Escitalopram

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Joseph Blais, Pharmacist

Last updated on 22/03/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Escitalopram

CHINESE NAME: 依他普崙

BRAND NAME(S) IN HONG KONG: Lexapro 立普能錠, Esitalo, Esitapress, Neopra, Oxapro, Pramokline, Recita, Oropram

DRUG CLASS: Antidepressant, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

USED FOR: Major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder

OTHER DRUGS IN THE SAME CLASS: Citalopram, Fluoxetine, Fluvoxamine, Paroxetine, Sertraline

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS: 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 20mg (tablets)

What is Escitalopram for?

Escitalopram belongs to a class of medications called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI). It treats depression by selectively increasing the amount of a neurotransmitter called Serotonin that correlates with better mood and feelings of satisfaction and calmness. It is also used in many different psychological illnesses.

How to use it?

Escitalopram can be taken orally. For both depression and anxiety disorder, the usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, then gradually increased based on response up to 20 mg daily.

What are the side effects of Escitalopram?

Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, lowered interest in sex, and sleep disturbance.

Who should not take Escitalopram?

Anyone who has an allergy to Escitalopram or any other components of the drug.

Pharmacist Tips:

It might take a few weeks for Escitalopram to reach its full effect. Do not stop taking Escitalopram suddenly as you may suffer from withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea and dizziness.

Common dosing schedule:

Escitalopram can be taken with or without food.
Do not drink alcohol as it may worsen your mood or anxiety.

This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications that Escitalopram may interact with:

– Medications treating irregular heartbeat (e.g. amiodarone, sotalol)
– Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (e.g. selegiline, rasagiline)
– Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. diclofenac, ibuprofen)
– Antiplatelet medications (e.g. aspirin)

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medications, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Escitalopram in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Escitalopram is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk/

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Escitalopram in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.