Ecitelo 5mg Tab

ECITELO 5MG TAB, manufactured by Mankind Pharma Ltd., is an antidepressant belonging to the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) class. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a natural chemical messenger in the brain, which helps to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of various mental health conditions.

Name

• Brand Name: ECITELO 5MG TAB (also referred to as Ecitel 5 MG Tablet)
• Common Name: Escitalopram

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Escitalopram (as oxalate) 5 mg.

Uses

ECITELO 5MG TAB is prescribed for the management of various psychiatric disorders, including:

• Major Depressive Episodes (Depression)
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Panic Disorder (with or without agoraphobia)
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Dosage and Administration

The usual recommended dose of Escitalopram is 10 mg once daily, though doctors may start with a lower dose and gradually increase it. The maximum daily dose is typically 20 mg. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day. For individuals with liver problems, the maximum recommended dose is 10 mg per day. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects include:

• Nausea, upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
• Fatigue, dizziness, headache, sleepiness, insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Dry mouth
• Increased sweating
• Reduced sexual drive, delayed ejaculation, and difficulty achieving orgasm (in women)
• Confusion, restlessness, abnormal dreams
• Weight gain or loss
• Joint pain, muscle pain

Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention if experienced):

• Increased suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults.
• Convulsions, fast heartbeat
• Severe allergic reactions (wheezing, chest tightness, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)
• Agitation, tremor, blurred eyesight
• Increased bruising or bleeding
• Symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome (agitation, twitching, muscle stiffness, very nervous and excitable, fast heartbeat).

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy, and should be used with caution during breastfeeding only if clearly necessary.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of epilepsy/seizures, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, heart problems (including irregular heart rhythms, coronary heart disease, recent heart attack), glaucoma, or low sodium levels.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: ECITELO may cause sleepiness or dizziness, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Children and Adolescents: Use in patients under 18 years of age is generally not recommended due to increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
• Drug Interactions: Avoid concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) due to the risk of serious side effects. Caution is advised with other antidepressants, lithium, tryptophan, triptans, tramadol, certain antibiotics, and blood thinners (NSAIDs, aspirin, anticoagulants) as they can increase the risk of adverse effects like serotonin syndrome or bleeding.

Storage

ECITELO 5MG TAB should be stored in its original packaging in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

ECITELO 5MG TAB contains Escitalopram, an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is primarily used to treat various mental health conditions.

Here are some frequently asked questions about ECITELO 5MG TAB:

What is ECITELO 5MG TAB used for?

ECITELO 5MG TAB (Escitalopram) is used to treat major depressive disorder and a range of anxiety disorders in adults. These anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder (with or without agoraphobia), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It may also be used off-label for conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

How does ECITELO 5MG TAB work?

ECITELO 5MG TAB works by increasing the levels of a natural chemical called serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, behavior, appetite, and stress. As a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), Escitalopram blocks the reuptake of serotonin into nerve cells, making more serotonin available to improve communication between brain cells, thereby alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.

What is the usual dosage for ECITELO 5MG TAB?

The typical starting dose of Escitalopram for adults is usually 10 mg once daily, but a doctor may start with 5 mg daily and gradually increase it. The dose may be adjusted based on the patient's response and can go up to a maximum of 20 mg per day. For individuals with liver problems, the maximum recommended dose is 10 mg a day. It is taken once a day, with or without food, and can be taken in the morning or evening, though morning is often suggested if there's difficulty sleeping.

What are the possible side effects of ECITELO 5MG TAB?

Common side effects include nausea, headache, dry mouth, increased sweating, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), feeling sleepy or tired (fatigue), dizziness, changes in appetite, constipation, diarrhea, and sexual dysfunction (such as decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, or difficulty achieving orgasm). Serious side effects, though less common, can include severe allergic reactions, suicidal thoughts or actions (especially in young adults and children), serotonin syndrome, seizures, low sodium levels (hyponatremia), abnormal bleeding or bruising, and heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation).

Is ECITELO 5MG TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: ECITELO 5MG TAB is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary, as there may be potential risks. Some studies suggest a small, possibly increased risk of heart development issues in the baby, and short-term withdrawal symptoms or breathing problems in newborns if taken in the weeks before delivery. It's crucial to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Breastfeeding: Escitalopram passes into breast milk in small amounts. While it doesn't usually cause problems, some breastfed babies might experience irritability, restlessness, or poor feeding. It's generally not recommended unless clearly necessary, and your doctor will help you weigh the benefits and risks.

Can ECITELO 5MG TAB be taken with other medications?

ECITELO 5MG TAB can interact with several medications. It should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Caution is advised with other serotonergic drugs (e.g., other antidepressants, triptans, tramadol, St. John's wort) as they can also increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Combining it with blood thinners (like warfarin, NSAIDs, aspirin) can increase the risk of bleeding. It's important to inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. Alcohol consumption should be avoided while taking ECITELO 5MG TAB.

What precautions should be taken when using ECITELO 5MG TAB?

• Suicidal Thoughts: ECITELO 5MG TAB, like other antidepressants, carries a boxed warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults, especially when starting treatment or changing doses. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential.
• QT Prolongation: It can cause a mild, dose-dependent prolongation of the QT interval, a measure of heart electrical activity. Use with caution in those with pre-existing heart conditions or who are taking other medications that prolong the QT interval.
• Low Sodium Levels: It can cause low sodium levels (hyponatremia), particularly in older adults or those taking diuretics.
• Glaucoma: ECITELO 5MG TAB may increase pressure inside the eye and can cause or worsen narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: It may cause drowsiness or affect judgment, thinking, and movements. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose of ECITELO 5MG TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms, so it should only be done under medical supervision by gradually reducing the dose.

How should ECITELO 5MG TAB be stored?

ECITELO 5MG TAB should be stored at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). It can tolerate temperatures between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) for shorter periods. Keep it in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. It should be kept out of the reach of children.