ESCITALOPRAM

This medicine contains the active ingredient escitalopram. Escitalopram belongs to a group of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medicines which are Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) help the brain cells to produce higher amount of a chemical serotonin which makes us feel happy and satisfied. Escitalopram is prescribed for the treatment of depression or anxiety.

Is Escitalopram suitable for me?

Escitalopram is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to escitalopram or any of the other ingredients of this medicine
• if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including moclobemide, selegiline and linezolid.
• if you have arrhythmia
• if you have heart problems and you are taking medicines for it

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• have angina or other heart problems, or have had a heart attack
• have liver or kidney problems.
• have epilepsy.
• have diabetes.
• have glaucoma (increased pressure in your eye).
• have ever had a bleeding disorder.
• have a decreased level of sodium in the blood.
• are being treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
• are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Escitalopram interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Escitalopram?

This medicine is available in form of a film-coated tablet.

You should take escitalopram exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

• The usual dose is 10 mg taken once a day.
• The maximum recommended dose is 20 mg taken once a day.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Escitalopram side effects?

Like all medicines escitalopram can cause side effects, including:

Very common:

• feeling sleepy 
• trouble sleeping
• headache
• feeling weak, tired
• increased sweating
• dry mouth
• feeling sick

Common:

• lack of appetite, weight loss
• decreased sex drive or ability
• anxiety, nervousness, confusion, apathy
• tremor
• tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
• feeling dizzy 
• problems with concentration and memory
• palpitations
• blocked or runny nose (rhinitis)
• diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, flatulence
• pain in muscles and joints

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.