Escitalopram
A highly selective SSRI. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of depression in adolescents aged 12-17.
Dosage by Body Weight
Initial dose: 10 mg once daily. May increase to 20 mg after 3 weeks. Monitor for increased suicidal thoughts early in treatment.
- Body Weight
- Adolescents (Over 35 kg)
- Dose
- 10 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Can be taken with or without food.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adolescents (Over 35 kg) | 10 mg | Once daily | Can be taken with or without food. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety in adolescents.
Generic Name
Escitalopram OxalateBranded Drug Names
Escitalopram is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
UNSAFEEscitalopram: Alcohol can worsen drowsiness, mood changes, impaired judgment, or heart rhythm effects. Avoid alcohol unless your prescriber confirms it is safe.
Pregnancy
CAUTIONEscitalopram: Use in pregnancy only when prescribed after weighing mental health benefits and medicine-specific risks.
Breast Feeding
CAUTIONEscitalopram: May pass into breast milk. Use while breastfeeding only with specialist guidance and infant monitoring.
Driving
CAUTIONEscitalopram: May cause sleepiness, dizziness, slowed reaction time, or concentration changes. Avoid driving if affected.
Liver
CAUTIONEscitalopram: Use caution in liver disease because several psychiatric or sedating medicines are processed by the liver.
Kidney
CAUTIONEscitalopram: Kidney disease may require monitoring or dose adjustment for some medicines in this group.