Escitalopram Oxalate 5 mg

Escitalopram Oxalate 5 mg — Uses and Benefits

Escitalopram Oxalate 5 mg is mainly prescribed for the treatment of depression and various anxiety disorders. It helps improve mood, sleep, energy levels, and reduce feelings of nervousness or panic.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalised anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (in some cases, as advised by doctor)

HOW IT WORKS

• It increases the level of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain that helps maintain mental balance
• Improved serotonin activity helps reduce symptoms of low mood, worry, and fear
• It may take a few weeks of regular use before full benefit is felt

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat physical pain
• It is not meant for sudden mood swings or occasional stress
• It is not a sleeping pill, though it may improve sleep indirectly by treating depression
• It should not be used for conditions not advised by your doctor

How to Use Escitalopram Oxalate 5 mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

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

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

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

STORAGE

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

Escitalopram Oxalate 5 mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Headache
• Sweating

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Reduced appetite
• Sleep disturbances
• Yawning
• Mild dizziness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, especially in early treatment
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Irregular heartbeat or fainting
• Severe agitation, high fever, confusion (signs of serotonin syndrome)

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

Escitalopram Oxalate 5 mg — Safety Information and Precautions

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

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to escitalopram or any other SSRI medicine
• Are currently taking MAO inhibitors or have stopped them within the last 14 days
• Have a rare heart condition called QT prolongation

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of bipolar disorder, seizures, or bleeding problems
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of suicidal thoughts or self-harm
• Are taking other medicines that affect serotonin levels

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antidepressants or medicines affecting serotonin (risk of serotonin syndrome)
• Blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin (increased bleeding risk)
• NSAIDs (pain relievers like ibuprofen)
• Medicines for migraine (triptans)
• Certain antibiotics or antifungals affecting heart rhythm

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking this medicine 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 other side effects.

How long does it take to work?

• It may take two to four weeks of regular use to notice significant improvement in mood or anxiety symptoms.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.