Escitalopram 5mg

Escitalopram 5mg — Uses and Benefits

Escitalopram 5mg is mainly used to treat depression and various anxiety disorders.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of major depressive disorder
• Treatment of generalized anxiety disorder
• Treatment of panic disorder, with or without fear of open spaces
• Treatment of social anxiety disorder
• Sometimes used for obsessive-compulsive disorder as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Increases the availability of serotonin in the brain
• Serotonin helps regulate mood, emotions, and anxiety levels
• Improvement in symptoms may take a few weeks of regular use

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller for physical pain
• Not used for immediate relief of acute anxiety attacks
• Not a sleeping pill, though it may improve sleep once mood/anxiety improves
• Not recommended for children unless specifically advised by a specialist
• Not to be used for recreational purposes

How to Use Escitalopram 5mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Try to take it at the same time every day for consistent effect
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms
• It may take several weeks to feel the full benefit

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• Try to maintain a regular schedule to avoid missing doses

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
• Dispose of expired or unused medicine safely, not in household trash or drains

Escitalopram 5mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Fatigue

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Reduced appetite
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Changes in sexual desire or performance
• Yawning
• Tremors

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, especially in early treatment
• Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, or throat
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Seizures
• Signs of serotonin syndrome: agitation, rapid heartbeat, high fever, muscle stiffness
• Irregular heartbeat or fainting

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

Escitalopram 5mg — 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 citalopram
• Are currently taking or have recently taken MAO inhibitors
• Have a heart condition called long QT syndrome
• Are taking pimozide

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of bipolar disorder or mania
• Have a history of seizures
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Have a history of bleeding disorders
• 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
• Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin
• NSAID pain relievers like ibuprofen
• Triptans used for migraine
• Tramadol and certain other opioid painkillers
• Other medicines affecting heart rhythm

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to work?

Most people notice improvement in 2 to 4 weeks, though full benefit may take longer; continue taking it as prescribed even if you don't feel immediate change.

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?

• It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and affect your mood control.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.