Expres
Generic Name
Escitalopram
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| expres 5 mg tablet | ৳ 7.00 | ৳ 70.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Expres 5 mg Tablet is an antidepressant medicine containing Escitalopram, used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and panic disorder. It helps restore the balance of a natural substance (serotonin) in the brain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 10 mg once daily, may be increased to 20 mg/day after at least one week. For panic disorder, initial dose 5 mg once daily for the first week, then 10 mg once daily, may be increased to 20 mg/day.
Elderly
Initial dose 5 mg once daily, maximum 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 the tablet orally once daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
Mechanism of Action
Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain, which helps maintain mental balance and improve mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects may take 2-4 weeks to become noticeable.
Excretion
Excreted in urine and feces, mainly as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 27-32 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, independent of food. Bioavailability is about 80%.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic, via CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and CYP2D6 to demethylated and didemethylated metabolites, which are pharmacologically active but less potent.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Escitalopram or any component of the tablet
- Concomitant use with MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOIs
- Concomitant use with Pimozide
- Congenital long QT syndrome or acquired long QT syndrome
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Risk of serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability, mental status changes).
Alcohol
Potentiation of CNS depressant effects; avoid concomitant use.
Pimozide
Increased risk of QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias.
Warfarin
Increased bleeding risk due to altered platelet aggregation.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of bleeding.
SSRIs/SNRIs/Triptans
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include dizziness, tremor, agitation, somnolence, sinus tachycardia, QT prolongation, seizures, coma. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, maintaining airway, breathing, and circulation. Activated charcoal may be considered. Monitor cardiac rhythm.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Neonates exposed to SSRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications. Excreted in breast milk; avoid breastfeeding or weigh benefits vs. risks.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Escitalopram or any component of the tablet
- Concomitant use with MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOIs
- Concomitant use with Pimozide
- Congenital long QT syndrome or acquired long QT syndrome
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Risk of serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability, mental status changes).
Alcohol
Potentiation of CNS depressant effects; avoid concomitant use.
Pimozide
Increased risk of QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias.
Warfarin
Increased bleeding risk due to altered platelet aggregation.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of bleeding.
SSRIs/SNRIs/Triptans
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include dizziness, tremor, agitation, somnolence, sinus tachycardia, QT prolongation, seizures, coma. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, maintaining airway, breathing, and circulation. Activated charcoal may be considered. Monitor cardiac rhythm.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Neonates exposed to SSRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications. Excreted in breast milk; avoid breastfeeding or weigh benefits vs. risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generically available
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Escitalopram in the treatment of MDD, GAD, PD, SAD, and OCD. Studies have shown superior efficacy over placebo and comparable efficacy to other SSRIs with a favorable tolerability profile.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor serum sodium, especially in elderly and those on diuretics.
- Consider ECG monitoring in patients at risk for QT prolongation.
Doctor Notes
- Assess for suicidal ideation, especially at treatment initiation or dose changes.
- Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome.
- Counsel patients on the importance of adherence and not abruptly discontinuing treatment.
- Caution in patients with a history of seizures or cardiac conditions.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for gradual dose reduction.
- It may take several weeks to feel the full benefits.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
- Report any suicidal thoughts or worsening depression to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga.
- Ensure adequate sleep.
- Engage in social activities and hobbies.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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