The mechanism of antidepressant action of escitalopram, the S-enantiomer of racemic citalopram, is presumed to be linked to potentiation of serotonergic activity in the central nervous system resulting from its inhibition of CNS neuronal reuptake of serotonin (5-HT). In vitro and in vivo studies in animals suggest that escitalopram is a highly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) with minimal effects on norepinephrine and dopamine neuronal reuptake. Escitalopram is at least 100 fold more potent than the R-enantiomer with respect to inhibition of 5-HT reuptake and inhibition of 5-HT neuronal firing rate. Tolerance to a model of antidepressant effect in rats was not induced by long-term (up to 5 weeks) treatment with escitalopram. Escitalopram has no or very low affinity for serotonergic (5-HT1-7) or other receptors including alpha- and beta-adrenergic, dopamine (D1-5), histamine (H1-3), muscarinic (M1-5), and benzodiazepine receptors. Escitalopram also does not bind to or has low affinity for various ion channels including Na+, K+, Cl- and Ca++ channels. Antagonism of muscarinic, histaminergic and adrenergic receptors has been hypothesized to be associated with various anticholinergic, sedative and cardiovascular side effects of other psychotropic drugs.
Lexapro Dose / Supply
LEXAPRO is available in two doses. LEXAPRO comes as a 10mg tablet, and 20mg tablet
How to Take Lexapro
LEXAPRO is easy to take. It should be taken once a day with a full glass (8 ounces) of water, at any time of day, with or without food. For best results, LEXAPRO should be taken every day-and prescriptions should be filled ahead oftime to avoid missing a dose.
LEXAPRO can be taken with most other medications. An exception is another family of antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs),* such as Nardil® (phenelzine sulfate tablets, USP)? and Parnate® (tranylcypromine sulfate).? LEXAPRO and MAOIs should not be taken together or within 14 days of each other. Before taking LEXAPRO, it is important for patients to tell their healthcare professional or doctor if they are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, diet supplements, etc.
