What Cold Medicine Can I Take With Lexapro?
Lexapro is a brand name for the medication escitalopram, which is used to treat depression and anxiety. It is an antidepressant that belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which has been shown to improve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
When you have a cold, you may be tempted to take over-the-counter (OTC) cold medicines to relieve your symptoms. However, some OTC cold medicines can interact with Lexapro and cause side effects, such as increased drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Therefore, it is important to know which OTC cold medicines are safe to take with Lexapro.
What to Look for in a Cold Medicine
When choosing a cold medicine to take with Lexapro, it is important to look for a product that does not contain the following ingredients:
- Alcohol
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Cough suppressants
- Expectorants
These ingredients can all interact with Lexapro and cause side effects. Therefore, it is important to avoid taking cold medicines that contain these ingredients.
Safe Cold Medicines to Take With Lexapro
There are a number of OTC cold medicines that are safe to take with Lexapro. These include:
- Guaifenesin
- Phenylephrine
- Pseudoephedrine
Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up. Phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are decongestants that help to relieve nasal congestion.
Tips for Taking Cold Medicine With Lexapro
If you are taking Lexapro and need to take a cold medicine, follow these tips:
- Choose a cold medicine that does not contain alcohol, antihistamines, decongestants, cough suppressants, or expectorants.
- Start with a low dose of the cold medicine and gradually increase the dose as needed.
- Avoid taking cold medicine for more than 7 days.
- If you experience any side effects from the cold medicine, stop taking it and talk to your doctor.
FAQ
Q: Can I take cold medicine with Lexapro?
A: Yes, you can take cold medicine with Lexapro, but it is important to choose a product that does not contain alcohol, antihistamines, decongestants, cough suppressants, or expectorants.
Q: What are some safe cold medicines to take with Lexapro?
A: Some safe cold medicines to take with Lexapro include guaifenesin, phenylephrine, and pseudoephedrine.
Q: How long can I take cold medicine with Lexapro?
A: You should not take cold medicine for more than 7 days.
Q: What are the side effects of taking cold medicine with Lexapro?
A: The side effects of taking cold medicine with Lexapro can include increased drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
Conclusion
If you have a cold and are taking Lexapro, it is important to choose a cold medicine that is safe to take with your medication. There are a number of OTC cold medicines that are safe to take with Lexapro, including guaifenesin, phenylephrine, and pseudoephedrine. Follow the tips above to safely take cold medicine with Lexapro and relieve your cold symptoms.
Are you interested in learning more about taking cold medicine with Lexapro? Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
