Escitalopram: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used to treat major depressive disorder in adults and adolescents aged twelve and older, and generalised anxiety disorder in adults. It requires a prescription in the United Kingdom. Generic versions have been available since March 2012.

Escitalopram is prescribed for major depressive disorder in adults and adolescents aged twelve years and older. It is also used to treat generalised anxiety disorder in adults. Major depressive disorder may involve persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, and difficulty concentrating.

Generalised anxiety disorder is characterised by excessive worry and anxiety that is difficult to control, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, and muscle tension. The medicine is not approved for children under seven years of age.

Escitalopram belongs to a class of medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Serotonin is a naturally occurring chemical messenger in the brain that helps regulate mood, anxiety, and other functions. After serotonin is released in the brain, it is normally taken back up into nerve cells through a process called reuptake.

Escitalopram works by blocking this reuptake process, which allows more serotonin to remain available in the spaces between nerve cells. This increase in available serotonin is thought to improve mood and reduce anxiety over time. The full benefit of escitalopram may take several weeks to develop.

The label lists 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets, as well as a 5 mg per 5 mL oral solution and 15 mg capsules. For major depressive disorder in adults, the usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, with a maximum of 20 mg once daily. For adolescents aged twelve and older with major depressive disorder, the usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, with a maximum of 20 mg once daily.

For generalised anxiety disorder in adults, the usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, with a maximum of 20 mg once daily. The label lists once-daily administration, morning or evening, with or without food. For elderly patients and those with liver impairment, the label lists 10 mg once daily as the usual dose.

If a dose is missed, it may usually be taken when remembered, unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling up on doses to make up for a missed dose is not advised.

Escitalopram is taken once daily, so maintaining a consistent routine helps ensure steady medicine levels. Patients who frequently forget doses or who have questions about what to do should speak with their pharmacist or prescriber for personalised advice.

Exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors during pregnancy, particularly late in pregnancy, has been associated with a less than two-fold increase in the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn and with poor neonatal adaptation. Neonates exposed late in the third trimester have developed complications including respiratory distress, temperature instability, feeding difficulties, low blood sugar, low or high muscle tone, tremor, and irritability. Use in the month before delivery may be associated with an increased risk of postpartum haemorrhage.

Women who discontinue antidepressants during pregnancy are more likely to experience relapse of depression. The decision to continue or stop escitalopram during pregnancy should be discussed with a doctor, weighing the risks of untreated depression against potential risks to the baby.

The label lists storage at 20 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius, with excursions permitted between 15 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius to maintain quality. Keep escitalopram tablets in their original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat, moisture, and light.

Do not use tablets past their expiry date. If unsure about storage conditions, consult the information on the label or ask a pharmacist.