Escitalopram 15mg

Escitalopram 15mg — Uses and Benefits

Escitalopram 15mg is mainly used to treat depression and anxiety-related conditions.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of major depressive disorder
• Treatment of generalised anxiety disorder
• Treatment of panic disorder
• Treatment of social anxiety disorder
• Treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

HOW IT WORKS

• It increases the level of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain that helps regulate mood
• Over time, this helps improve mood, reduce anxiety, and restore normal sleep and appetite patterns
• It may take several weeks of regular use before the full benefit is noticed

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a quick-fix or one-time pain relief medicine
• It is not used for sudden mood swings that need instant relief
• It is not a sedative or sleeping pill, though it may improve sleep indirectly
• It should not be used casually for stress without a doctor's assessment
• It is not suitable for children unless specifically prescribed by a specialist

How to Use Escitalopram 15mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, at the same time each day
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms
• It may take a few weeks before you notice improvement, so continue taking it 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 one and continue your regular schedule
• 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 and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Dispose of unused medicine safely, do not flush down the drain

Escitalopram 15mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Reduced appetite
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Dizziness
• Yawning
• Changes in sexual desire or performance
• Weight changes

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, especially in the first few weeks
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, or difficulty breathing
• Signs of serotonin syndrome such as high fever, agitation, rapid heartbeat, muscle stiffness
• Seizures or fits
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe mood changes, confusion, or hallucinations

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

Escitalopram 15mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to escitalopram or any other SSRI
• Are currently taking, or have recently stopped, MAOI antidepressants
• Have a rare heart condition called long QT syndrome

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of bipolar disorder or mania
• Have a history of bleeding disorders
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Have epilepsy or a history of seizures
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of suicidal thoughts or self-harm
• Have low sodium levels in the blood

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antidepressants, including MAOIs and other SSRIs
• Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin
• NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen
• Triptans used for migraine
• Tramadol and certain other pain medicines
• Medicines that affect heart rhythm
• St. John's Wort or other herbal mood supplements

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and worsen side effects.

How long will I need to take this medicine?

Treatment duration varies by individual and condition; your doctor will decide based on your response.

Will this medicine make me feel sleepy during the day?

• Some people feel mild drowsiness initially, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.