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Escitalopram

Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI. The attached Lexapro record contains escitalopram alone in 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg film-coated tablets.

Lexapro

Major Depressive Disorder

5mg · 10mg · 20mg

Intended to relieve clinical depressive symptoms and anxiety to support healthy neural neurotransmitter activity.

From$0.49/ tabletView

Key points

  • Escitalopram increases serotonin signalling by inhibiting its reuptake.
  • Lexapro 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg tablets contain the same active ingredient at different strengths.
  • Its established uses include major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder.
  • Benefit can take several weeks, while adverse effects or behavioural changes can appear earlier.

The early-treatment timeline

An SSRI does not work like an immediate calming medicine. Sleep, appetite or physical anxiety symptoms may change before the full mood or anxiety response is clear. The Lexapro record links to generalised anxiety disorder within antidepressants.

The listed strength is only one part of treatment. Age, liver function, other medicines, response and tolerability can all affect the prescribed plan.

Changes that need a closer look

New or worsening agitation, suicidal thoughts, unusual behavioural change or a marked mood elevation needs prompt clinical attention, particularly early in treatment or after a dose change. Combining serotonergic medicines can also raise the risk of serotonin syndrome, with features such as agitation, fever, sweating, tremor, muscle rigidity or diarrhoea.

Escitalopram is normally reduced gradually rather than stopped suddenly. Abrupt discontinuation may cause dizziness, sensory disturbances, irritability, anxiety, headache or sleep disruption. Any planned change should account for the reason for treatment and the person’s response.

Further reading

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