Empala
Generic Name
Escitalopram
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| empala 10 mg tablet | ৳ 25.00 | ৳ 250.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Empala 10 mg Tablet is a medication used to treat depression and various anxiety disorders. It works by restoring the balance of a natural substance (serotonin) in the brain. It belongs to a class of drugs known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
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. For MDD/GAD, usual maintenance dose is 10-20 mg once daily.
Elderly
A lower initial dose of 5 mg once daily may be considered, with a maximum recommended dose of 10 mg once daily.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 20 mL/min).
How to Take
Take Empala 10 mg Tablet orally once daily, with or without food. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.
Mechanism of Action
Empala (Escitalopram) selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) in the central nervous system, thereby enhancing and prolonging the effect of serotonin in the synaptic cleft. It has minimal effect on noradrenaline and dopamine neuronal reuptake.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects may begin within 1-2 weeks, but full effect may take 4-6 weeks.
Excretion
Mainly through the urine, with a small amount excreted in feces. Less than 8% of unchanged escitalopram is excreted in the urine.
Half life
Approximately 27-32 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, absorption is not affected by food. Peak plasma concentration is reached within 4 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and CYP2D6 to its major metabolites, S-desmethylcitalopram and S-didesmethylcitalopram.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to escitalopram or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI.
- Concomitant use with pimozide.
- Congenital long QT syndrome or known acquired QT prolongation.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome; contraindicated.
Pimozide
Increased pimozide levels and potential for QT prolongation; contraindicated.
NSAIDs, Aspirin
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Warfarin and other oral anticoagulants
Increased risk of bleeding; monitor INR.
Cimetidine, Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, Ticlopidine
May increase escitalopram plasma levels.
Serotonergic drugs (e.g., triptans, tramadol, other SSRIs, SNRIs)
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 of overdose include dizziness, tremor, agitation, somnolence, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and rarely seizures. Management involves symptomatic and supportive treatment, including maintaining an adequate airway, oxygenation, and ventilation. 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 in human 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 the date of manufacture
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of escitalopram in the treatment of major depressive disorder and various anxiety disorders, showing significant improvement in symptoms compared to placebo.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine lab monitoring is generally required.
- Consider monitoring serum sodium in elderly patients or those who are volume-depleted, due to risk of hyponatremia.
- Monitor ECG in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or those at risk of QT prolongation.
Doctor Notes
- Initiate therapy with 10 mg daily and titrate as needed, considering patient response and tolerability.
- Educate patients about the delayed onset of action and the importance of continuous therapy.
- Monitor for emergent suicidality, especially in pediatric and young adult patients, and during dose adjustments.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms may occur.
- It may take several weeks (4-6 weeks) to feel the full benefits of this medicine.
- Report any unusual mood changes, agitation, or suicidal thoughts to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, 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
Empala may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired judgment. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication, as it may worsen side effects.
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise to support overall well-being.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.