Lexapro is an antidepressant classified in the group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It acts on the chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and lead to depression or anxiety. Lexapro is prescribed as a treatment for anxiety and major depressive disorder. It is not advisable to combine Lexapro with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate). Stop taking the MAOI and wait at least fourteen days before starting to take Lexapro. Likewise, to start taking an MAOI, you must have stopped taking Lexapro at least fourteen days earlier.