Your safety is our first priority. Learn more about key medication details, side effects, and other important information about your treatment.

Important Safety Information

Escitalopram is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It may be marketed under the brand name Lexapro®.

Escitalopram should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Do not take Escitalopram if you:

• Are currently taking or have recently taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Are allergic to escitalopram, citalopram, or any of the medication’s ingredients
• Are taking pimozide (a medication used to treat Tourette’s disorder)
• Are receiving treatment with methylene blue injection

Warnings and Precautions:

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors may occur, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults. Monitor mood and behavior closely, especially during the first few months of treatment or when changing doses.
• Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when escitalopram is taken with other serotonergic drugs (e.g., triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, or St. John’s Wort).
• May cause QT prolongation, a heart rhythm condition that can be serious. Use caution in patients with heart conditions or those taking other medications that affect heart rhythm.
• Use cautiously in patients with liver or kidney impairment, bipolar disorder, or a history of seizures.

Possible Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting
• Severe dizziness or irregular heartbeat
• Seizures
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• Serotonin syndrome symptoms such as high fever, agitation, confusion, sweating, tremor, or muscle rigidity

Common Side Effects May Include:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia or trouble sleeping
• Increased sweating
• Dizziness
• Sexual dysfunction (decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, or difficulty achieving orgasm)

Before Taking Escitalopram, Tell Your Healthcare Provider If You:

• Have a history of mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder or suicidal thoughts
• Have heart problems, including recent heart attack or irregular heartbeat
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of seizures
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking, especially:

• Other antidepressants or mood stabilizers
• Antipsychotics
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Medications that affect heart rhythm
• St. John’s Wort or tryptophan

Administration & Storage:

• Take escitalopram exactly as prescribed, with or without food.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets.
• Store at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.

If you experience any unusual side effects or have concerns about your medication, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Never stop escitalopram abruptly without medical supervision, as withdrawal symptoms may occur.