Escitalopram (US brand name Lexapro® and generic) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Here is basic information about this medication.
FDA-approved indications
1. Major depressive disorder (4 indications):
Acute treatment – Adults
Maintenance treatment – Adults
Acute treatment – Adolescents (12 to 17 years old)
Maintenance treatment – Adolescents (12 to 17 years old)
2. Generalized Anxiety Disorder:
Acute treatment – Adults
Dosage and administration
1. Major depressive disorder (adults and adolescents)
Initial: 10 mg once daily
Recommended: 10 mg once daily
Maximum: 20 mg once daily
2. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (adults)
Initial: 10 mg once daily
Recommended: 10 mg once daily
Dosage forms and strengths (USA)
Tablets: 5 mg, 10 mg (scored), 20 mg (scored)
Oral solution: 5 mg/5 mL
Clinical pharmacology
Escitalopram is metabolized by CYPP450 enzymes 2C19, 2D6, and 3A4.
It is a mild to moderate inhibitor of CYP2D6.
It is a substrate of P-glycoprotein.
Important! Please refer to Prescribing Information (see link below) for a complete discussion of dosage, administration, warnings and precautions, contraindications, etc.
Related Pages
Combining antidepressants: Are two better than one?
SSRIs and QT Prolongation
Citalopram (Celexa®): Basic Information
References
Prescribing information for escitalopram (Lexapro®)
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