Escitalopram (Escitalopram)
Overview of Escitalopram
Escitalopram is an isomer of citalopram, an antidepressant that selectively inhibits reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) i.e belongs to SSRIs (selective serotonin release inhibitors). Escitalopram is effective in the treatment of depression, and panic disorders.
Indication of Escitalopram
Escitalopram is primarily indicated in conditions like Depression, Depressive illness, Panic disorders, Social anxiety disorder.
Contraindication of Escitalopram
Escitalopram is contraindicated in conditions like Serotonin syndrome.
Side Effects of Escitalopram
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Escitalopram, which give rise to further complications include Bleeding.,Escitalopram produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hemorrhage, Serotonin syndrome, Neuromascular syndrome. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Escitalopram therapy.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Escitalopram are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Fatigue, Nausea, Anxiety, Insomnia, Sweating, GI upset, Somnolence, Tremor, Sexual dysfunction, Decreased appetite, Pyrexia, Decrease in libido, Sinusitis, Ejaculatory disturbances, Anorgasmia in women.
Precautions of Escitalopram
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug.This drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. If it is used with other antidepressant drugs, there is an increase risk of suicidal thinking and behaviour in children, aldolescent and young adults for major depressive disorder and other psychiatric disorder. It is not approved for use in paediatrics less than 12 years of age.