Zolium
Generic Name
Escitalopram
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zolium 05 mg tablet | ৳ 3.40 | ৳ 34.00 |
| zolium 025 mg tablet | ৳ 2.00 | ৳ 20.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zolium (Escitalopram) is an antidepressant primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder: 10 mg once daily, may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg daily. For Panic Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder: Initial dose of 5 mg once daily, may be increased to 10 mg daily after one week.
Elderly
Consider a lower initial dose of 5 mg once daily and a lower maximum dose.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is generally required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Take orally, once daily, with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Escitalopram works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in the brain. This increases the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft, thereby enhancing serotonergic neurotransmission.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects usually seen within 2-4 weeks of initiation.
Excretion
Excreted through both renal and hepatic pathways.
Half life
Approximately 27-32 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, peak plasma concentrations typically reached within 4-5 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and CYP2D6 enzymes.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to escitalopram or any component
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI
- Congenital long QT syndrome or other conditions that prolong the QT interval
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Concomitant use can lead to serious, sometimes fatal, serotonin syndrome.
NSAIDs
Increased risk of bleeding, particularly gastrointestinal hemorrhage.
Triptans
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome when co-administered.
Warfarin
May potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring INR monitoring.
Other serotonergic drugs (e.g., other SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, St. John's Wort)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, tremor, nausea, vomiting, somnolence, tachycardia, and rarely, seizures or serotonin syndrome. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including maintaining a clear airway, monitoring cardiac and vital signs. Activated charcoal may be considered.
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; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to escitalopram or any component
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI
- Congenital long QT syndrome or other conditions that prolong the QT interval
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Concomitant use can lead to serious, sometimes fatal, serotonin syndrome.
NSAIDs
Increased risk of bleeding, particularly gastrointestinal hemorrhage.
Triptans
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome when co-administered.
Warfarin
May potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring INR monitoring.
Other serotonergic drugs (e.g., other SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, St. John's Wort)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, tremor, nausea, vomiting, somnolence, tachycardia, and rarely, seizures or serotonin syndrome. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including maintaining a clear airway, monitoring cardiac and vital signs. Activated charcoal may be considered.
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; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic versions available
Clinical Trials
Escitalopram has been extensively studied in numerous randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 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
- Monitor serum sodium levels, especially in elderly patients and those taking diuretics, due to the risk of hyponatremia.
- Liver function tests may be considered in patients with hepatic impairment.
- If co-administered with warfarin, monitor International Normalized Ratio (INR) regularly.
Doctor Notes
- Initiate at a low dose and titrate gradually to minimize side effects.
- Monitor for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual behavioral changes, especially at the beginning of treatment or after dose changes.
- Educate patients against abrupt discontinuation due to potential withdrawal symptoms (SSRI discontinuation syndrome).
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking Zolium abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
- It may take 2-4 weeks to feel the full effects of the medication.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment.
- Report any worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual changes in mood or behavior to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Zolium may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Patients should be advised to use caution when operating machinery or driving until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Engage in regular physical activity to improve mood.
- Maintain a balanced diet and adequate hydration.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques such such as meditation or mindfulness.
- Ensure adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night).
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 Zolium Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
