Medicine Information

Escilex

Name: Escilex
Brand: Escilex
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Oral Solution5 mg per 5 mLSelective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)ATC: N06AB10

Generic Name

Escitalopram 5 mg Oral Solution

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
escilex 5 mg oral solution	৳ 140.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Escilex 5 mg Oral Solution contains escitalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other related mental health conditions. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, helping to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Uses & Indications

Major depressive episodes

Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia

Generalized anxiety disorder

Social anxiety disorder (social phobia)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Dosage

Adults

Initial dose is usually 5 mg once daily, increasing to 10 mg after one week. Maximum recommended dose is 20 mg daily.

Elderly

Initial dose is usually 5 mg once daily. Maximum recommended dose for elderly patients is 10 mg daily.

Renal_impairment

No dose adjustment is generally required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Caution is advised in severe renal impairment.

How to Take

Escilex Oral Solution should be taken once daily, with or without food. Use the provided measuring device to ensure accurate dosing.

Mechanism of Action

Escitalopram selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) in the central nervous system, leading to an potentiation of serotonergic neurotransmission. It has minimal effect on noradrenaline and dopamine neuronal reuptake.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Clinical effects typically begin to appear within 2-4 weeks of continuous treatment.

Excretion

Mainly excreted in the urine, with a smaller portion in the feces.

Half life

Approximately 27-32 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.

Absorption

Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring after approximately 4 hours.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes (primarily CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4) to active and inactive metabolites.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to escitalopram or any excipient
Concomitant use with MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI
Concomitant use with pimozide
Congenital long QT syndrome or acquired QTc prolongation
Concomitant use with other medicinal products known to prolong the QT interval

Drug Interactions

MAOIs

Risk of serotonin syndrome. Concomitant use is contraindicated.

Pimozide

Increased risk of QTc prolongation. Concomitant use is contraindicated.

Warfarin

Increased risk of bleeding due to potential potentiation of anticoagulant effects.

NSAIDs/Aspirin

Increased risk of bleeding.

Lithium/Triptans

Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.

Cimetidine/Omeprazole

May increase escitalopram plasma levels.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, tremor, somnolence, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, QTc prolongation, and seizures. Management should involve general symptomatic and supportive measures, including monitoring of cardiac function and vital signs.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Escitalopram is excreted in breast milk; therefore, use in breastfeeding mothers is not recommended unless the benefits outweigh the potential risks to the infant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

100 mL bottle

Shelf Life

24 months from manufacturing date (unopened). Once opened, use within 2-3 months.

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)

Patent Status

Generic versions available

Clinical Trials

Escitalopram has undergone numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Lab Monitoring

Baseline and periodic electrolyte levels (especially sodium) if hyponatremia is a concern
Liver function tests if hepatic impairment is suspected
Renal function tests if renal impairment is suspected
ECG monitoring in patients with cardiac risk factors or concomitant medications that prolong the QT interval

Doctor Notes

Monitor for emergent suicidality, especially at initiation or dose titration.
Educate patients on symptoms of serotonin syndrome and discontinuation syndrome.
Consider ECG monitoring for patients with cardiac risk factors or concomitant QT-prolonging drugs.
Assess for history of mania/hypomania before starting treatment.

Patient Guidelines

Take as prescribed by your doctor; do not stop abruptly without consulting your doctor.
Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
Report any unusual mood changes, agitation, or suicidal thoughts immediately.
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Driving Precautions

This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired concentration. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating hazardous machinery until they are reasonably certain that Escilex does not adversely affect their ability to engage in such activities.