Escitalopram: daily use, missed doses and follow-up
This guide is here to teach you. It is not medical advice, and it does not replace your doctor or pharmacist. Always do what your doctor tells you, and ask a pharmacist before you change how you take any medicine.
Print or save this guideContact your prescriber promptly for worsening depression or thoughts of self-harm, particularly after starting or changing the dose. Antidepressants carry a warning about suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents and young adults. Immediate danger requires emergency help. Lexapro boxed warning
Quick answers
What does escitalopram treat?
It is an SSRI used for depression and generalized anxiety disorder.
Morning or evening?
It can be taken once daily in the morning or evening, with or without food. Choose the schedule agreed with your prescriber and keep it consistent.
When will I notice a benefit?
Full benefit can take several weeks. Keep follow-up appointments rather than changing the dose on your own.
Source: MedlinePlus escitalopram.
What if I forget a dose?
Take it when remembered unless the next dose is almost due; then skip it. Do not double up. If you have stopped for several days, ask your pharmacist or prescriber how to restart. MedlinePlus
Can I stop when I feel better?
Speak with your prescriber first. Stopping suddenly can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, anxiety or unusual sensations. Your prescriber may lower the dose gradually. MedlinePlus
Which symptoms need attention?
Nausea, sleep changes and sexual side effects can occur. Report troublesome effects. Fever with confusion, agitation, muscle stiffness or a fast heartbeat needs urgent medical help because serotonin syndrome is possible. New confusion, marked weakness or unsteadiness also needs prompt assessment; low sodium can occur, especially in older adults or people taking water pills. Lexapro label, sections 5 and 6
What should I check before adding another medicine?
Ask about other antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, tramadol, St. John's wort, NSAIDs and blood thinners. Discuss bipolar history, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Escitalopram and citalopram are different prescriptions; do not swap them yourself. Lexapro label
Ask a Fairview pharmacist
Ask a Fairview pharmacist about your medication list. Use urgent medical services for urgent symptoms. Prescription care is arranged with the pharmacy, not the OTC online shop. This is general education.