{"id":6115,"date":"2022-11-16T10:32:39","date_gmt":"2022-11-16T18:32:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/?p=6115"},"modified":"2023-12-20T11:53:09","modified_gmt":"2023-12-20T19:53:09","slug":"lexapro-paxil","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/post\/lexapro-paxil\/","title":{"rendered":"Lexapro vs. Paxil\u2014What Is the Difference and Which One Should I Take?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

For some with anxiety and depression, medication may be the best way to a happier and healthier life\u2014but with all of the medications available, it can be difficult to know which one is best for you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro and Paxil are two options for treating major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. They\u2019re both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and work similarly to treat certain mental health conditions. However, individuals may react differently to these medications, even though they\u2019re in the same drug class. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before starting medication, it is essential to understand the possible benefits and side effects it can have\u2014that\u2019s why we\u2019ve provided the comparison guide below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are experiencing symptoms of depression<\/a> or anxiety<\/a>, a certified and licensed medical professional on Klarity can discuss your options with you. Schedule an appointment<\/a> today and learn which medication, if any, works best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article discusses suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline immediately at 800-273-8255.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is Lexapro?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro is a common SSRI medication for treating anxiety and depression. It works like other SSRIs by slowing down the brain\u2019s reabsorption of serotonin. Without consistent serotonin levels, the brain cannot send as many messages, causing symptoms of depression and anxiety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

By slowing this neurotransmitter, Lexapro allows the brain to pass more messages between nerve cells, increasing a person\u2019s mood and good feelings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro Forms and Doses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro is most commonly prescribed in tablet form but is also available as an oral solution. Typically, patients take 10 mg of Lexapro a day, but the dosage can come in 5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg. A higher dosage can be used to treat more severe symptoms, but also when a person has minimal reaction to a lower dose. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you speak to a medical professional about Lexapro, they will determine if this is the best treatment for you and determine the right dosage. The healthcare providers on Klarity are experienced in prescribing Lexapro to treat anxiety and depression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conditions Lexapro Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro is labeled and marketed as an antidepressant. It treats various forms of depression, including major depression disorder (MDD). However, it can also extend to treating anxiety. Given that individuals often suffer from forms of both, Lexapro can be a great choice of treatment. Overall, Lexapro can improve energy and feelings of well-being and decrease nervousness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of Anxiety Lexapro Can Treat<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro can treat persistent nervousness by increasing a patient\u2019s feelings of safety and contentedness. Doing this can also contribute to a relaxed demeanor, fewer panic attacks, and more stability in thinking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of Depression Lexapro Can Treat<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro can be effective for treating a variety of depression symptoms because it improves the patient\u2019s overall feeling of well-being. Increasing your brain’s serotonin can prevent depression symptoms from returning. Lexapro can stabilize and improve mood. However, it is important to continue taking it unless otherwise instructed by a healthcare provider. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Off-Label Uses for Lexapro<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro has off-label benefits for other conditions also caused by serotonin deficiency. These include OCD, eating disorders, panic disorder, PTSD, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). However, it is advised to speak with a healthcare provider about Lexapro as a treatment for these conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro is the name brand of the generic drug escitalopram and tends to be more expensive. The cost of Lexapro varies depending on which brand you are prescribed and your health insurance status. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Generic escitalopram can vary in price, from as little as $13 to as much as $129 for thirty 10 mg tablets. Name-brand Lexapro can cost much more than the generic, even as high as $534 for the amount and dosage mentioned above. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the price you would pay for Lexapro will depend on your insurance coverage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lexapro Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Before taking Lexapro, you should be familiar with the possible side effects of the medication. You should speak to your healthcare provider if the side effects persist or worsen over time. However, most side effects of Lexapro are expected to reduce in severity as you continue to take it. The most common side effects include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Excessive sweating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Insomnia and tiredness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Dry mouth<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Dizziness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Diarrhea<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Lexapro Warnings for Use<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Supervision from your healthcare provider is always advised when taking Lexapro to avoid developing serious health conditions. However, some possibly dangerous side effects are more unpredictable, so patients and those around them should keep a close eye on the effects of Lexapro. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Some of the most serious issues are described below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    • Suicidal thoughts and behavior can occur, especially at the beginning of taking Lexapro, and it can feel like the depression is worsening. If this happens, you should immediately speak with your healthcare provider and call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Serotonin syndrome is a rare condition that can be life-threatening. It occurs when the brain contains too much serotonin causing increased heart rate, sweating, fever, muscle stiffness and spasms, and confusion. The most common cause is taking two antidepressants at one time, and medical care should be sought immediately if any symptoms occur.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • When symptoms of depression and anxiety decrease, it can seem like the medication is no longer necessary. However, stopping Lexapro suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms like nausea, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and flu-like symptoms. Always speak to your medical provider if you would like to stop taking Lexapro. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      Lexapro Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      It is important to understand the ways that other drugs can interact with Lexapro while you are taking it. Taking certain medications alongside Lexapro can cause health issues as well as reduce the effectiveness of Lexapro and the additional medication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      If you are already taking a medication that does not interact well with Lexapro, your healthcare provider may prescribe a different antidepressant or suggest switching your other medications. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Below is a list of common medications that do not interact well with Lexapro. However, you should have a comprehensive discussion of your medicines with a healthcare provider before taking Lexapro. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      • Bepridil<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Cisapride<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Fluconazole<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Methylene Blue<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Pimozide<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Rasagiline<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Selegiline<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Thioridazine<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Ziprasidone<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\t\t
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