Xevon
Generic Name
Escitalopram
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| xevon 20 mg tablet | ৳ 7.00 | ৳ 70.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Xevon 20 mg tablet contains Escitalopram, an antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Major Depressive Disorder: Initially 10 mg once daily, may increase to 20 mg once daily after one week based on response. Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Initially 10 mg once daily, may increase to 20 mg once daily after one week. Maximum 20 mg/day for most indications.
Elderly
Lower starting dose, usually 5 mg once daily, maximum 10 mg/day due to reduced clearance.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe impairment.
How to Take
Take orally once daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or break it.
Mechanism of Action
Escitalopram works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, thereby increasing the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft, which helps to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Initial effects may be noticed in 1-2 weeks, full therapeutic effects typically take 4-6 weeks.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in urine (metabolites) and feces. Less than 10% excreted as unchanged drug.
Half life
Approximately 27-32 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, unaffected by food. Peak plasma concentration reached in approximately 5 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver primarily by CYP2C19 and CYP3A4, with minor contribution from CYP2D6.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, citalopram, or any component of the formulation
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy
- Concomitant use with Pimozide
- Congenital long QT syndrome or acquired long QT syndrome
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Concomitant use is contraindicated due to increased risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal.
Pimozide
Concomitant use is contraindicated due to increased risk of QT interval prolongation.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Warfarin and other anticoagulants
Increased risk of bleeding; monitor INR carefully.
Serotonergic drugs (e.g., Triptans, Tramadol, other SSRIs)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of sight and reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, tremor, nausea, vomiting, somnolence, tachycardia, hypotension, seizures, and rarely, serotonin syndrome or QT prolongation. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, with 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 into breast milk; breastfeeding is generally not recommended.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to escitalopram, citalopram, or any component of the formulation
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy
- Concomitant use with Pimozide
- Congenital long QT syndrome or acquired long QT syndrome
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Concomitant use is contraindicated due to increased risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal.
Pimozide
Concomitant use is contraindicated due to increased risk of QT interval prolongation.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Warfarin and other anticoagulants
Increased risk of bleeding; monitor INR carefully.
Serotonergic drugs (e.g., Triptans, Tramadol, other SSRIs)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of sight and reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, tremor, nausea, vomiting, somnolence, tachycardia, hypotension, seizures, and rarely, serotonin syndrome or QT prolongation. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, with 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 into breast milk; breastfeeding is generally not recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
3 years from the date of manufacturing when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA (USA) and DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic versions available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of escitalopram for the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and other approved indications in adults.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor serum sodium levels, especially in elderly patients or those on diuretics, due to risk of hyponatremia.
- Liver function tests may be considered in patients with hepatic impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on potential delayed onset of action and the importance of continued adherence to therapy.
- Educate patients about the risks of discontinuation syndrome and proper tapering protocols.
- Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome, especially if co-administered with other serotonergic agents.
- Assess for suicidal ideation, particularly at the initiation of treatment and during dose adjustments.
Patient Guidelines
- Take medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor; do not stop abruptly.
- Report any suicidal thoughts, worsening depression, or unusual behavior changes immediately.
- Avoid alcohol consumption while on this medication.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Xevon may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects your ability to perform such tasks safely.
Lifestyle Advice
- Regular exercise can complement antidepressant therapy and improve mood.
- Maintain a balanced diet and adequate sleep to support overall well-being.
- Engage in stress management techniques like meditation or yoga.
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Global Brand Names
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