Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia

Escitalopram - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Advertisement

Information about Escitalopram

Generic Name : Escitalopram
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Escitalopram are provided here.

Pronunciation : es sye tal' oh pram

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Escitalopram, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y49.2 Therapeutic Classification : Psychotherapeutics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Escitalopram

India :

International :


Lexapro

Why is Escitalopram Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class, prescribed for major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, or panic disorder(significant behavioral change). It increases the amount of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance.

When should Escitalopram not be taken? (Contraindications)

Concomitant use with or within 2 weeks of MAOI (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors) withdrawal along with pimozide, hypersensitivity to escitalopram or citalopram.

What is the dosage of Escitalopram?

Oral- DepressionObsessive compulsive disorder(persistent obsessions or compulsions), AnxietyPanic disorder(significant behavioral change)- Adult: 10 mg once daily, increased if necessary. Max: 20 mg daily. Elderly: Half the adult dose. Liver impairment: Dosage adjustments may be required.

How should Escitalopram be taken?

It comes as a tablet and a solution (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Escitalopram?

•Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medication.

• It may increase risk of suicidal thoughts or action in children, teenagers, and young adults. So closely watch patients who are taking this medication.

• Escitalopram and a medicine called citalopram have the same active ingredient. Do not take Escitalopram if you are also taking citalopram.

• Use this medication with caution in elderly; children, pregnancy and breast feeding patients.

• Patient may develop with increased risk of Serotonin Syndrome with the following symptoms: restlessness, diarrhea, fast heart beat, incoordination, nausea, vomiting. If it is so consult with your healthcare provider.

What are the side effects of Escitalopram?

Gastrointestinal- Nausea, diarrhea, increased appetite, taste disturbances.
Central Nervous System- Sleeplessness, fatigue, drowsiness, unusual excitement, confusion.
Heart- Fast or irregular heartbeat, postural hypotension.
Genitourinary- Impotence, ejaculation disorder.
Eye and ENT- Inflammation of the Para nasal sinuses, seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist (hallucinating).
Miscellaneous- Increased sweating, weight gain, fever, and severe muscle stiffness.

What are the other precautions for Escitalopram?

Do not stop the medication suddenly; withdraw gradually.

What are the storage conditions for Escitalopram?

Oral: Store at 25°C. Store it in air tight container and keep away from children.
Advertisement
Recommended Reading