Escitalopram

Escitalopram (Escitalopram Oxalate) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) which treats major depressive disorder and anxiety. It works by enhancing the activity of the neurotransmitter serotonin. This can help to relieve symptoms of depression, including low moods, a loss of interest in everyday life, appetite problems, sleep disturbances, low energy levels and negative emotions. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the reuptake of 5-HT (serotonin), which in turn leads to an increase in the concentration of serotonin in the brain. Resulting from this increased serotonergic activity, the negative effects on the mood, appetite and energy levels caused by depression can be relieved.

Escitalopram (Escitalopram Oxalate) comes as either 10mg or 20mg strength tablets for oral administration. Always use this as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Adults treating depression or generalized anxiety disorder may be instructed by their physician to administer 10mg per day. If the physician in charge of treatment decides that it is needed, the dosage may be increased to 20mg per day after 1 week of treatment. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated. Never take more than the amount your doctor prescribes to you.

Use of Escitalopram (Escitalopram Oxalate) may result in some patients suffering from unwanted side effects caused by the medicine. Listed here are some examples:

• Weight gain
• Libido changes
• Delayed ejaculation
• Eating more than is usual
• Vertigo and a fatigued feeling

Certain side effects are serious, and will require immediate medical attention. These include hallucinations, fever, abnormal thoughts or behavior, extreme feelings of excitement, slurring of speech and various other severe adverse events which are not referenced here.

Withdrawal symptoms can occur if treatment is suddenly stopped, especially if the patient has been taking it for an extended period of time. Your physician will provide specific instructions on how to minimize or avoid this, which may include gradual tapering of the dosage before complete cessation of treatment.

Escitalopram (Escitalopram Oxalate) may cause unexpected changes to the mood and mental health in rare cases, which may possibly result in suicidal thoughts. If your symptoms worsen at any time, call your physician immediately.

Should you need to have any surgery performed (including dental procedures), notify the dentist or physician in advance that you are currently undergoing treatment with this medication.