Escitalopram Oral Tablets 2025: Price, Uses, Side Effects & Essential Guide

Escitalopram is a widely prescribed generic medication used primarily to manage depression and anxiety disorders. Administered orally in tablet form, it belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class, designed to elevate serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood and emotional balance.

Healthcare providers commonly recommend escitalopram to treat:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in adults

For detailed information on how escitalopram addresses these conditions, refer to the section “What is escitalopram oral tablet used for?” below.

Key Facts About Escitalopram Oral Tablets

Escitalopram is taken orally and is also available as a liquid suspension; however, this guide focuses solely on the tablet form. If interested in other formulations, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Brand Name and Generic Information

Escitalopram is available as a generic drug and under the brand name Lexapro. Both forms share identical active ingredients and therapeutic uses. Notably, Lexapro has FDA approval for treating GAD in children as young as 7 years, whereas generic escitalopram may be prescribed off-label for this purpose.

Being a generic, escitalopram offers a cost-effective alternative to brand-name Lexapro, maintaining equivalent safety and effectiveness. Discuss options with your doctor to determine the best choice for your treatment plan.

Common and Serious Side Effects of Escitalopram Oral Tablets

Like all medications, escitalopram may cause side effects, ranging from mild to serious. These effects can vary depending on individual factors such as age, dose, medical history, and concurrent medications.

Mild Side Effects

• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
• Nausea
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Excessive sweating
• Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido

Most mild side effects tend to diminish within days or weeks. Should they persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects

• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Low sodium levels
• Mania or hypomania episodes
• Seizures
• Serotonin syndrome—a potentially life-threatening condition
• Impaired coordination or cognitive difficulties
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors (especially in children and young adults)
• Allergic reactions, including severe swelling or difficulty breathing
• Withdrawal symptoms if discontinued abruptly

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious side effects.

Understanding the Boxed Warning

Escitalopram carries an FDA boxed warning highlighting the increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during initial treatment phases or dosage adjustments. Vigilant monitoring for mood or behavior changes is crucial.

Support Resources

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)
• Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741)
• Befrienders Worldwide (for international support)
• Emergency services (911 or local number) for urgent situations

Sexual Side Effects in Detail

Patients may encounter sexual side effects such as delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and reduced libido in men; women might experience decreased libido and difficulty achieving orgasm. Discuss these symptoms with your doctor for management strategies.

Allergic Reactions

Mild allergic symptoms include rash, itching, and flushing. Severe reactions involve swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, posing breathing difficulties. Immediate medical attention is necessary if these occur.

Drug Interactions with Escitalopram

Escitalopram can interact with various medications and supplements, potentially altering its effects or increasing risks.

Notable Drug Interactions

• Other antidepressants
• Migraine medications like sumatriptan
• Benzodiazepines
• Serotonergic drugs such as amitriptyline
• Blood thinners like aspirin and warfarin
• Enzyme inhibitors affecting CYP2D6 metabolism
• Heart medications including digoxin and metoprolol
• Herbal supplements such as St. John's wort

Concurrent use of escitalopram and pimozide is contraindicated due to serious interaction risks.

Potential Interaction with Cannabis

Both escitalopram and cannabis may increase serotonin levels, raising the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined. Always inform your doctor about cannabis use before starting escitalopram.

Precautions Before Starting Escitalopram

Discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider, including:

• Bipolar disorder, as escitalopram may trigger mania
• Current or recent use of MAO inhibitors (wait periods required)
• Glaucoma, due to heightened risk of attacks
• Heart conditions, including arrhythmias
• Liver or kidney impairment, which may require dose adjustments
• Seizure disorders
• Known allergies to escitalopram or its ingredients

Alcohol Use

Avoid alcohol consumption during escitalopram therapy as it can exacerbate side effects like drowsiness, nausea, and coordination problems.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Considerations

Escitalopram’s safety in pregnancy is not fully established; SSRIs may pose risks to newborns. Enrollment in pregnancy registries is encouraged to monitor outcomes. The medication passes into breast milk and may affect infants; consult your doctor to weigh benefits and risks.

Dosage Guidelines for Escitalopram Oral Tablets

Escitalopram is available in 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets. Typical adult dosing starts at 10 mg once daily, with a potential increase to 20 mg based on response and tolerance. Pediatric dosing for those 12 and older follows similar protocols, with cautious titration.

Take the medication consistently at the same time daily, adjusting timing to minimize side effects (morning for insomnia, evening for drowsiness).

Frequently Asked Questions About Escitalopram

• What if I miss a dose? Take it as soon as remembered unless near the next dose; do not double dose.
• Is long-term use safe? Yes, under medical supervision if effective and well-tolerated.
• Can tablets be crushed or split? 5 mg tablets should not be crushed; 10 mg and 20 mg tablets may be split or crushed.
• How long until effects appear? Several weeks; consult your doctor for expectations.

Understanding Withdrawal and Safety

Do not discontinue escitalopram abruptly to avoid withdrawal symptoms such as mood changes, fatigue, headache, and insomnia. Tapering under medical guidance is essential.

Escitalopram is not addictive and does not induce euphoric 'highs'. Weight changes are uncommon but may be related to underlying conditions or recovery.

Overdose Information

Taking more than prescribed can cause serious symptoms such as coma, seizures, heart rhythm disturbances, and low blood pressure. In case of overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Cost and Financial Assistance in 2024

Escitalopram prices vary by pharmacy and insurance coverage. Financial aid resources like Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds can help reduce costs. Optum Perks offers coupon options for additional savings, but cannot be combined with insurance copays.

Comparisons with Other SSRIs

Escitalopram is often compared to citalopram (Celexa) and sertraline (Zoloft). Each has unique profiles; consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best option for your needs.

Consult Your Healthcare Provider

Always discuss any questions or concerns regarding escitalopram with your doctor or pharmacist. They can guide you through treatment options, manage side effects, and monitor your progress to ensure the best outcomes.

Pharmacist Q&A: Understanding Serotonin Syndrome

Q: What symptoms should I watch for regarding serotonin syndrome while on escitalopram?
A: Symptoms include confusion, agitation, disorientation, muscle stiffness, tremors, nausea, hallucinations, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and dilated pupils. Severe signs like irregular heartbeat, seizures, unresponsiveness, or coma require immediate emergency care.

Note: This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making medication decisions.

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