate communication between nerve cells in the brain and are involved in regulating many aspects of behavior and mood.
These chemicals are called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitter imbalances play an important role in the development of depression and anxiety. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has been clearly linked with most, if not all, forms of depression. SSRIs are believed to work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, thus increasing available serotonin.

4. Side Effects
Drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia, nausea, heartburn, weight changes, dry mouth, decreased sex drive
Call doctor if you seek these side effects: - Very stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, overactive reflexes
- Headache, trouble concentrating, memory problems, weakness, confusion, hallucinations, fainting, seizure, shallow breathing or breathing that stops.

5. Tablets/Usage
Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) tablets are film-coated, round tablets containing escitalopram oxalate in strengths equivalent to 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg escitalopram base
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning or evening. Take it at the same time each day
To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start taking this drug at a low dose and gradually increase your dose.

6. Cost 20 MG – (30 pills) = $74 (60 pills) = $125