SSRI · generic Lexapro

Escitalopram.

A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, and one of the best tolerated. Once a day, morning or evening.

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escitalopram

At a glance

Typical dose

10 mg daily

Your physician sets your dose.

Form

Tablet

Generic, from a licensed US pharmacy.

Regulatory status

FDA-approved for depression and generalised anxiety disorder.

Used in: Anxiety Low mood

What to expect

The timeline.

Weeks 1 to 2Possible nausea, headache or a jittery feeling. Usually fades.
Weeks 4 to 6Full effect on mood and worry.
StoppingAlways tapered with your physician. Never stop abruptly.

Common side effects

Nausea, headache, sleep changes, sweating, reduced libido or delayed orgasm.

Not suitable for

Anyone taking an MAOI, or with known QT prolongation. Tell your physician if you are pregnant, or have bipolar disorder.

FDA boxed warning

Antidepressant-class medications can increase suicidal thoughts and behaviour in children, adolescents and adults under 25, particularly in the first weeks or after a dose change. Watch for any change in mood and contact your physician straight away. In crisis, call or text 988.

This is a summary, not the full prescribing information. Read the leaflet that comes with your medication. Report side effects to your physician, or to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The evidence

In a network meta-analysis of 522 trials and 116,477 participants, escitalopram ranked among the most effective and best tolerated antidepressants (Cipriani et al., The Lancet, 2018).

Published trial results, not okay. patient outcomes.

Escitalopram

$45/mo

Includes physician care, messaging, medication if prescribed, and free discreet shipping.

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