At some point, we all make mistakes. Accidentally taking a double dose of medication is one of them. If you take Lexapro for anxiety or depression, this mistake can be particularly concerning. You may wonder what will happen, whether it’s safe, and how to proceed. In this article, we’ll discuss what you should know if you accidentally took a double dose of Lexapro.
What is Lexapro?
Lexapro is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is commonly prescribed to treat depression and anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain that regulates mood, in the brain.
What Happens if You Accidentally Take a Double Dose of Lexapro?
If you accidentally take a double dose of Lexapro, you may experience more severe side effects than usual. The most common side effects of Lexapro include nausea, dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty sleeping. Taking a double dose of Lexapro can intensify these side effects and increase the risk of other adverse effects, such as tremors, sweating, and palpitations.
What Should You Do If You Accidentally Took a Double Dose of Lexapro?
If you accidentally took a double dose of Lexapro, you should first stay calm. Most people who take a double dose of Lexapro will not experience any severe harm. However, being aware of the symptoms and monitoring your condition closely is essential. If you experience any severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
To minimize the risk of adverse effects, try to stay hydrated and avoid any activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. You may also want to consider skipping your next scheduled dose of Lexapro to allow your body to recover.
Can You Overdose on Lexapro?
While it’s unlikely that taking a double dose of Lexapro will result in an overdose, it’s still important to be aware of the risks. Overdosing on Lexapro can cause serious harm, including seizures, coma, and even death. If you suspect that you or someone you know has overdosed on Lexapro, seek medical attention immediately.
Preventing Accidental Double Dosing of Lexapro
The best way to prevent accidentally taking a double dose of Lexapro is to establish a routine for taking your medication. Try to take it simultaneously every day, and use a pillbox or set the alarm to remind you. If you miss a dose, try not to catch up by taking two doses simultaneously. Instead, take your following scheduled amount as soon as possible.
Communicating regularly with your healthcare provider about your medication regimen is also essential. They can help you establish a dosing schedule that works best for you and guide you on what to do if you accidentally take too much medication.
Risks Associated with Accidental Overdose
An accidental overdose of Lexapro can increase the risk of developing severe side effects, including seizures, coma, and even death. Therefore, seeking immediate medical attention is essential if you suspect that you have accidentally taken two Lexapro pills.
Conclusion
Accidentally taking a double dose of Lexapro can be concerning, but it’s usually not a cause for alarm. Most people who experience this mistake will not experience serious harm.
However, being aware of the symptoms and monitoring your condition closely is essential. If you experience any severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. To prevent accidental double dosing, establish a routine for taking your medication and communicate regularly with your healthcare provider.