PsychRounds: The Psychiatry Podcast [SSRI] - Escitalopram (Lexapro)
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Dec 3, 2023 Dive into the world of Lexapro, a leading SSRI known for its effectiveness in treating depression and anxiety. Discover its minimal drug interactions and ideal dosing for different age groups, especially in geriatrics. The discussion also highlights off-label uses, particularly for OCD, shedding light on safety concerns for both older adults and children. Personal insights provide a deeper understanding of what makes escitalopram a favored choice among SSRIs.
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Lexapro and Enantiomers
- Escitalopram (Lexapro) is the S-enantiomer of citalopram.
- The 'ES' prefix often signifies an S-enantiomer, like S-ketamine.
Lexapro as a Pure SSRI
- Lexapro is a "pure" SSRI, primarily affecting serotonin, unlike others that also impact dopamine or norepinephrine.
- Dr. Wang prefers Lexapro due to minimal drug interactions and its serotonin-focused action.
Lexapro Dosing and Side Effects
- Lexapro's dosing is simple, ranging from 5-20mg, with a therapeutic range of 10-20mg.
- It has fewer gastrointestinal and sexual side effects than other SSRIs like Sertraline.