Escitalopram (generic Lexapro®)

Escitalopram is the generic equivalent of Lexapro®.

By law, a generic drug must be the same as its brand name counterpart in terms of active ingredient, dosage, safety, effectiveness, strength, stability, and quality. A generic may, however, differ in its inactive ingredients (i.e. flavoring, fillers, and preservatives).

Escitalopram (Lexapro®) can does come with serious warnings. These include:

• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions*

• Serotonin syndrome—a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there’s too much serotonin in the brain

• Severe allergic reactions

• Abnormal bleeding

• Seizures or convulsions

• Manic episodes

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Low sodium levels in the blood

• Glaucoma

If any of the above concern you, speak with your doctor or pharmacist about your perceived risk and other treatment options that exist.

*A boxed warning is the most serious type of medication warning assigned by the FDA.

Escitalopram is a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, or SSRI. It works by blocking the brain’s quick absorption of serotonin, a “feed good” chemical in your brain. The end result? An increased level of serotonin in your brain, which is thought to improve mood.

Escitalopram is FDA approved for the treatment of:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD) or depression

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Panic disorder (PD)

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Social anxiety disorder (SAD)

• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

The most common side effects of escitalopram include:

• Nausea

• Sleepiness or trouble sleeping

• Weakness, dizziness

• Feeling anxious or shaking

• Sexual problems

• Sweating

• Lack of appetite

• Dry mouth, constipation

Side effects may improve over time as your body adjusts to the medicine. This list doesn’t represent all possible side effects of escitalopram. If you’re experiencing any ongoing, bothersome side effect(s), tell your healthcare provider right away.

If you’d like to learn more, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. The FDA also has a helpful medication guide for escitalopram here.

Escitalopram can interact with some medicines and supplements. It’s always recommended to give both your doctor and pharmacy an updated list of everything you’re taking, so drug interactions can be identified. If you’re unsure whether a certain drug or supplement can be taken with escitalopram, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. The FDA also has a helpful medication guide for escitalopram here.

If you accidentally miss your dose of escitalopram, take the dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose (within 2 hours), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Don’t take two doses of escitalopram at the same time.

Escitalopram may be taken with or without food. It can be taken morning or night depending on your side effect profile.

During pregnancy: While SSRIs, including escitalopram, are generally considered to be the safest options during pregnancy, risks may still exist.

While breastfeeding: Studies have found that small amounts of escitalopram can enter breast milk, but it remains uncertain whether the drug will affect your baby.

It’s important to treat mental health-related conditions when pregnant or nursing, as untreated depression, anxiety, or other mental illness can harm both you and baby. Always let your provider know if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, so you can discuss the risks and benefits of starting or continuing escitalopram.

It’s recommended to avoid or limit the use of alcohol when taking escitalopram. Alcohol can intensify the side effects of escitalopram, including dizziness and sleepiness.