Escitalopram important information

Escitalopram is a prescription medication classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is commonly prescribed for major depressive disorder (depression) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and may be used for other conditions as determined by a licensed healthcare provider. As with all prescription medications, escitalopram may not be appropriate for everyone. For full prescribing information, view the drug label information.

Before using Escitalopram, what should I tell my doctor?

Before starting escitalopram, tell your healthcare provider all relevant medical information, including but not limited to:

• All medical conditions you have or have had, especially:

• • Bipolar disorder or a history of mania or hypomania
  • Seizures or epilepsy
  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Heart rhythm conditions (including “long QT,” prior fainting episodes, or known arrhythmias)
  • Low sodium (hyponatremia) or conditions/medications that may cause low sodium
  • Bleeding problems or easy bruising
  • Glaucoma, especially narrow-angle glaucoma
• All medications you are currently taking or plan to take, including:
• • Prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter drugs
  • Vitamins and supplements
  • Herbal products (especially St. John’s wort)
  • Other antidepressants or psychiatric medications
• Any allergies or prior adverse reactions, including reactions to escitalopram, citalopram, or other SSRIs
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding status
• • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Tell your provider if you have had suicidal thoughts, self-harm behaviors, severe anxiety/agitation, or significant mood changes.
• If you consume alcohol or use recreational drugs, as these may interact with escitalopram

What are some of the side effects of this drug?

Some side effects are common and often mild, especially when starting escitalopram or after dose changes. These may include:

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Increased sweating
• Restlessness or feeling “keyed up”
• Appetite or weight changes
• Sexual side effects (e.g., decreased libido, difficulty with arousal, delayed ejaculation, difficulty achieving orgasm)

Many side effects improve as your body adjusts. If side effects persist, worsen, or interfere with daily functioning, contact your healthcare provider.

What are side effects I should call my doctor about right away?

Seek urgent medical attention or contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience:

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or new/worsening depression
• New or worsening anxiety, agitation, panic, irritability, aggression, or impulsive behavior
• Mania/hypomania symptoms, such as:
• • Unusually elevated or irritable mood
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Racing thoughts, risky behavior, or unusually increased activity/talking
• Signs of serotonin syndrome, which may include:
• • High fever
  • Confusion, agitation
  • Rapid heart rate, blood pressure changes
  • Muscle stiffness, twitching, tremor, loss of coordination
  • Heavy sweating
  • Diarrhea
• Severe allergic reactions, such as:
• • Rash or hives
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Abnormal bleeding or bruising, or black/tarry stools, vomiting blood
• Severe dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat
• Severe headache, eye pain, vision changes, or eye redness/swelling (possible glaucoma emergency)
• Symptoms of low sodium, such as:
• • Headache, confusion, weakness
  • Severe fatigue, unsteadiness, or seizures

These symptoms may indicate serious or life-threatening reactions and require prompt evaluation.

Important safety information

• Suicidality risk: Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults, particularly early in treatment or after dose changes. Monitoring is important.
• Do not stop abruptly: Stopping escitalopram suddenly may cause discontinuation symptoms (e.g., dizziness, nausea, irritability, insomnia, “electric shock” sensations). Tapering should be supervised by a clinician.
• Drug interactions: Escitalopram can interact with other medications and supplements (including serotonergic agents), increasing the risk of serious side effects.
• Heart rhythm: Escitalopram may affect heart rhythm in some people, particularly at higher doses or in those with risk factors (e.g., long QT, electrolyte abnormalities, certain other medications).
• Alcohol and impairment: Alcohol may worsen side effects. Use caution with driving or hazardous activities until you know how escitalopram affects you.

Do not take Escitalopram if you

• Are allergic to escitalopram, citalopram, or any ingredient in the medication
• Are taking (or have taken within the last 14 days) a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Are taking linezolid or intravenous methylene blue (risk of serotonin syndrome), unless specifically directed and monitored by a clinician
• Have been told by a licensed healthcare professional that you should not take SSRIs

Important Notice


 This content is for general informational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your licensed healthcare provider. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.