Lexapro (escitalopram) is a type of antidepressant medication known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or SSRI. That means it works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, making more of that neurotransmitter available in the brain. Escitalopram, also known by its brand name, Lexapro, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's a first-choice antidepressant to treat depression and anxiety in adults and children. Lexapro is the brand name of the medication escitalopram. It treats depression and anxiety by increasing the amount of serotonin in your brain. Find patient medical information for Escitalopram (Lexapro) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Medscape - Depression-specific dosing for Lexapro (escitalopram), frequency-based adverse effects, comprehensive interactions, contraindications, pregnancy & lactation schedules, and cost. Lexapro (escitalopram) is an antidepressant from the group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and is used to treat certain types of depression and anxiety. Escitalopram (Lexapro) treats anxiety in adults and depression in adults and some children. Dosages may vary based on your age and other factors, including your medical history and whether you. Escitalopram, sold under the brand names Lexapro and Cipralex, among others, is an antidepressant medication of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. [8] Description Escitalopram is used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is an antidepressant that belongs to a group of medicines known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medicines work by increasing the activity of the chemical serotonin in the brain. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. Lexapro is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Learn about side effects, drug interactions, warnings, precautions, overdose, and others.