Escitalopram Oxalate

Generic Name

Escitalopram-Oxalate

Other Names

• Lexapro

Drug Class

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Chemical Formula

C20H21FN2O.C2H2O4

Molecular Weight

414.40 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

• Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin at the neuronal membrane

Indications

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Social anxiety disorder

Common Dosage Forms

• Tablet
• Oral solution

Typical Dosage

• 10-20 mg once daily, may increase to 20-40 mg/day if necessary

Pediatric Dosage

• Not recommended for children under 12 years old

Geriatric Dosage

• Use with caution, lower starting dosage often recommended

Side Effects

• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Sexual dysfunction

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to escitalopram
• Concurrent use with MAOIs

Pregnancy Category

• Category C

Lactation Safety

• Considered compatible with breastfeeding, monitor infant for drowsiness or poor feeding

Drug Interactions

• MAOIs, SNRIs, triptans, NSAIDs, warfarin

Overdose Symptoms

• Tremors
• Agitation
• Seizures
• Coma

Antidote for Overdose

• Activated charcoal, symptomatic treatment

Storage Conditions

• Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Well absorbed orally, peak plasma levels in 3-4 hours
• Distribution: Protein binding around 56%, widely distributed in body tissues
• Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites
• Excretion: Mainly excreted in urine (approx. 8% unchanged)

Precautions

• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children and young adults

Warnings

• May increase the risk of bleeding, caution in patients with bleeding disorders

Others

• May take several weeks to see full benefits