Celeste
Generic Name
Escitalopram
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| celeste 20 mg tablet | ৳ 60.18 | ৳ 120.36 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Celeste 20 mg Tablet contains Escitalopram, which is used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 10 mg once daily, may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg once daily after at least one week.
Elderly
A starting dose of 5 mg once daily, maximum recommended dose is 10 mg once daily.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate impairment. Use with caution in severe impairment.
How to Take
Take orally once daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain, a natural substance that helps maintain mental balance.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Initial effects may be seen within 1-2 weeks, full therapeutic effect usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via the urine (metabolites) and some via feces.
Half life
Approximately 27-33 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, unaffected by food.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and CYP2D6.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to escitalopram or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with MAO inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI.
- Concomitant use with pimozide.
- Congenital long QT syndrome or acquired QT prolongation.
Drug Interactions
Pimozide
Concomitant use is contraindicated due to increased pimozide levels.
NSAIDs and Aspirin
Increased risk of bleeding.
MAO Inhibitors (MAOIs)
Risk of serotonin syndrome.
Warfarin and other anticoagulants
Increased risk of bleeding.
Drugs that prolong QT interval (e.g., antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics)
Increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
Other Serotonergic Drugs (e.g., Triptans, Tramadol, other SSRIs, SNRIs, St. John's Wort)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include dizziness, tremor, somnolence, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, hypotension, EKG changes (including QT prolongation), and seizures. Management is primarily supportive, including maintaining an open airway, monitoring cardiac and vital signs, and activated charcoal.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Escitalopram is excreted in human breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic versions available
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of escitalopram for its approved indications, including placebo-controlled trials for MDD and GAD.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor serum sodium levels in patients at risk for hyponatremia (e.g., elderly, patients taking diuretics).
- Monitor liver function tests periodically in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients on the delayed onset of therapeutic effects and the importance of continued adherence.
- Monitor for emergent suicidality, especially at the initiation of therapy or during dose changes.
- Advise gradual tapering when discontinuing treatment to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for a gradual reduction.
- It may take several weeks for the full therapeutic effect to be noticed.
- Report any worsening of depression, unusual changes in behavior, or suicidal thoughts to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Celeste may cause dizziness, somnolence, or affect your ability to concentrate. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.