Volant
Generic Name
Escitalopram Oxalate
Manufacturer
Hypothetical Pharma Co. Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| volant 25 mg capsule | ৳ 8.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Volant 25 mg Capsule contains Escitalopram Oxalate, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
The usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, increasing to 20 mg once daily after one week based on response. For the 25 mg capsule, a physician may prescribe it for specific cases or as a maintenance dose. Maximum recommended dose is typically 20 mg, but in some specific cases, up to 25 mg may be used under strict medical supervision.
Elderly
A starting dose of 5 mg once daily is recommended, maximum 10 mg per day. The 25 mg capsule is generally not recommended for elderly patients unless specifically advised by a physician.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is generally required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Caution is advised in severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min). Consultation with a physician is necessary.
How to Take
Take Volant 25 mg Capsule orally once daily, with or without food, preferably at the same time each day. Swallow the capsule whole with water; do not chew or crush it.
Mechanism of Action
Escitalopram selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) in the central nervous system, thereby increasing the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft and enhancing serotonergic neurotransmission. This action is believed to be responsible for its antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Initial antidepressant effects may be seen within 2-4 weeks, full effect within 4-6 weeks.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via urine (approximately 8% as unchanged drug, 20% as metabolites).
Half life
Approximately 27-32 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, peak plasma concentration reached in approximately 5 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4, CYP2C19, and CYP2D6 to inactive or weakly active metabolites.
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 acquired long QT syndrome.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Risk of serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability, mental status changes).
Triptans
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Warfarin
Altered anticoagulant effects, increased bleeding risk.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Linezolid, Methylene Blue
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Tricyclic antidepressants, Lithium
Increased levels and effects of these drugs.
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, agitation, somnolence, tachycardia, hypotension, and rarely, serotonin syndrome or convulsions. Management is primarily symptomatic and supportive; maintain an open airway, monitor cardiac and vital signs, and provide general supportive measures. 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. Escitalopram is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman. Consult a doctor.
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 acquired long QT syndrome.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Risk of serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability, mental status changes).
Triptans
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Warfarin
Altered anticoagulant effects, increased bleeding risk.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Linezolid, Methylene Blue
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Tricyclic antidepressants, Lithium
Increased levels and effects of these drugs.
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, agitation, somnolence, tachycardia, hypotension, and rarely, serotonin syndrome or convulsions. Management is primarily symptomatic and supportive; maintain an open airway, monitor cardiac and vital signs, and provide general supportive measures. 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. Escitalopram is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman. Consult a doctor.
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 major regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Generic versions available
Clinical Trials
Escitalopram has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in various depressive and anxiety disorders.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine laboratory monitoring is required for healthy individuals.
- Monitor electrolyte levels (especially sodium) in patients at risk of hyponatremia.
- Liver and kidney function tests may be considered in patients with pre-existing impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Assess for suicidal ideation, especially at initiation and during dose adjustments.
- Advise patients on the importance of adherence and not discontinuing abruptly.
- Monitor for serotonin syndrome when co-administering with other serotonergic agents.
- Caution in patients with cardiac conditions due to potential for QT prolongation.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for gradual dose reduction.
- It may take several weeks to experience the full benefits. Continue treatment even if you don't feel immediate improvement.
- Report any new or worsening symptoms, especially mood changes 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 almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Volant 25 mg Capsule may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired concentration. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption as it may worsen side effects and impair judgment.
- Engage in regular physical activity and maintain a balanced diet to support overall mental and physical well-being.
- Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation or yoga.
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