Lexapro
Generic Name
Escitalopram 5 mg tablet
Manufacturer
Lundbeck
Country
Denmark
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| lexapro 5 mg tablet | ৳ 6.50 | ৳ 65.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Lexapro (escitalopram) is an antidepressant in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial 10 mg once daily, may increase to a maximum of 20 mg once daily. A 5 mg dose may be used as a starting dose or for certain patient populations.
Elderly
Initial 5 mg once daily, maximum recommended dose 10 mg once daily.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate 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.
Mechanism of Action
Escitalopram selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) by presynaptic neurons in the central nervous system, thereby enhancing serotonergic activity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Initial therapeutic effects typically seen within 1-4 weeks, with full effect potentially taking longer.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via urine, with some fecal excretion. The parent drug and its metabolites are eliminated.
Half life
Approximately 27-32 hours (single dose), allowing for once-daily dosing.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, peak plasma concentration reached in approximately 5 hours. Absorption is not affected by food.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and CYP2D6 to inactive or less active metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping MAOI therapy.
- Concomitant use with pimozide.
- Known hypersensitivity to escitalopram or citalopram.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Risk of serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability, mental status changes).
Pimozide
Increased pimozide levels and potential for QTc prolongation.
Warfarin
Altered coagulation; monitor INR.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of bleeding.
Other Serotonergic Drugs (e.g., Triptans, Tricyclic Antidepressants, Fentanyl, Lithium, Tramadol)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C), away from moisture and direct light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, tremor, nausea, vomiting, somnolence, tachycardia, hypotension, and seizures. Management is supportive: maintain airway, monitor cardiac and vital signs. Activated charcoal may be considered. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Exposure in late pregnancy may increase the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). Escitalopram is excreted in human breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping MAOI therapy.
- Concomitant use with pimozide.
- Known hypersensitivity to escitalopram or citalopram.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Risk of serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability, mental status changes).
Pimozide
Increased pimozide levels and potential for QTc prolongation.
Warfarin
Altered coagulation; monitor INR.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of bleeding.
Other Serotonergic Drugs (e.g., Triptans, Tricyclic Antidepressants, Fentanyl, Lithium, Tramadol)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C), away from moisture and direct light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, tremor, nausea, vomiting, somnolence, tachycardia, hypotension, and seizures. Management is supportive: maintain airway, monitor cardiac and vital signs. Activated charcoal may be considered. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Exposure in late pregnancy may increase the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). 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
2-3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Patent expired, generics available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of escitalopram in the treatment of MDD and GAD. Ongoing research explores its use in other anxiety disorders and its pharmacogenomic implications.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine laboratory monitoring is typically required. Monitor serum sodium in elderly or volume-depleted patients due to risk of hyponatremia.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients regarding the delayed onset of therapeutic effects and the importance of continued adherence.
- Monitor for suicidality, especially at the initiation of therapy and during dose adjustments, particularly in younger patients.
- Advise patients on the importance of gradual tapering when discontinuing treatment to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
- Assess for concurrent use of other serotonergic agents to avoid serotonin syndrome.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking Lexapro abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to withdrawal symptoms.
- Report any worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual changes in mood or behavior to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
- This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness; exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.
- It may take several weeks to experience the full benefits of the medication.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Lexapro may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Patients should be advised to use caution until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Engage in regular physical activity to help manage mood and energy levels.
- Maintain a balanced diet and ensure adequate sleep.
- Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation or yoga.
- Limit caffeine intake.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Lexapro Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
