Szetalo 10 Mg Tablet ( 15 Tab )

SZETALO 10 MG TABLET is an antidepressant manufactured by ABBOTT HEALTHCARE PVT. LTD.. It is primarily used for the management of depression and various anxiety disorders.

Name

• Brand Name: SZETALO 10 MG TABLET
• Common Name: Escitalopram (as Escitalopram Oxalate)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Escitalopram Oxalate 10 mg SZETALO 10 MG TABLET is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, thereby improving mood and relieving symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Uses SZETALO 10 MG TABLET is prescribed for the treatment of:

• Depression (major depressive episodes)
• Anxiety disorders, including:
  • Generalized anxiety disorder
  • Panic disorder (with or without agoraphobia)
  • Social anxiety disorder (social phobia)
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Dosage and Administration

• Typically taken once daily, preferably at the same time each day, with or without food.
• The usual starting adult dose is 10 mg once daily, which may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg after one week, as advised by a doctor.
• It may take several weeks for the full effects to be observed.
• Do not stop taking the medication abruptly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effects Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, headache
• Fatigue, sleepiness, insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Increased sweating
• Dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting
• Decreased or increased appetite, weight gain
• Decreased sexual drive, delayed ejaculation, difficulty achieving orgasm in women

Serious side effects are rare but may include mood changes, thoughts of harming oneself, or unusual behavior.

Precautions

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of epilepsy (seizures), diabetes, liver or kidney disease, or heart problems.
• Not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women unless considered clearly necessary by a doctor.
• Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.
• May impair judgment or reflexes; caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.
• Interactions can occur with MAO inhibitors, anti-migraine agents (e.g., sumatriptan), opioids (e.g., tramadol), certain stomach ulcer medicines (e.g., cimetidine, omeprazole), antifungals (e.g., fluconazole), NSAIDs, blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), and other antidepressants.

Storage

• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

SZETALO 10 MG TABLET contains Escitalopram, an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

What is SZETALO 10 MG TABLET used for?

SZETALO 10 MG TABLET is primarily used for the management of major depressive disorder (depression) in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. It is also effective in treating various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults and children 7 years and older, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder (with or without agoraphobia), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Some sources also mention its use for post-traumatic stress disorder.

How does SZETALO 10 MG TABLET work?

Escitalopram, the active ingredient in SZETALO 10 MG TABLET, works by increasing the levels of a natural chemical messenger called serotonin in the brain. Serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating mood and maintaining mental balance. As an SSRI, it achieves this by blocking the reuptake (reabsorption) of serotonin into nerve cells, making more serotonin available in the synaptic gap between neurons, which helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

What is the usual dosage for SZETALO 10 MG TABLET?

For adults with depression or generalized anxiety disorder, the usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, taken either in the morning or evening, with or without food. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response, but it typically does not exceed 20 mg per day. For panic disorder, an initial dose of 5 mg for the first week is often recommended before increasing to 10 mg daily. For older adults, the recommended dose is generally 10 mg once a day. If you have liver problems, the maximum recommended dose is 10 mg a day. It may take 1 to 4 weeks or longer to feel the full benefit of the medication.

What are the possible side effects of SZETALO 10 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include nausea, headache, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), drowsiness or fatigue, increased sweating, dry mouth, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, and sexual problems (such as decreased sex drive or difficulty with orgasm or ejaculation). These are usually mild and may subside after a couple of weeks.

More serious, but less common, side effects include severe allergic reactions, serotonin syndrome (symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, muscle stiffness, sweating), seizures, low sodium levels, abnormal bleeding or bruising, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors (especially in children, adolescents, and young adults). It can also sometimes cause changes in appetite or weight, and visual problems. It's important to report any concerning side effects to your doctor immediately.

Is SZETALO 10 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Escitalopram can be taken during pregnancy, but it's crucial to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. While some studies suggest a small, occasional risk to the baby's heart development and a slightly increased risk of bleeding after delivery when taken in the last month, the majority of babies born to women taking escitalopram will have a normal heart. Taking it in the weeks before delivery can sometimes cause short-term withdrawal symptoms or, rarely, breathing problems in newborns. Breastfeeding: Escitalopram passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered possible to take escitalopram while breastfeeding if your baby is healthy, especially if the infant is older than 2 months, as low levels in milk are not expected to cause adverse effects. However, minor behavioral problems like unusual irritability, restlessness, sleepiness, or poor feeding have been reported in a few breastfed babies. It's important to monitor the infant for any adverse effects and consult your doctor or health visitor.

Can SZETALO 10 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

SZETALO 10 MG TABLET can interact with several medications, increasing the risk of side effects. Do Not Take With:

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Combining escitalopram with MAOIs (e.g., isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, linezolid, methylene blue injection) is contraindicated due to a significant risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening. There should be a 14-day washout period when switching between escitalopram and MAOIs.
• Pimozide: Concomitant use with pimozide is also contraindicated. Use with Caution and Doctor Supervision:
• Other Serotonergic Drugs: Medications that increase serotonin levels, such as other SSRIs, SNRIs (e.g., duloxetine, venlafaxine), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline), triptans (for migraines), fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and the herbal supplement St. John's wort, can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
• Blood Thinners & NSAIDs: Escitalopram can slightly increase the risk of bleeding. This risk is further elevated when taken with blood thinners (anticoagulants like warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, clopidogrel) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin).
• Medicines affecting heartbeat: Escitalopram can affect heart rhythm, so caution is advised with other medicines that affect the heartbeat. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, and supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken with SZETALO 10 MG TABLET?

• Suicidal Thoughts: Escitalopram, like other antidepressants, carries a boxed warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults. Close monitoring for changes in mood or behavior is essential, especially at the beginning of treatment or when doses are adjusted.
• Glaucoma: Use with caution if you have glaucoma, as it may increase eye pressure.
• Liver or Kidney Problems: Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, as dose adjustments or closer monitoring may be necessary.
• Seizures: Prescribe with care in patients with a history of seizures, as escitalopram may increase seizure risk.
• Bipolar Disorder: Use cautiously if you have a history of mania or bipolar disorder, as escitalopram can activate manic episodes.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase drowsiness.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medicine may affect your coordination, reaction time, or judgment, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking escitalopram suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, nausea, dizziness, headaches, and electric shock-like sensations. A gradual reduction in dose is recommended.

What happens if a dose of SZETALO 10 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses to make up for a forgotten one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

How should SZETALO 10 MG TABLET be stored?

SZETALO 10 MG TABLET should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it from freezing and out of the reach of children. Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. The ideal temperature range for storing Escitalopram is between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C), not exceeding 86°F (30°C).