Escitalopram (Systemic)

Brand Names : Lexapro

Proper Use of This Medicine

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor to help your condition as much as possible. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

Escitalopram may be taken with or without food on a full or empty stomach. If your doctor tells you to take it a certain way, follow your doctor's instructions.

You may have to take escitalopram for 1 to 4 weeks before you begin to feel better .

Do not stop taking this medication without checking first with your doctor

Dosing - The dose of escitalopram will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of escitalopram. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The number of tablets that you take depends on the strength of the medicine.

• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  • For depression:
    • Adults - To start, usually 10 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken either in the morning or evening. Your doctor may increase your dose gradually if needed. However, the dose usually is not more than 20 mg a day.
    • Older adults and patients with liver problems - Usually 10 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken either in the morning or evening.

Missed dose - Because escitalopram may be taken by different patients at different times of the day, you and your doctor should discuss what to do if you miss any doses.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.