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Drug Guide
 
 

Escitalopram

 
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  •  
    Oral
    Escitalopram
    Lexapro 

  • Mechanism of Action

  • Selectively inhibits the presynaptic serotonin (5-HT) transporter, resulting in reduced reuptake of serotonin and greater serotonin concentrations within the synapse.

Clinical Use

  • Indications
  • Depression
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder
  • Generalised anxiety disorder

  • Contraindications

  • Not for concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOi).
  • Adverse Effects
  • Insomnia
  • Drowsiness
  • Agitation
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Weight gain / loss
  • Nausea / vomiting / diarrhoea
  • Sexual dysfunction – decreased libido, ejaculatory disorders, erectile dysfunction
  • Serotonin syndrome (when SSRIs given with MAOis / SNRIs) – confusion, agitation, ataxia, hyperreflexia, fevers, diaphoresis
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