Escitalopram Oxalate

Generic Name: escitalopram oxalate

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Escitalopram

Escitalopram oxalate tablets are a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) formulated as white to off-white, biconvex film-coated tablets available in 5 mg, 10 mg (scored), and 20 mg (scored) strengths.

Overview

Escitalopram oxalate tablets are a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) formulated as white to off-white, biconvex film-coated tablets available in 5 mg, 10 mg (scored), and 20 mg (scored) strengths.

Uses

Indicated for treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults.

Dosage

Administer orally once daily, morning or evening, with or without food. Standard dosage is 10 mg daily for most indications, with maximum of 20 mg daily. Reduce dose gradually when discontinuing.

Side Effects

Most common adverse reactions (5% or greater incidence, at least twice placebo rate): nausea, insomnia, ejaculation disorder, fatigue, somnolence, sweating, and decreased libido.

Interactions

Concomitant use with MAOIs increases serotonin syndrome risk. Caution with other serotonergic drugs, hemostasis-affecting agents (NSAIDs, warfarin), sumatriptan, and CYP2D6 substrates.

Warnings

Antidepressants increase risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients. Risk of serotonin syndrome with concurrent serotonergic agents. Discontinuation syndrome possible. Contraindicated with MAOIs (or within 14 days), pimozide, linezolid, intravenous methylene blue.

Pregnancy

SSRIs during pregnancy associated with persistent pulmonary hypertension risk and neonatal poor adaptation. Risk of increased postpartum hemorrhage with third-trimester exposure. Escitalopram detected in breast milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Escitalopram Oxalate used for?

Indicated for treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults.

What are the side effects of Escitalopram Oxalate?

Most common adverse reactions (5% or greater incidence, at least twice placebo rate): nausea, insomnia, ejaculation disorder, fatigue, somnolence, sweating, and decreased libido.

Can I take Escitalopram Oxalate during pregnancy?

SSRIs during pregnancy associated with persistent pulmonary hypertension risk and neonatal poor adaptation. Risk of increased postpartum hemorrhage with third-trimester exposure. Escitalopram detected in breast milk.

What are the important warnings for Escitalopram Oxalate?

Antidepressants increase risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients. Risk of serotonin syndrome with concurrent serotonergic agents. Discontinuation syndrome possible. Contraindicated with MAOIs (or within 14 days), pimozide, linezolid, intravenous methylene blue.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.