Escitalopram
PrescriptionWhat is Escitalopram?
Escitalopram is a prescription medication used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These medications work by adjusting the balance of serotonin in your brain.
Doctors prescribe escitalopram to help people manage symptoms of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. The medication comes in tablet and liquid forms. You take it once daily, usually in the morning or evening.
Escitalopram is the generic version of Lexapro. It became available as a generic in 2012. Both the brand and generic versions contain the same active ingredient and work the same way.
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Common uses
- Major depressive disorder in adults and adolescents age 12 and older
- Generalized anxiety disorder in adults
- Panic disorder, although not officially approved by the FDA for this use
- Social anxiety disorder as an off-label treatment
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder in some cases
How it works
Escitalopram works by increasing the amount of serotonin available in your brain. Serotonin is a chemical messenger that helps regulate mood, sleep, and anxiety. When you have depression or anxiety, serotonin levels may be lower than they should be.
The medication blocks the reabsorption of serotonin in your brain cells. This means more serotonin stays active in the spaces between nerve cells. Over time, this helps improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms. Most people start noticing improvements within 2 to 4 weeks, but full benefits may take 6 to 8 weeks.
Taking Escitalopram? Monitor your levels.
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Dosage information
The typical starting dose for adults is 10 mg once daily. Your doctor may increase this to 20 mg daily after at least one week if needed. For adolescents age 12 to 17, the starting and maximum dose is usually 10 mg daily. Older adults often start at 10 mg and may stay at that dose. Your doctor will determine the right dose for your specific situation based on your symptoms and response to treatment.
Side effects
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Trouble sleeping or feeling drowsy
- Increased sweating
- Dry mouth
- Decreased sex drive or difficulty with sexual function
- Fatigue or feeling tired
- Weight changes
- Dizziness
Serious side effects can include serotonin syndrome, a rare but dangerous condition with symptoms like confusion, fast heartbeat, and high fever. Some people may experience unusual bleeding or bruising. Call your doctor right away if you have thoughts of suicide, especially when first starting the medication or changing doses. Sudden stopping can cause withdrawal symptoms, so always work with your doctor to taper off slowly.
Drug interactions
- MAO inhibitors like phenelzine or tranylcypromine can cause dangerous reactions and should not be taken within 14 days of escitalopram
- Other antidepressants or medications that increase serotonin, including some pain medications and migraine drugs
- Blood thinners like warfarin may increase bleeding risk
- NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin can increase bleeding risk
- Certain heart rhythm medications
- Seizure medications may interact with escitalopram
- St. John's Wort and other supplements that affect serotonin
- Alcohol can increase drowsiness and should be limited
Blood test monitoring
Your doctor may recommend blood tests to monitor sodium levels while taking escitalopram. This medication can sometimes cause low sodium, especially in older adults or people taking diuretics. Liver enzyme tests may also be checked periodically to make sure the medication is not affecting your liver function. These blood tests help catch potential problems early and ensure the medication is working safely for you. Rite Aid offers blood testing services that measure over 200 biomarkers, including sodium and liver enzymes.
Related blood tests
Taking Escitalopram? Monitor your levels.
- Track how your body responds
- Catch side effects early with blood work
- Share results with your doctor
Frequently asked questions
Most people start noticing some improvement in their symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks of starting escitalopram. However, it can take 6 to 8 weeks to feel the full benefits of the medication. Be patient and keep taking it as prescribed, even if you don't feel better right away. Talk to your doctor if you don't notice any improvement after 8 weeks.
No, escitalopram is a prescription medication only. You need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to purchase it. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and medical history before deciding if escitalopram is right for you. Once you have a prescription, you can fill it at Rite Aid Pharmacy.
Your doctor may order blood tests to check your sodium levels and liver enzymes while taking escitalopram. Low sodium is a possible side effect, especially in older adults. Liver function tests help ensure the medication is not causing liver problems. Regular monitoring helps catch issues early and keeps you safe.
No, you should never stop escitalopram suddenly without talking to your doctor first. Stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, irritability, headache, and nausea. Your doctor will help you taper off the medication slowly if you need to stop. This gradual reduction helps minimize withdrawal effects.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. If it's close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. Set a daily reminder on your phone to help you remember.
Weight changes can happen with escitalopram, but they vary from person to person. Some people gain weight while others lose weight or stay the same. On average, weight changes are usually modest, around 1 to 5 pounds. If you're concerned about weight changes, talk to your doctor about diet and exercise strategies.
It's best to avoid or limit alcohol while taking escitalopram. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and other side effects of the medication. It can also worsen depression and anxiety symptoms. If you do choose to drink, keep it to small amounts and pay attention to how you feel.
Sexual side effects are common with escitalopram and other SSRIs. These can include decreased sex drive, difficulty reaching orgasm, or erectile problems in men. Between 30% and 60% of people taking SSRIs experience some sexual side effects. Talk to your doctor if this becomes a problem, as there are strategies to help manage these effects.
Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Escitalopram can pass to a baby during pregnancy or through breast milk. Your doctor will weigh the benefits of treating your depression or anxiety against potential risks to the baby. In many cases, untreated mental health conditions pose their own risks during pregnancy.
Sometimes doctors prescribe escitalopram with other medications for depression, but this requires careful monitoring. Combining certain antidepressants can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a serious condition. Never combine escitalopram with MAO inhibitors, as this can be dangerous. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take.