What is Escitalopram?
Escitalopram belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that regulates mood.
Brand Name: Lexapro
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Get A Second OpinionUses of Escitalopram
The uses of Escitalopram include:
- Treatment of depression
- Management of anxiety disorders
- Relief from symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Alleviation of hot flashes associated with menopause
- Improvement of mental and mood conditions
What are the Side Effects of Escitalopram?
Escitalopram can cause some side effects, leading to some serious health problems if untreated. This includes
Some of the severe side effects of Escitalopram are:
If you are facing any of the above serious side effects, consult a doctor immediately.
Precautions Before Taking Medication
- Consult your doctor if you have allergies to Escitalopram or any other medications.
- Inform your doctor about any medical history, including bipolar or depressive disorder, liver disease, seizures, intestinal ulcers, bleeding problems, or low sodium levels.
How to Take Escitalopram?
- Take Escitalopram orally once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day.
- It may take 1 to 4 weeks or longer to experience the full benefits.
- Do not stop taking Escitalopram abruptly without consulting your doctor.
Dosage
Forms: Oral tablet (5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg) or Liquid oral solution (5 mg/5mL)
Dosage for major depressive disorder: 10 to 20 mg once daily.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. Do not double dose.
Overdose
Overdose can have harmful effects on the body's functions. Seek medical help if you suspect an overdose.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
- Glaucoma: Escitalopram can dilate pupils, potentially triggering a glaucoma attack.
- Seizure disorders: Escitalopram may increase the risk of seizures.
- Heart problems: This may lead to prolonged QT interval, causing irregular heartbeat.
- Pregnancy: Discuss risks and benefits with your doctor if pregnant.
- Breastfeeding: Escitalopram is generally safe during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor.
Storage of Escitalopram
- Store Escitalopram at room temperature (68ºF to 77ºF or 20ºC to 25ºC), away from heat, light, and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Escitalopram vs Setraline
| Escitalopram | Setraline |
|---|---|
| Escitalopram is an antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors class of medicines. | Sertraline affects brain chemicals that may be out of whack in people suffering from depression, fear, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms. |
| Escitalopram is an antidepressant and anxiety medication. It functions by assisting in the restoration of a natural substance (serotonin) balance in the brain. | People use Sertraline tablets for treating depression, anxiety and various mood disorders. |
Most common side effects of Escitalopram are:
|
Some of the common side effects of Sertraline are:
|
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
Escitalopram helps restore the balance of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that affects mood. It belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which increase serotonin levels by blocking its reabsorption by neurons.
Yes, Escitalopram may interact with certain medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiarrhythmics, and tricyclic antidepressants.
There are no specific dietary restrictions, yet it is good to maintain a balanced diet as recommended by your doctor.
Escitalopram should be avoided by those allergic to it, taking MAOIs or pimozide, with recent heart conditions, on medications that interact with it, with a history of seizures, pregnant or breastfeeding, liver/kidney disease, intestinal ulcers, bleeding disorders, low sodium, bipolar disorder.
