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Depression, even in its most severe form, is highly treatable. As with many illnesses, getting depression treatment early is more effective and reduces the chance of recurrence.
The most common forms of treatment for depression are medication (antidepressants) and psychotherapy ("talk therapy"). In some cases of severe depression, healthcare providers may recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Some people may also try complementary or alternative treatments for depression (see Natural Remedies for Depression).
For most people, Lexapro is quite effective at treating depression. It is also generally well tolerated. However, side effects may occur or the medicine may not work as well as needed. In these cases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative medication. Some examples of substitute depression medications include:
- Other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
(Click Lexapro Alternatives to learn more. Click Dealing With Depression to learn other ways of managing depression.)
People who take too much Lexapro may have overdose signs and symptoms that could include:
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- Kidney failure (renal failure)
- Seizures
- Coma
- Loss of life.
If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
(Click Lexapro Overdose for more information.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD