Escitalopram is a prescription mediaction that can be purchased as the brand name drug Lexapro. As an antidepressant medication, escitalopram can be helpful in treating depression and associated conditions. In the following 3-minute article, we outline how to take escitalopram, as well as side effects, warnings, interactions, and dosage for this popular medication.
What Is Escitalopram?
Escitalopram is a prescription medication useful in the treatment of depression in adults and children above the age of 12. It can be purchased as the brand name medication Lexapro and as a generic medication under an oral solution.
How To Take Escitalopram
Take escitalopram as directed by your doctor or other healthcare professional. In general, doctors recommend that you take escitalopram once a day at the same time every day.
You can take escitalopram at any time of the day, as long as you stick to the same time each day. If you have trouble sleeping, it is best to take escitalporam in the morning, immediately after you awake.
Take Escitalopram As Directed
Escitalopram can be taken with or without food. If you are taking the oral liquid form of escitalopram, be sure to shake the bottle well before measuring your dose. Use a marked measuring spoon or oral syringe to ensure you take the exact amount you need. The average household measuring units may be inaccurate.
Escitalopram Dosage
Dosage for escitalopram varies and can depend on many factors including the following:
- Your age
- Your weight
- Your condition
- Severity of symptoms
Always consult with your doctor before beginning your dosage of escitalopram.
Escitalopram Dosage For Depression
Adult: 10mg once a day, taken in the early morning or late evening. Dosage should not exceed 20mg per day.
Dosage For Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Adult: 10mg once a day, taken in the early morning or late evening. Dosage should not exceed 20mg per day.
How Does Escitalopram Work?
As a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), escitalopram works to increase serotonin levels in the brain. It is thought that escitalopram achieves this by blocking the recycling of serotonin back into nerve endings.
Side Effects Of Escitalopram
The most common side effects of escitalopram are relatively mild and should disappear within the first few days.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Sweating
- Drowsiness
- Feeling weak
- Increased thirst
- Decreased interest in sex
- Confusion
If these side effects are mild, they should disappear within a few days. If side effects persist, talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional.
Serious Side Effects of Escitalopram
Some side effects of escitalopram more serious and may require medical attention. If you experience any of the following serious symptoms, call your doctor as soon as possible. Call 911 if you think your symptoms may be life-threatening.
- Coma
- Seizures
- Black, tarry stools
- Bloody stools
- Blood in the urine
- Burning while urinating
- Chills
- Severe chest pain
- Palpitations
- Hives or severe rash
- Yellowing of eyes or skin
- Vomiting of blood
Disclaimer: Here at Manifest Pharmacy, our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.
Uses of Escitalopram
Escitalopram can be used used to treat depression in adults and children and teenagers 12 years of ago or older. It is also used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). This condition is characterized by excessive worry and tension that disrupts daily life and lasts for 6 months or longer.
Warnings Of Escitalopram
Talk to your doctor about your health conditions and other medications before taking escitalopram. Taking this medication in conjunction with certain other products can result in serious and sometimes life-threatening symptoms and side effects.
Serotonin Syndrome Warning
Escitalopram may cause a very serious condition known as serotonin syndrome if taken in conjunction with the following medications:
- Buspirone
- Fentanyl
- Lithium
- Tramadol
Bleeding Problem Warning
This medicine may increase your risk for serious bleeding problems. Consult with your doctor before taking escitalopram if you currently take any of the following:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen
- Blood thinners
- NSAIDs
- Warfarin
- Naproxen
Hyponatremia Warning
Escitalopram has been known to cause hyponatremia (low sodium in the blood) in certain patients. This is more common in elderly patients who take medications for high blood pressure. Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms of hyponatremia:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Fainting
- Weakness
- Headache
- Memory problems
- Confusion
- Trouble concentrating
Takeaway
Escitalopram is a prescription mediaction that can be purchased as the brand name drug Lexapro. It can be used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
