Escitalopram 10mg

Escitalopram 10mg — Uses and Benefits

Escitalopram 10mg is mainly used to treat depression and various anxiety disorders.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalised anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder, with or without fear of open spaces
• Social anxiety disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (in some cases, as decided by the doctor)

HOW IT WORKS

• It increases the levels of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain
• Higher serotonin levels help improve mood, reduce anxiety, and restore emotional balance
• It usually takes a few weeks of regular use before the full benefit is felt

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a quick-relief medicine for sudden panic attacks or acute stress
• It is not used for common sadness or short-term mood changes without a doctor's diagnosis
• It is not a sleeping pill, though sleep may improve as depression or anxiety improves
• It should not be used for children unless specifically advised by a specialist

How to Use Escitalopram 10mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, but try to take it at the same time every day
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms
• It may take several weeks to feel the full benefit, so continue taking it as advised even if you don't feel better immediately

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Escitalopram 10mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Increased sweating
• Difficulty sleeping
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Changes in appetite or weight
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Reduced sexual desire or difficulty in sexual performance
• Yawning
• Tremors

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or worsening depression, especially in young adults
• Signs of serotonin syndrome such as agitation, high fever, fast heartbeat, and muscle stiffness
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat, or skin rash
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Seizures
• Irregular heartbeat or fainting

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Escitalopram 10mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be taken only under a doctor's supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to escitalopram or any other SSRI
• Are currently taking or have recently taken MAO inhibitor medicines
• Have a known heart rhythm problem called QT prolongation

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of bipolar disorder, seizures, or bleeding disorders
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of suicidal thoughts or self-harm
• Are elderly, as sensitivity to side effects may be higher

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antidepressants or medicines that increase serotonin
• Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin
• NSAID pain relievers like ibuprofen
• Medicines for migraine (triptans)
• Certain antipsychotics or medicines affecting heart rhythm

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to work?

It usually takes two to four weeks of regular use to notice improvement in mood or anxiety.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

No, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms; your doctor will guide you on tapering the dose gradually.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

• Alcohol is best avoided as it can increase drowsiness and affect how the medicine works.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.