Elopram
Generic Name
Escitalopram
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| elopram 10 mg tablet | ৳ 11.00 | ৳ 110.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Elopram 10 mg Tablet contains Escitalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for treating major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 10 mg once daily. May be increased to a maximum of 20 mg once daily after at least one week. Administer with or without food.
Elderly
Initial dose: 5 mg once daily. Max dose typically 10 mg daily.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment generally necessary for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Take orally, once daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Escitalopram selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin at the presynaptic neuron, leading to an increased concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft. This enhancement of serotonergic neurotransmission is believed to mediate its antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Initial antidepressant effects may be seen within 1-2 weeks, but full therapeutic effect typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Excretion
Mainly through the urine (approximately 8% unchanged) and feces. Renal clearance is 20-30 L/hour.
Half life
Approximately 27-32 hours (single-dose), with steady-state concentrations achieved in about one week.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with approximately 80% bioavailability. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in about 3-4 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and CYP2D6 to its active (S-desmethylcitalopram) and inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to escitalopram or any excipients
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping MAOI treatment
- Concomitant use with pimozide
- Known QT interval prolongation or congenital long QT syndrome
Drug Interactions
Pimozide
Increased pimozide levels and QT prolongation. Concomitant use is contraindicated.
MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal. Avoid concomitant use and ensure a washout period.
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
Increased risk of bleeding, especially gastrointestinal bleeding.
Triptans (e.g., sumatriptan)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Warfarin and other anticoagulants
Increased risk of bleeding due to potential inhibition of platelet aggregation.
Storage
Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, tremor, nausea, vomiting, somnolence, sinus tachycardia, and rarely, seizures or QT prolongation. Management is primarily supportive, including maintaining an open airway, monitoring cardiac rhythm and vital signs, and symptomatic treatment. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Escitalopram is excreted into breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic versions available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of escitalopram in treating major depressive disorder and various anxiety disorders.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor serum sodium levels periodically, especially in elderly patients or those taking diuretics.
- Liver function tests may be considered in patients with hepatic impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on delayed onset of action and importance of adherence.
- Counsel on potential for withdrawal symptoms if discontinued abruptly.
- Monitor for suicidal ideation, especially in young adults.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking Elopram abruptly, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for gradual dose reduction.
- Report any new or worsening depression symptoms, suicidal thoughts, or unusual changes in mood/behavior to your doctor immediately.
- It may take several weeks for the full therapeutic effects to be noticed.
- Avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until you know how this medicine affects you.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Elopram may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired concentration. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they are reasonably certain that Elopram does not affect their ability to engage in such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet to support mental well-being.
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Global Brand Names
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