Brand Name
Cipralex
Common Name
escitalopram
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 02263238 | CIPRALEX 10MG TABLET |
| 02263254 | CIPRALEX 20MG TABLET |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Escitalopram belongs to the group of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It works by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter called serotonin in the brain. Increased serotonin levels can lead to an improved mood.
The medication usually begins to work within 2 to 4 weeks. However, it may take several weeks of treatment before the full effects are seen.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose is usually started at 10 mg daily, preferably at the same time each day. Escitalopram should be taken once daily in the morning or evening, with or without food. The dose can be increased by your doctor as needed to a maximum of 20 mg daily. In some cases, the doctor may recommend a 5 mg starting dose. The tablets should be swallowed whole (not chewed) with a glass of water.
Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
10 mg
Each film-coated, white, oval, scored tablet, marked with "EL" on one side, contains escitalopram 10 mg (as escitalopram oxalate). Nonmedicinal ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol 400, talc, and titanium dioxide (white E-171).
20 mg
Each film-coated, white, oval, scored tablet, marked with "EN" on one side, contains escitalopram 20 mg (as escitalopram oxalate). Nonmedicinal ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol 400, talc, and titanium dioxide (white E-171).
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Escitalopram should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to escitalopram, citalopram, or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is taking the medication pimozid
- has taken an MAO inhibitor medication (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine, moclobemide) in the past 2 weeks - MAO inhibitors should not be taken until at least 2 weeks after stopping treatment with escitalopram
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