On this page, Beliefnet is publishing articles provided by Forest Pharmaceuticals, the makers of Lexapro. Forest Pharmaceuticals is solely responsible for this content.
If you have been prescribed LEXAPRO®; (escitalopram oxalate) or have already started on treatment, you have taken a significant first step toward relieving your depression and/or anxiety. Aside from taking your medicine daily, there are additional steps you can take to feel better as you move forward with your treatment:
Avoid making major life decisions until your treatment with Lexapro takes effect1.
Avoid alcohol while taking Lexapro.
Consult with your healthcare professional about other prescription and nonprescription drugs you may be taking (herbal remedies, nutritional supplements, diet preparations, NSAIDs) during your LEXAPRO therapy.
Try to exercise. Even mild exercise like walking 30 minutes a day may have a positive effect on depression. If you miss a day, don't get down on yourself. Simply do it the next day.
Try to get out of the house and be around people, even if you're not feeling up to it. Your illness makes you feel withdrawn, but don't let it govern your behavior. Go to a movie, go to the mall, or call a friend. It won't be long before you feel ready to reengage in your life.
Follow through on your treatment. You will not benefit by taking LEXAPRO or attending therapy if you do either on a hit-or-miss basis. Continue to take LEXAPRO as prescribed by your healthcare professional, and do not stop taking LEXAPRO until you have spoken to your healthcare professional.
Keep follow-up appointments with your healthcare professional. He or she needs to know how your treatment is going, if you're feeling better, and if you're experiencing any side effects. Keep a journal and take it with you to your appointment.
Take advantage of resources available in your community and online—support groups, chat rooms, and educational materials. If you have any questions about therapy with LEXAPRO, take a look at the LEXAPRO FAQs.
References: 1. Burke WJ, Gergel I, Bose A. Fixed-dosed trial of the single isomer SSRI escitalopram in depressed outpatients. J Clin Psychiatry. 2002;63:331-336. 2. Data on file, Forest Laboratories, Inc.
