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Escitalopram

Definition, side effects & dosage

What is Escitalopram?

Also known as (Brand Names): Cipralex and Lexapro

Escitalopram belongs to a class of drugs referred to as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Also called an antidepressant, Escitalopram works by increasing the activity of serotonin, the chemical that regulates your mood, in the brain.

It is commonly used to treat several mental health disorders in adults including, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, fibromyalgia, irritable bowl syndrome (IBS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder, trichotillomania, and vulvodynia. Adults and children over 12 years can also be prescribed Escitalopram for major depressive disorder (MDD).

Escitalopram Side Effects & Risks

As with most medications, there are side effects and risks associated with taking escitalopram. This is not a complete list. If you experience any other symptoms, contact your doctor.

Uncommon side effects

The following side effects are more uncommon:

  • Allergic reactions characterized by rash, hives, itching, red skin, trouble breathing, wheezing, shortness of breath, blisters, mouth sores, eye pain, or swelling of the lips, face, face, tongue, or throat.
  • Hypoglycemia characterized by dizziness, drowsiness, lack of energy, headache, trembling, and sweating.
  • Hyperglycemia characterized by increased thirst, frequent urination, weakness, confusion, and a fruity odor to the breath.
  • Bleeding problems characterized by prolonged bruising or bleeding.
  • Hallucinations characterized by strange visions or sounds.
  • Mania characterized by excessive physical activity, overactive or reckless behavior, trouble sleeping, increased energy, racing thoughts, excessive happiness, irritability, and speaking more or faster than is common.
  • Uncontrollable movements of the face or body.
  • Inability to urinate.

Rare side effects

The following side effects are rarely experienced by patients taking escitalopram:

  • Serotonin toxicity and neuroleptic malignant syndrome characterized by confusion, restlessness, sweating, shaking, shivering, high fever, hallucinations, muscle stiffness, muscle spasms, agitation, irritability, fast heartbeat, and loss of consciousness.
  • Low sodium levels in the blood characterized by fatigue, weakness, confusion, and achy, stiff, or uncoordinated muscles.
  • Angle-closure glaucoma characterized by eye pain, vision changes, or swelling or redness around the eyes.

Very rare side effects

In very rare cases, people taking escitalopram can experience the following side effects:

  • Seizures characterized by uncontrollable shaking and a loss of consciousness.
  • Liver disorders characterized by loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, itching, jaundice, and dark urine.
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding characterized by blood in vomit or stools.
  • New or worsened emotional or behavioral problems characterized by anxiety, hostility, or impulsivity.
  • Akathisia characterized by restlessness.
  • Self-harm or suicidal ideation.

Other side effects

It is unknown how commonly the following side effects occur for patients taking escitalopram:

  • Irregular heart rhythm characterized by dizziness, palpitations, and fainting.
  • Postpartum hemorrhage characterized by excessive vaginal bleeding after childbirth.

After discontinuation or dose reduction

Some side effects can be experienced by patients after discontinuing or reducing their dosage of escitalopram. These may include dizziness, abnormal dreams, electric shock sensations, headache, migraine, tremor, agitation, anxiety, emotional indifference, nausea, vomiting, and sweating.

Escitalopram Dosage & Available Forms

Escitalopram is available as a tablet and a chewable tablet in 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, and 20mg dosages. Patients should take the medication at the same time each day, with or without food. It may take up to four weeks before symptoms improve.

The typical dosage used varies widely depending on what it is being used to treat as well as the age and weight of the patient. But a typical adult dose ranges from 8-32 mg daily while the recommended dosage for children (ages 6 to 17) is 4-8 mg daily. Children who weigh more than 50 kg can take up to 16mg daily. Make sure to follow your doctor's orders or the instructions on the label.

Typical dosage is 10mg daily, but patients should always follow their doctors' orders and/or the directions on the label.

Do not take two doses at one time. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.

Signs of an overdose include dizziness, tremor, agitation, sweating, drowsiness, coma, nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, and seizure. If you overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Do Not Take

Patients should avoid taking escitalopram if any of the following statements are true.

Allergic reactions

Do not take escitalopram if you are allergic to escitalopram or any ingredient in the formulation or packaging.

Interactions and contraindications

Do not take escitalopram if you are also taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, anxiety medications, pimozide, citalopram, isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine. This is not a comprehensive list, so make sure to review all your medications with your doctor before starting atorvastatin.

Children and young adults

Escitalopram is not approved for use by children younger than 12. Some young people experience increased suicidal ideation when they begin taking this medication.

Pregnancy and lactation

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should use Escitalopram with caution, as it may increase the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN).

Medical history

Be sure to let your doctor know if you have a history of prolonged QT syndrome, previous heart issue, depression, mental illness, liver disease, kidney disease, seizures, low sodium, heart disease, high blood pressure, strokes, bleeding problems, sexual problems, bipolar disorder, drug addiction, or suicidal ideation.

Alcohol Consumption

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking escitalopram.

Abrupt withdrawal

Avoid stopping this medication cold turkey.