MedDataToolEscitalopram 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. You take it as an oral solution once daily, starting with a dose of 10 mg, which can be increased to a maximum of 20 mg if needed. It's important to know that you should not take escitalopram if you have recently used certain medications called MAOIs, as this can lead to serious side effects. Additionally, if you are taking pimozide, you should avoid using this medication.
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Uses
- major depressive disorder in adults and patients 12 years and older. generalized anxiety disorder in adults.
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Dosage
Adults: Start with 10 mg once daily, may increase to 20 mg.
Pediatric patients 12 years and older: Start with 10 mg once daily, may 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 syndromeseizuresmaniahyponatremiaincreased bleeding risk
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in young adults.
- Not approved for use in children under 7 years old.
- Monitor for signs of bipolar disorder before starting treatment.
- Contraindicated with MAOIs and pimozide.
- Use caution with other serotonergic drugs.
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Drug interactions
- MAOIsincreased risk of serotonin syndromeMonitor
- Pimozideincreased risk of QT prolongationMonitor
- NSAIDsincreased risk of bleedingMonitor
- Lithiummay enhance serotonergic effectsCaution
- Carbamazepinemay increase clearance of escitalopramCaution
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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).