MedDataToolEscitalopram
Generic: Escitalopram Oral
SSRIAlso: Escitalopram Oral Solution✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗Escitalopram is a medication used to treat major depressive disorder in adults and children aged 12 and older, as well as generalized anxiety disorder in adults. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that helps improve mood and reduce anxiety. You take it as a tablet or liquid, starting with a dose of 10 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum of 20 mg once daily if needed. It's important to know that you should not take escitalopram if you are currently using or have recently stopped taking certain antidepressants called MAOIs, as this can lead to serious side effects. Additionally, be cautious if you are taking pimozide, as this combination is contraindicated.
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Uses
- major depressive disorder in adults. major depressive disorder in pediatric patients 12 years and older. generalized anxiety disorder in adults.
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Dosage
Adults: Start with 10 mg once daily, can increase to 20 mg.
Pediatric patients 12 years and older: Start with 10 mg once daily, can increase to 20 mg.
Elderly patients: Recommended dosage is 10 mg once daily.
Patients with liver impairment: Recommended dosage is 10 mg once daily.
Take once daily, morning or evening, with or without food.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
insomniaejaculation disordernauseaincreased sweatingfatiguedecreased libido
Serious
suicidal thoughtsserotonin syndromeseizuresmania activationhyponatremiableeding risk
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults and children.
- Not approved for children under 7 years old.
- Contraindicated with MAOIs and pimozide.
- Monitor for serotonin syndrome with other serotonergic drugs.
- Increased bleeding risk with NSAIDs and anticoagulants.
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Drug interactions
- MAOIsrisk of serotonin syndromeCaution
- Pimozideincreased risk of heart issuesMonitor
- NSAIDsincreased bleeding riskCaution
- Sumatriptanpossible coordination issuesCaution
- Carbamazepinemay increase escitalopram clearanceCaution
- Drugs metabolized by CYP2D6increased levels of those drugsCaution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).