How should Lexapro be taken for optimal results. When is the best time of day to take escitalopram. Can Lexapro be taken with or without food. What dosage of Lexapro is typically prescribed. How long does it take for Lexapro to start working.

Understanding Lexapro (Escitalopram): Mechanism of Action and Uses

Lexapro, known generically as escitalopram, is a widely prescribed antidepressant medication belonging to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter crucial for mood regulation and mental balance.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Lexapro for treating:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adults and children 12 years and older
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in adults

Healthcare professionals may also prescribe Lexapro off-label for other mental health conditions, showcasing its versatility in addressing various psychiatric disorders.

Optimal Dosage and Administration of Lexapro

The appropriate Lexapro dosage varies depending on the individual’s condition, age, and response to treatment. Typically, doctors start with a lower dose and gradually increase it if necessary.

Standard Lexapro Dosages:

• For adults with MDD or GAD: Usually 10mg once daily, which may be increased to a maximum of 20mg daily
• For adolescents (12-17 years) with MDD: Starting dose is often 10mg once daily
• For patients with liver problems: Maximum recommended dose is 10mg daily

Is it possible to adjust Lexapro dosage? Yes, under medical supervision, dosages can be adjusted based on the patient’s response and tolerance. It’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not alter it without consulting a healthcare provider.

Best Time to Take Lexapro: Morning or Night?

Determining the optimal time to take Lexapro can significantly impact its effectiveness and side effect profile. While Lexapro can be taken at any time of day, consistency is key.

Factors to consider when deciding the best time to take Lexapro:

1. Side effects: If Lexapro causes drowsiness, taking it at night might be preferable
2. Sleep patterns: For those experiencing insomnia as a side effect, morning dosing may be better
3. Daily routine: Choose a time that aligns with your schedule to ensure consistent dosing

Do you have to take Lexapro at the exact same time every day? While strict timing isn’t necessary, taking Lexapro at approximately the same time daily can help maintain consistent blood levels and maximize its therapeutic effects.

Taking Lexapro with Food: Does It Matter?

One common question among Lexapro users is whether the medication should be taken with food. The good news is that Lexapro can be taken with or without food, offering flexibility in administration.

However, some individuals may find that taking Lexapro with food helps minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea or upset stomach. If you experience these issues, try taking your dose with a meal or snack to see if it helps.

Can drinking water with Lexapro affect its absorption? No, drinking water with Lexapro does not impact its absorption. In fact, it’s recommended to take Lexapro with a full glass of water to aid in swallowing and potentially reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation.

Lexapro’s Onset of Action: What to Expect

Understanding the timeline for Lexapro’s effects can help manage expectations and ensure patient adherence to treatment.

Typical Timeline for Lexapro’s Effects:

• 1-2 weeks: Some patients may notice initial improvements in sleep, appetite, or energy levels
• 4-6 weeks: Most patients experience significant improvements in mood and anxiety symptoms
• 8-12 weeks: Full therapeutic effects are usually realized

Why does Lexapro take time to work? SSRIs like Lexapro work by gradually altering brain chemistry, which is not an instantaneous process. The brain needs time to adjust to the increased serotonin levels and create new neural pathways.

It’s crucial to continue taking Lexapro as prescribed, even if you don’t notice immediate improvements. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Managing Lexapro Side Effects: Tips and Strategies

While Lexapro is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects, especially during the initial weeks of treatment. Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Insomnia
• Sexual dysfunction
• Headache

How can you minimize Lexapro side effects? Here are some strategies:

1. Take Lexapro with food if you experience nausea
2. Stay hydrated to combat dry mouth
3. Adjust the timing of your dose if you experience drowsiness or insomnia
4. Engage in regular exercise to boost energy levels and improve sleep quality
5. Discuss persistent or severe side effects with your healthcare provider

Remember, many side effects tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

Lexapro Interactions: Medications and Substances to Avoid

Lexapro can interact with various medications and substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and substances you use.

Common Interactions to Be Aware Of:

• Other SSRIs or SNRIs: Combining these can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome
• MAOIs: These should not be taken with Lexapro due to the risk of serious reactions
• NSAIDs: May increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Lexapro
• Alcohol: Can intensify the sedative effects of Lexapro
• St. John’s Wort: May interact with Lexapro and affect its efficacy

Is it safe to take over-the-counter pain relievers with Lexapro? While occasional use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally considered safe, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider before regularly combining any medications with Lexapro.

Discontinuing Lexapro: The Importance of Gradual Tapering

When the time comes to stop taking Lexapro, it’s crucial to do so under medical supervision and through a gradual tapering process. Abruptly stopping Lexapro can lead to discontinuation syndrome, characterized by various uncomfortable symptoms.

Potential Discontinuation Symptoms:

• Dizziness
• Flu-like symptoms
• Irritability
• Anxiety or agitation
• Sensory disturbances (e.g., electric shock sensations)
• Sleep disturbances

How long does it take to taper off Lexapro? The tapering process can vary depending on your current dosage, how long you’ve been taking Lexapro, and individual factors. Typically, tapering may take several weeks to months.

Your healthcare provider will create a personalized tapering plan, gradually reducing your dosage over time. This approach minimizes the risk of discontinuation symptoms and allows your brain to adjust to decreasing levels of the medication.

Never attempt to stop taking Lexapro on your own. Always consult with your healthcare provider to develop a safe and effective discontinuation plan.

Special Considerations for Lexapro Use

While Lexapro is generally safe and effective for many individuals, there are certain populations and situations that require special consideration:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

The use of Lexapro during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully evaluated. While some studies suggest potential risks to the fetus or infant, untreated depression also carries risks. Your healthcare provider will weigh the benefits and risks to determine the best course of action.

Elderly Patients:

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Lexapro and may require lower doses. They may also be at increased risk for certain side effects, such as hyponatremia (low sodium levels).

Patients with Liver or Kidney Problems:

Individuals with impaired liver or kidney function may require dose adjustments. The maximum recommended dose for patients with liver problems is typically 10mg daily.

Adolescents:

While Lexapro is approved for use in adolescents with MDD, close monitoring is essential due to the potential increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in this age group.

Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Lexapro? Generally, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Lexapro. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support overall mental health and potentially help manage side effects.

It’s crucial to provide your healthcare provider with a complete medical history and list of current medications to ensure safe and effective use of Lexapro.

Maximizing the Benefits of Lexapro: Lifestyle and Self-Care Strategies

While Lexapro can be an effective treatment for depression and anxiety, combining medication with lifestyle changes and self-care strategies can enhance its benefits and promote overall mental well-being.

Complementary Approaches to Consider:

• Regular exercise: Physical activity can boost mood and reduce stress
• Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients supports brain health
• Adequate sleep: Prioritize good sleep hygiene for better mental health
• Stress management: Techniques like meditation or yoga can help manage stress
• Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of psychotherapy can complement medication treatment
• Social support: Maintaining connections with friends and family can provide emotional support

How can you track your progress while taking Lexapro? Consider keeping a mood journal to monitor your symptoms, side effects, and overall well-being. This can help you and your healthcare provider assess the effectiveness of your treatment and make any necessary adjustments.

Remember, Lexapro is just one part of a comprehensive approach to managing depression or anxiety. By incorporating these lifestyle strategies, you can maximize the benefits of your medication and work towards improved mental health.

In conclusion, understanding how to take Lexapro effectively, managing potential side effects, and being aware of important considerations can help ensure the best possible outcomes from your treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and never hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns about your medication regimen.

How and when to take escitalopram

Take escitalopram exactly as your doctor tells you, and follow the directions on the label. If you’re not sure, check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Dosage and strength

Escitalopram tablets come in different strengths ranging from 5mg to 20mg.

The usual dose of escitalopram is 10mg a day. But your doctor may start you on a lower dose and increase it to a maximum dose of 20mg a day.

If you have liver problems, the maximum recommended dose is 10mg a day.

With liquid drops, 1 drop is equivalent to 1mg of escitalopram, 10 drops is 10mg, and 20 drops is 20mg.

How to take it

Take escitalopram once a day. You can take it with or without food.

You can take escitalopram at any time of day, as long as you stick to the same time every day.

If you have trouble sleeping, it’s best to take it in the morning.

How long to take it for

Once you’re feeling better it’s likely that you’ll keep taking escitalopram for several more months to prevent the symptoms returning.

The decision to stop your treatment or carry on will depend on what symptoms you have and how serious they are. It will also depend on whether it’s a one-off problem or one that keeps coming back, how well escitalopram works for you, and whether you have had any bad side effects.

If you forget to take it

If you forget to take a dose and remember before you go to bed, take it straight away. Carry on as usual the next day.

If you only remember during the night or the next day, leave out the missed dose and carry on as usual.

Do not take a double dose to make up for forgotten doses.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

Stopping escitalopram

If you have been feeling better for 6 months or more, your doctor may suggest coming off escitalopram.

Your doctor will probably recommend reducing your dose gradually over several weeks, or longer if you have been taking escitalopram for a long time.

This is to help prevent any withdrawal side effects you might get as a reaction to coming off the medicine. These can include:

• dizziness
• feeling sick
• numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• trouble sleeping
• feeling agitated or anxious
• headaches
• shaking

Important

Do not stop taking escitalopram suddenly or without talking to your doctor first.

If you take too much

The amount of escitalopram that can lead to an overdose varies from person to person.

Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:

• you take more than your prescribed dose of escitalopram

Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111

If you need to go to A&E, do not drive yourself. Get someone else to drive you or call for an ambulance.

Take the escitalopram packet or the leaflet inside it, plus any remaining medicine, with you.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:

Page last reviewed: 24 February 2022

Next review due: 24 February 2025

Best Time of Day to Take Lexapro and Other Tips

Written by
Juhi Modi

Medically reviewed by
HaVy Ngo-Hamilton, Pharm. D.
| Dec 08, 2022

Lexapro (generic drug escitalopram) is an antidepressant medication used to treat generalized anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder in adults and children 12 years of age and older. 

In this article, we will discuss some important tips for taking Lexapro, including the best time to take it, possible side effects, interactions with other medications, and more.

What is Lexapro? How does it work?

Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) belongs to a group of antidepressant medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). They are prescription drugs available in oral dosage forms, including tablets and oral solutions. 

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the central nervous system. Serotonin is a natural substance that plays a key role in mood regulation and mental balance.

A healthcare professional may prescribe an SSRI to treat a wide variety of mental health conditions. Lexapro is FDA-approved to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and children 12 years and older. Lexapro is also indicated for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults.

In addition to MDD and GAD, Lexapro has been used off-label for the following conditions: panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), binge eating disorder such as bulimia nervosa, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Not commonly known, Lexapro is used off-label to prevent depression in stroke survivors.

What is the antidepressant medication Lexapro used to treat? 

Lexapro is used to treat depression and anxiety. It may also be used off-label to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and vasomotor symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats, among other off-label uses discussed above.  

What is the usual Lexapro dose?

Lexapro is available as a tablet and oral solution (liquid) to take by mouth. Lexapro dosage depends on the condition and demographic (adult vs. pediatric). However, the  average dose of Lexapro is 10 mg by mouth once daily. The maximum recommended dose is typically 20 mg per day, though it can be a lot higher; for example, the dose can be increased up to 60 mg daily to treat patients with OCD who did not respond to the lower dose after 8 weeks, as long as they can tolerate the medication. Your doctor may start you on a lower dose and increase the prescribed dose after one week. 

When should you take Lexapro?

You can take Lexapro in the morning or evening, with or without food. This medication is usually taken once a day. Try to take Lexapro at around the same time every day. This will help you remember to take it. Not everyone has sleeping problems with Lexapro or other SSRIs, but If you experience trouble falling asleep, you should set up a reminder on your phone or use a pill organizer.  

Take Lexapro exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. Do not take more or less of the medication or take it more or less frequently than prescribed.

Keep in mind that it can take up to 6 to 8 weeks to experience the full effects of Lexapro. However, some people may notice an improvement in your mood and depression symptoms after 1 to 2 weeks. Inform your doctor if you notice worsening symptoms of depression during Lexapro (escitalopram) treatment. Do not stop taking escitalopram suddenly—this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Why should you take Lexapro in the morning?

You should take Lexapro in the morning if you have trouble sleeping while on this medicine. If this is the case and you take Lexapro at bedtime, it may cause insomnia. On the other hand, if Lexapro does not affect your sleep, you can take it at any time of the day. Try to stick to the same time every day for the best results.   

Does Lexapro work better at night?

Lexapro may or may not work better at night. In some people, antidepressants, especially SSRIs like Lexapro, can cause insomnia (inability to fall asleep or stay asleep). On the other hand, in some people, Lexapro and other antidepressants may  help with insomnia symptoms. 

Some randomized controlled trials have found that perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with hot flashes benefit from Lexapro. By improving vasomotor symptoms, Lexapro may improve sleep quality in postmenopausal women. Lexapro has also been found to reduce sleep problems in some people with major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.

Approximately 75% of adults with depression symptoms suffer from insomnia. Therefore, if you are on Lexapro and are experiencing sleep problems, Lexapro may be the culprit. However, it is best to discuss your sleep problems with your doctor as soon as possible since medical conditions causing anxiety and depressed mood can also cause insomnia.  

It may take trial and error to see how Lexapro affects you to determine what time of the day is best to take this medicine. If this medicine causes insomnia, try taking it in the morning. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about different tips for switching Lexapro from night to morning.

Rest assured that there are different options for SSRIs and SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), so you can discuss their risks and benefits with your doctor. SNRIs are another class of antidepressants that are closely related to SSRIs. Lexapro, among other SSRIs, is effective and well-tolerated by most people. However, keep in mind that maintaining a healthful lifestyle, along with taking medications regularly, is essential for the best treatment outcomes.  

What are the possible side effects of Lexapro?

Common side effects of Lexapro include:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea (extremely common), diarrhea, and constipation
• Dry mouth, increased thirst, increased sweating 
• Insomnia
• Drowsiness, dizziness, unusual tiredness
• Yawning
• Shaky feelings due to increased muscle movements
• Decreased appetite and weight loss
• Runny nose, sneezing, flu-like symptoms
• Decreased sex drive, and impotence in men

Tell your doctor if these side effects are severe or do not go away in a few days. Contact your doctor without delay. You should seek emergency medical attention if you develop signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, hives, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing and swallowing. 

How to have the best results while taking Lexapro?

Here are some tips on the safe use of Lexapro:

Best Time of Day to Take Lexapro

You can take Lexapro in the morning or evening; however, if you are having trouble sleeping while on this medicine, it may help to take it in the morning. 

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Lexapro, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the amount to make up for a missed one.

To have the best outcomes, you should take this medication regularly. Also, keep in mind that it may take up to 8 weeks for Lexapro to have the complete effects; therefore, you should not discontinue after one week without consulting your healthcare provider.

Side Effects

Lexapro can make you dizzy and drowsy and may affect your movements, thinking, and judgment. Do not drive or operate hazardous machinery. You should wait until you know how this medication affects you to perform any activity that requires focus and mental alertness. Remember that alcohol can worsen the drowsiness side effect caused by this medication.

Medical Conditions

Taking Lexapro may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions. To make sure Lexapro is safe for you, tell your healthcare professional if you have ever had  

heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, recent stroke, high blood pressure, glaucoma, seizures, sexual dysfunction, and bleeding disorders. Discuss with your doctor if you have a history of suicidal thoughts and drug addiction or misuse of pain medications.

Your healthcare provider will perform the bipolar disorder screening before starting Lexapro. Bipolar disorder can initially present with depressive symptoms. Even though there is no well-established data, for patients presenting with depression due to bipolar disorder and those at high risk of bipolar disorder, it is believed that starting Lexapro on these patients may precipitate mixed or manic episodes.

Drug Interactions

Lexapro can interact with other medications and lead to serious adverse effects. Drug interactions can reduce the efficacy of medications or intensify their side effects. 

Serotonin syndrome is a concern caused by interactions between Lexapro and other drugs. Give your doctor a complete list of your medications, including prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements, to avoid dangerous drug interactions.

You should not take Lexapro if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor within 14 days before or 14 days after. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are serotonergic drugs, meaning they can affect the serotonin levels in the body. Combining Lexapro and an MAOI can lead to serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal if left untreated. The following MAO inhibitors are approved to treat depression: isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Emsam), and tranylcypromine (Parnate). Linezolid is an MAO inhibitor that is used to treat infection. 

Avoid taking Lexapro if you are taking citalopram (Celexa) or pimozide — this is also applied to other SSRIs and SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors).  

Seek medical attention right away if you have symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, twitching, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Other medications to watch out for are blood thinners such as warfarin and any medications that can make you drowsy; examples are opioid pain medicines, anxiety and sleep medications, treatment for seizures, and muscle relaxers.    

Withdrawal Symptoms

Do not stop taking Lexapro suddenly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to lower the dose of Lexapro slowly. Remember, it can take up to 8  weeks to get the full benefits of Lexapro. Tell your doctor if you do not notice any improvement in your mood after this time period.

Suicidal Thoughts

People taking antidepressant medications, especially young adults between the age of 18 and 24, can develop suicidal thinking and actions. Children under 18 are also at risk. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any sudden changes in mood or suicidal thoughts. Make sure your family members know to contact your doctor if you are unable to seek care for yourself.

Serotonin Syndrome

Taking Lexapro can put you at risk of a rare but potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome (too much serotonin in the body). The risk is higher if you are taking other medications that can also increase serotonin levels; some drug classes to watch out for are discussed above. Signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome include fever, confusion, fast heart rate, sweating, and muscle spasms or stiffness. Seek emergency medical care if you develop these symptoms. 

Use During Pregnancy

Lexapro can cause problems in newborn babies, especially if taken during the last few months of the pregnancy. Before starting this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

References:

1. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603005.html
2. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021323s047lbl.pdf
3. https://reference.medscape.com/drug/lexapro-escitalopram-342961
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22433978/
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22057726/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3181883/ 

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Adult Medication

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Provided by Lexicomp ^® , this document contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.

Trade names: USA

Lexapro

Brand names: Canada

ACH-Escitalopram; ACT Escitalopram ODT; AG-Escitalopram; APO Escitalopram; Auro Escitalopram; BIO-Escitalopram; Cipralex; JAMP Escitalopram; KYE-Escitalopram; M-Escitalopram; Mar-Escitalopram; MINT-Escitalopram; MYLAN-Escitalopram; NAT-Escitalopram; NRA-Escitalopram; PMS-Escitalopram; PMSC-Escitalopram; RIVA Escitalopram; SANDOZ Escitalopram; TARO-Escitalopram; TEVA-Escitalopram

Warning

For all patients taking this drug:

• Drugs like this have increased the likelihood of suicidal thoughts or actions in children and young people. This risk may be higher in people who have tried or had suicidal thoughts in the past. All people taking this drug must be closely monitored. If you develop or worsen disorders such as depression, nervousness, anxiety, grouchiness, panic attacks, and changes in mood or behavior, contact your doctor immediately. Contact your doctor immediately if you have suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts.

Children:

• This drug is not approved for use in children of all ages. Check with your doctor to make sure this drug is right for your child.

What is this drug used for?

• Used to treat depression.
• Used to treat anxiety.
• This drug may also be used for other indications. Consult your doctor.

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?

• If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
• If you are taking any of the following drugs: linezolid or methylene blue.
• If you are taking one of the following drugs: citalopram or pimozide.
• If you have taken medications for depression or Parkinson’s disease in the past 14 days. These include isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline. An episode of very high blood pressure may occur.

This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor’s advice.

What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?

• Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
• Avoid driving and other activities that require increased attention until you see how this drug affects you.
• Do not stop taking this drug abruptly without consulting your doctor. This can increase the risk of side effects. If necessary, taking this drug should be stopped gradually, in accordance with the recommendations of the doctor.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug.
• Check with your doctor before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs that can slow you down.
• Depression may improve sleep and appetite quickly after starting this drug. It may take up to 4 weeks to relieve other symptoms of depression.
• This drug may increase the risk of bleeding. Sometimes bleeding can be life-threatening. Consult your doctor.
• This drug may cause low sodium levels. Very low sodium levels can be life-threatening, leading to convulsions, fainting, difficulty breathing, or death.
• If you are 65 years of age or older, use this drug with caution. You may experience more side effects.
• In some cases, the drug may affect the growth rate in children and adolescents. They may need regular growth rate checks. Consult your doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for you and your child will need to be discussed.
• Taking this drug during the third trimester of pregnancy may cause some health problems in the newborn. Consult your doctor.

What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?

WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Call your doctor right away or get medical help if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that could be associated with serious side effects:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly accompanied by fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
• Signs of low sodium levels such as headache, trouble concentrating, memory impairment, confused thinking, weakness, seizures, problems with balance.
• signs of bleeding, such as vomiting or coughing up blood; vomiting of the type of coffee grounds; blood in the urine; black, red, or tarry stools; bleeding from the gums; non-cyclic vaginal bleeding; bruises that appear or increase for no reason; bleeding that you cannot stop.
• Seizures.
• Fever or chills.
• Painful erections or erections that last more than 4 hours.
• Against the background of taking such drugs, violations of sexual function were noted. These included decreased interest in sex, problems achieving orgasm, problems ejaculating, or problems getting or maintaining an erection. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor.
• Some patients may be at increased risk of eye problems when using this drug. Your doctor may order an eye examination to see if you are at increased risk for these eye problems. Call your doctor right away if you have eye pain, vision changes, swelling or redness around the eye.
• A severe and sometimes deadly complication called serotonin syndrome can occur. This risk may be increased if certain other drugs are taken at the same time. Call your doctor right away if you experience agitation, balance problems, confusion, hallucinations, high fever, tachycardia or abnormal heart rhythms, flushing, muscle twitching or stiffness, seizures, tremors or tremors, excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, nausea or vomiting , a very severe headache.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention if these or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Feeling dizzy, drowsy, tired or weak.
• Nausea.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Dry mouth.
• Sleep disorders.
• Excessive sweating.
• Flu-like symptoms.
• Runny nose.
• Headache.
• Yawn.

This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.

You can report side effects to the National Health Board.

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

What is the best way to take this drug?

Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.

All forms:

• Take this drug with or without food.
• Keep taking this drug as instructed by your doctor or other health care professional, even if you feel well.

Oral solution:

• Liquid doses should be measured with caution. Use the dispenser that comes with the medicine. If the dispenser is not provided in the package, ask the pharmacist for a dosing agent for this drug.

What if I miss a dose of a drug?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you can.
• If it’s time for your next dose, don’t take the missed dose and then go back to your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

• Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.

General information about medicines

• If your health does not improve or even worsens, see your doctor.
• Do not give your medicine to anyone and do not take other people’s medicines.
• Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have any questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
• A separate instruction for patients is attached to the drug. Please read this information carefully. Reread it each time you refill your supply. If you have any questions about this drug, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
• If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.

Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability

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Last revision date

2021-07-22

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Date last updated

Monday, December 12, 2022

Blood test – drug monitoring of the drug Cipralex (Escitalopram) in Sochi (Adler) in the Optimum medical laboratory.

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Deadline for
(working days):
up to 10 days.

Price:

1650 ₽ ^*

* Taking biomaterial is paid separately

Cipralex is a drug from the group of third-generation antidepressants, the mechanism of action of which is associated with the reuptake of serotonin and an increase in the level of the neurotransmitter in the synaptic cleft, prolonging its action on the postsynaptic membrane. Indications for appointment are anxiety disorders of any etiology and severity, depression.

Preparation for the test: do not eat for 2-3 hours before the test, you can drink pure non-carbonated water; Do not smoke for 30 minutes prior to the study.

Biomaterial type: venous blood.

Synonyms (rus): elicea, lenuxin, selectra, cipralex, miracetol, sancipam.

Synonyms (eng): Lexapro, Escitalopram, S-citalopram.

Research method: Polarization fluoroimmunoassay (FPIA).

Units: Ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter).

Deadline: 10 days

Bioavailability does not depend on meals, binding to plasma proteins is less than 80%, so the use of the hemosorption method in case of overdose is ineffective. The time to reach the maximum concentration in the blood is about 4 hours against the background of constant intake. Biotransformirovatsya in the liver with the formation of pharmacologically active components. The elimination half-life is 30 hours, for metabolites it is even longer, which reduces the risk of developing withdrawal syndrome with abrupt discontinuation of medication. It is excreted from the body mainly by the kidneys. In older people, this process takes longer. Diseases accompanied by severe renal and hepatic insufficiency are a contraindication for the appointment of this drug.

At the therapeutic plasma concentration of , there is no dependence of the clinical effect on the applied dose, therefore drug monitoring is not carried out in most cases. Its implementation is relevant in case of concomitant pathology of the liver, kidneys with impaired excretory functions of these organs. Standard dosages of the drug cause the same clinical effect as increased ones, which is due to the fact that the suppression of serotonin reuptake in therapeutic doses occurs at a maximum of 70-80% and remains at almost the same level with a further increase in the dose.

The minimum effective dose of the drug leads to its concentration in the blood, which gives a positive clinical effect.

At the beginning of treatment, there may be an increase in the symptoms of the disease, which is associated with an increase in serotonin activity. Severe serotonin syndrome develops during combined treatment with other groups of drugs, especially with MAO type A inhibitors, which also requires careful clinical monitoring of the patient’s condition with the appointment of minimally effective doses.

There are no clear criteria for when exactly to conduct drug monitoring when taking Cipralex , which allows to determine the concentration of the drug in the biological fluids of the body with the determination of the minimum toxic and therapeutic doses to optimize treatment in each individual case, due to the lack of data on patients , in which the best therapeutic effect is not manifested when using standard dosages.