Escitalopram

Mental health

Also known as Lexapro

Escitalopram is an SSRI, a close cousin of sertraline, and one of the most prescribed medicines for depression and generalized anxiety. It raises serotonin levels in the brain to steady mood over time. Like all SSRIs it's a slow burn: expect two to six weeks before the real benefit arrives, with side effects often showing up first and then fading.

How to take it

When

Once a day, morning or evening — whichever suits how it affects your sleep. Stay consistent.

Food

With or without food.

Avoid

Alcohol and St John's wort. Ask a pharmacist before combining with regular painkillers like ibuprofen — SSRIs slightly raise bleeding risk.

Stopping

Taper off gradually with your doctor's help. Stopping cold can cause dizziness, irritability, and flu-like symptoms.

Missed a dose?

Take it when you remember, unless the next dose is close — then skip. One dose at a time.

Common side effects

Nausea, usually in the first week or two
Headache or trouble sleeping
Feeling more anxious briefly before feeling better
Sexual side effects — common; talk to your doctor rather than quietly stopping the medicine

Call a doctor if

New or worsening depression or thoughts of self-harm, especially early on or under age 25 — tell someone and call your doctor
Fever, agitation, racing heart, twitching — possible serotonin syndrome, get help now
Fainting or a pounding, irregular heartbeat
Unusual bleeding

Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.