Escitalopram OX

Escitalopram belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This medication works by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in your brain, including serotonin, which helps reduce anxiety and improve mood.

Escitalopram belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. This medication works by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps control your mood. Some people use escitalopram to help relieve symptoms of anxiety. For others, it’s used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) or major depressive disorder with anxious distress.

The side effects of escitalopram are generally mild and may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. Common side effects include nausea, drowsiness, fatigue, changes in sex drive, and increased sweating. If you experience more serious side effects or any side effects that don’t disappear within 1-2 weeks while taking escitalopram, you should contact your provider immediately. You should seek medical care right away if you experience extreme drowsiness or suicidal thoughts while taking escitalopram.

It may take up to six weeks to see the full benefits of this medication. Most people notice an improvement in depression or anxiety symptoms within 1 to 4 weeks of beginning escitalopram. Your provider may start you on a low dose and gradually increase your dose, which may impact how long it takes to feel the full benefits of escitalopram. Talk to your provider should you decide to stop taking escitalopram. This medication should be tapered slowly to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Escitalopram should not be taken by anyone who is currently taking another SSRI or who has had an allergic reaction to escitalopram or other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the past. Allergic reactions are rare, but could occur with any SSRI medication. Escitalopram may also cause problems in newborns following delivery. Therefore, anyone who is pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or currently breastfeeding should not take escitalopram.

Escitalopram can be taken with many prescription medications. However, it can interact with several types of drugs, including MAOIs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, some supplements, antidepressants, and other SSRIs. If you are taking any supplements or prescription medications, it’s a good idea to check in with your provider before taking escitalopram.

Tell your provider if you have had any heart issues, high blood pressure, stroke, or liver or kidney disease. Since escitalopram can cause drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication, as it can increase drowsiness. Because escitalopram may cause problems in newborns, tell your provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.

Escitalopram is taken orally and should be taken around the same time daily with or without food. Over time, your provider may recommend a dosage increase, if necessary. You should always follow your provider's instructions when it comes to taking this medication.