Learn about escitalopram (Lexapro) usage and dosing. Read the latest news and reviews about the drug as well as potential side effects and popular alternatives. Lexapro is used to treat anxiety and major depressive disorder. Learn about side effects, interactions and indications. Find patient medical information for Escitalopram (Lexapro) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings 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 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. Escitalopram, sold under the brand names Lexapro and Cipralex, among others, is an antidepressant medication of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. [8] It is mainly used to treat major depressive disorder, [8] generalized anxiety disorder, [8] panic disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), and social anxiety disorder. Lexapro is indicated for the acute treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in adults [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (DSM-IV) is characterized by excessive anxiety and worry (apprehensive expectation) that is persistent for at least 6 months and which the person finds difficult to control. Learn about the side effects of Lexapro (escitalopram), from common to rare, for consumers and healthcare professionals. Lexapro is the brand name of the medication escitalopram. It treats depression and anxiety by increasing the amount of serotonin in your brain. Learn about side effects, dosage, uses, and more for Lexapro (escitalopram). It’s a prescription drug used to treat anxiety and depression in some people.