Is Lexapro an MAO inhibitor?
Lexapro is not a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). MAOIs operate by inhibiting the breakdown of serotonin and dopamine, two chemicals found in the brain. This also aids in the relief of depressive symptoms. MAOIs, on the other hand, have a higher risk of adverse effects and medication interactions than SSRIs like Lexapro. People taking other medications, especially tricyclic antidepressants or linezolid (an antibiotic), should not take Lexapro. Lexapro has been reported to induce suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Patients who take this drug should be monitored for changes in their mood or behavior. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately: agitation, anxiety, confusion, depression, extreme sadness, feeling like a failure, thinking about suicide, tension, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostility, impulsivity. The risk of suicidal thinking and behavior with the use of SSRIs has been a concern for many years. Although the mechanisms behind this association are not clear, some researchers believe it may be related to increased levels of serotonin leading to distorted views of reality. Also, SSRIs are known to be effective at treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic attacks, conditions that tend to involve severe anxiety and stress and could therefore contribute to suicidal thinking. It's important to report suicidal thoughts or behaviors immediately so that help can be provided if needed.