Nodep

Description

Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, helping restore emotional balance. Regular use may stabilize mood, reduce nervousness, and improve energy levels.

Primary Uses

• Depression (Major Depressive Disorder).

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

Indications

• Persistent sadness, lack of interest, and behavioral withdrawal.

• Chronic anxiety or excessive worry affecting daily life.

How to Use

• Take once daily, with or without food, as prescribed.

• Swallow whole with water. Do not crush or chew.

• Take at the same time each day (morning or evening).

• Do not stop abruptly without consulting your doctor.

Expert Advice

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine while on this medicine.

• If allergic reactions or worsening mood occur, seek medical help immediately.

• Escitalopram should be tapered, not abruptly discontinued.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Sexual dysfunction.

• Anxiety, tremors.

• Muscle or joint pain.

• Weight gain, abnormal dreams.

• Nausea, sweating.

• Drowsiness or insomnia.

• Dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness.

Seek medical advice if suicidal thoughts, severe confusion, high fever, or seizures occur.

Warnings

Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed. Late-pregnancy use may cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns.
Lactation: May pass into breast milk. Consult doctor before use.
Driving: May impair alertness — avoid driving if drowsy.
Liver/Kidney Patients: Dose adjustment may be required.
Alcohol: Increases dizziness and drowsiness — avoid completely.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you have:

• Bipolar disorder or past suicide attempts.

• Liver or kidney disease.

• History of seizures.

• Bleeding disorders or low sodium levels.

• Glaucoma or heart rhythm disorders (QT prolongation).

Monitor blood salts and ECG if on interacting medications.

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to Escitalopram.

• Concurrent use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) — risk of serotonin syndrome.

FAQ

Q. What is the usual adult dose?
A. 10 mg once daily; may be increased to 20 mg if needed.

Q. Can children take Escitalopram?
A. Not recommended for children.

Q. How should I store it?
A. Store at room temperature (18–25°C), away from light and moisture.

Q. When should I contact my doctor?
A. If you experience severe headache, nightmares, irritability, stomach upset, insomnia, or suicidal thoughts.

Doctor’s Review

“Escitalopram is one of the better-tolerated SSRIs for depression and anxiety. It helps stabilize mood and improves daily functioning when taken consistently. However, monitoring during the initial weeks is important, especially for mood changes or sleep disturbances.”
— Dr. Faizan Ali, MD (Psychiatry), Consultant Psychiatrist

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any medication.