Lexapro is an antidepressant drug which is categorized as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI for short). This class of drugs help to restore the proper chemical balance in the brain by affecting the use of the neurotransmitter called serotonin. SSRI drugs produce a feeling of well being and lower anxiety and fear in the user.

With so many benefits to be gained what are the potential side effects of Lexapro and are they really bad enough that you should think twice before taking this medication that offers so much promise? If you are taking Lexapro or are a potential candidate for this drug consider the following for discussion with your health care provider.

Increased Risk of Suicide: Lexapro users have a small yet significantly higher rate of suicide than do people with depression who are not taking the drug. The drug alone is not necessarily the sole causative factor in this phenomenon, but may be a contributing factor to these higher rates of suicide. It should be noted that while the risk is low, there have been well documented cases of Lexapro users experiencing deep depression and suicidal ideation while on the drug.

Lexapro users under the age of 25 are at an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or of the act itself. However, users of Lexapro of any age who have side effects including agitation, mood swings, unexplainable hostility or anger and trouble sleeping should take these symptoms as a sign to consult with their physician. If you are taking Lexapro and have thoughts about harming yourself or others, then you need to see your physician immediately.

Physical Side Effectsof Lexapro: Physical side effects which are known to be possible in Lexapro users include: nausea, weakness, an irregular heartbeat, yawning, dry mouth, impotence, decreased sex drive, sweating and being prone to bruising and bleeding easily. Expectant mothers should never take Lexapro, especially not in the third trimester when it can cause drug dependency in the child.

Drug Interactions: There is always a risk of interactions with other prescription medications and this is true of Lexapro as well. You should avoid taking diuretics while taking Lexapro and always tell your physician about every medication you are taking when you are prescribed the drug by your physician. You should not take aspirin or weight loss medications when taking Lexapro and you must also avoid all MAO inhibitor drugs for two weeks before or after taking Lexapro.

The side effects of Lexapro can be mild and short lived or quite severe and last for the duration of the time you are taking it. Knowing what to look for can help you decide if your symptoms are side effects or might be the symptoms of something else. As always a frank and honest discussion with your physician is key when considering a new medication or deciding if the benefits of a current prescription outweigh the side effects.

If you?d rather avoid the possible side effects of Lexapro, then you may want to consider using one of the natural alternatives such as St. John?s Wort, the amino acid 5-HTP or valerian root.