Lexapro Dosage: Tailored Treatment for Anxiety and Depression
Escitalopram, marketed as Lexapro, is a widely-used generic drug for treating anxiety and depression. It's a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), approved for adults and children aged 12 and over. The starting dosage is typically 10 mg once daily, but it may vary based on age, medical history, and side effects.
Escitalopram's dosage can be adjusted over time, up to a maximum of 20 mg once daily, under medical supervision. For children with depression, the starting dosage is also 10 mg once daily. It's important to note that escitalopram is not approved for use in children under 7 years of age.
The drug carries a boxed warning about the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults. Therefore, patients should be closely monitored for new or increased suicidal thoughts or worsening symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Escitalopram is a versatile treatment for anxiety and depression, with dosages tailored to individual needs. However, its use requires careful monitoring, especially in younger patients, due to potential suicidal risks.
