WARNING

The risks of taking Escitalopram, like any medication, should be weighed against its potential benefits. Here are some of the risks associated with Escitalopram:

• Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: There is a small risk of experiencing increased suicidal thoughts or behaviors, particularly in young adults, adolescents, and individuals under 25 years old. Close monitoring is essential, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage.
• Serotonin Syndrome: Escitalopram can increase serotonin levels in the brain. When combined with other medications that also affect serotonin levels, there is a risk of developing serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by symptoms such as agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, fever, excessive sweating, shivering or shaking, blurred vision, muscle twitching, tremor, incoordination, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Suddenly stopping Escitalopram or rapidly decreasing the dosage can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, irritability, agitation, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, electric shock sensations (paresthesia), and flu-like symptoms.
• Bleeding Risks: Escitalopram may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if taken with other medications that also increase bleeding risk (such as blood thinners like warfarin or antiplatelet drugs like aspirin).
• Hyponatremia: In rare cases, Escitalopram may cause low sodium levels in the blood (hyponatremia), which can lead to symptoms such as headache, difficulty concentrating, memory impairment, confusion, weakness, unsteadiness, hallucinations, fainting, seizures, and coma.
• Manic Episodes: In individuals with bipolar disorder, Escitalopram may precipitate manic episodes or worsen existing manic symptoms.
• Sexual Side Effects: Some individuals may experience sexual side effects, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or difficulty achieving orgasm.
• Other Side Effects: Escitalopram may cause other side effects, including nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, insomnia, increased sweating, weight changes, and gastrointestinal disturbances.

It’s important to discuss these risks with your healthcare provider before starting Escitalopram, and to report any concerning symptoms or side effects during treatment. Additionally, never stop taking Escitalopram abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Escitalopram is primarily prescribed for the treatment of two main conditions:

• Depression: Escitalopram is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), which is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or weight, difficulty sleeping or oversleeping, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Escitalopram is also prescribed for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, which involves excessive worry or anxiety about various aspects of life, such as work, relationships, health, or everyday situations. Symptoms of GAD include restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and fatigue.

How should this medicine be used?

Escitalopram should be used exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It’s essential to follow their instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective treatment. Here are some general guidelines on how Escitalopram should be used:

• Dosage: Take Escitalopram exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosage will depend on your specific condition, medical history, and individual response to the medication. Do not change the dosage or frequency of use without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Administration: Escitalopram is usually taken orally, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet before swallowing it.
• Timing: Take Escitalopram at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your bloodstream. This can help maximize its effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects.
• Duration of treatment: Continue taking Escitalopram for the full duration prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better before the treatment is complete. It may take several weeks for the full therapeutic effects of Escitalopram to be felt. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms, so it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance on when and how to discontinue treatment.
• Missed dose: If you forget to take a dose of Escitalopram, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
• Medical supervision: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dosage or treatment plan based on your symptoms and side effects.
• Avoid alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Escitalopram, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
• Storage: Store Escitalopram at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

It’s important to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about using Escitalopram with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual needs and medical history.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to treating depression and anxiety, escitalopram may also be used off-label for other conditions, including:

• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Social anxiety disorder
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding precautions for taking escitalopram, it’s important to follow the advice of your healthcare provider. Here are some general precautions:

• Suicidal Thoughts: Like other antidepressants, escitalopram may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in young adults and adolescents. Close monitoring is essential, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage.
• Serotonin Syndrome: Escitalopram, like other SSRIs, can increase serotonin levels in the brain. This can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome when combined with other medications that also increase serotonin levels. Be cautious when taking other medications that affect serotonin levels concurrently.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits of taking escitalopram during pregnancy or while breastfeeding with your healthcare provider. Generally, the risks to the fetus or newborn must be weighed against the benefits of treatment.
• Drug Interactions: Escitalopram can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially liver or kidney problems, seizures, bipolar disorder, or a history of bleeding disorders.

Always take escitalopram exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and never adjust the dosage or stop taking it without consulting them first. If you experience any concerning side effects or symptoms while taking escitalopram, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions for Escitalopram, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption is generally advisable during antidepressant treatment.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Escitalopram, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Escitalopram, like other medications, may cause side effects in some individuals. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and they can vary in severity. Common side effects of Escitalopram include:

• Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach or experiencing the urge to vomit.
• Headache: Aching or discomfort in the head, often occurring as a side effect when starting treatment.
• Insomnia or drowsiness: Difficulty falling asleep (insomnia) or excessive drowsiness, which may affect sleep quality.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy, which can occur during the initial phase of treatment.
• Dry mouth: Decreased saliva production leading to a dry sensation in the mouth.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady, especially when standing up quickly.
• Diarrhea or constipation: Changes in bowel habits, including increased frequency of bowel movements (diarrhea) or difficulty passing stools (constipation).
• Increased sweating: Experiencing more sweating than usual, including night sweats.
• Sexual side effects: Such as decreased libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, or erectile dysfunction.
• Weight changes: Some individuals may experience weight gain or weight loss while taking Escitalopram.
• Agitation or nervousness: Feeling restless, jittery, or anxious.
• Tremor: Involuntary shaking or trembling of the hands or other parts of the body.
• Blurred vision: Difficulty seeing clearly or focusing.
• Increased risk of bleeding: Escitalopram may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly when used with other medications that also increase bleeding risk.
• Hyponatremia: Low sodium levels in the blood, which can cause symptoms such as headache, confusion, weakness, and seizures.
• Serotonin syndrome: A potentially life-threatening condition characterized by symptoms such as agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, fever, excessive sweating, tremor, and diarrhea.

It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects while taking Escitalopram, especially if they are severe, persistent, or affecting your quality of life. They may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend strategies to manage these side effects effectively. Additionally, some side effects may diminish or disappear over time as your body adjusts to the medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to storage and disposal of Escitalopram, it’s important to follow certain guidelines to ensure safety and efficacy:

• Storage: Store Escitalopram at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as moisture can degrade the medication. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Escitalopram properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, take it to a medication take-back program or follow specific disposal instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Escitalopram, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Tremor
• Sweating
• Seizures
• Confusion
• Hallucinations

If you or someone else has taken too much Escitalopram, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 (or your local poison control center) or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up appointments: Keep regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dosage or treatment plan based on your symptoms and side effects.
• Avoid alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Escitalopram, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
• Medical alert bracelet: Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or carrying a medical alert card indicating that you are taking Escitalopram, especially if you have a history of seizures or other medical conditions.
• Inform healthcare providers: Inform all healthcare providers (including dentists and emergency medical personnel) that you are taking Escitalopram before undergoing any medical procedures or surgeries.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Escitalopram with your healthcare provider. It’s important to weigh the potential risks to the fetus or newborn against the benefits of treatment.
• Avoid abrupt discontinuation: Do not stop taking Escitalopram abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Dosage should be gradually tapered off under medical supervision when discontinuing treatment.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of Escitalopram and ask any questions you may have about its storage, disposal, or potential risks.