Indication

Major depressive disorder, Depression, Panic disorder, Obsessive compulsive disorder, Anxiety disorder

Administration

May be taken with or without food.

Adult Dose

Oral Anxiety; Depression; Obsessive compulsive disorder Adult: 10 mg once daily, increased after at least a wk if needed. Max: 20 mg once daily. Pa... View More

Child Dose

Major Depressive Disorder <12 years: Safety and efficacy not established >12 years: 10 mg PO qDay; may increase dose after at least 3 weeks; not to ... View More

Contraindication

Concomitant use with or within 2 wk of MAOI withdrawal.

Mode of Action

Escitalopram selectively inhibits CNS neuronal re-uptake of serotonin (5-HT) and potentiates serotonergic activity. It has minimal effects on norepineph... View More

Precaution

History of mania or seizure disorders; work requiring mental alertness; renal and hepatic impairment; pregnancy, lactation; withdraw gradually. Lact... View More

Side Effect

>10% Headache (24%),Nausea (18%),Ejaculation disorder (9-14%),Somnolence (4-13%),Insomnia (7-12%) 1-10% Xerostomia (4-9%),Constipation (3-6%),Fatig... View More

Pregnancy Category Note

Pregnancy There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women; therefore, use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies ... View More

Interaction

Increased risk of bleeding when used with aspirin, NSAIDs or drugs that affect coagulation. Serum levels may be reduced by CYP2C19 inducers (e.g. carbamazepine, rifampin, phenytoin) or CYP3A4 inducers (e.g. nafcillin, nevirapine). Serum levels may also be increased by CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g. fluconazole, fluvoxamine, omeprazole) or CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g. azole antifungals, clarithromycin). May increase serum levels of desipramine or metoprolol. Increased risk of serotonin syndrome when used with linezolid or sibutramine. Escitalopram may enhance the sedative effects of alcohol. Potentially Fatal: Concomitant administration with MAOIs may lead to serious or fatal reactions; should not be started until at least 2 wk after stopping escitalopram or vice versa. Moclobemide may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome