CIPRALEX FILM-COATED TABLETS 20mg Tablets

Escitalopram is an antidepressant from a group called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is thought to work by raising serotonin levels in the brain, which may help ease low mood and anxious thoughts.

It is used to treat:

• depression
• generalised anxiety disorder
• social anxiety disorder
• panic disorder
• obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, usually once a day.

• You can take it with or without food. Swallow tablets whole with water.
• It can take a few weeks before you feel better, so keep taking it.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless your next dose is nearly due; then skip it. Never take two doses together.
• Do not stop suddenly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will lower the dose slowly when it is time to stop.

Common side effects, which often ease within a couple of weeks, include:

• headache, feeling sick, sweating
• diarrhoea or constipation
• dizziness, sleepiness, restlessness or trouble sleeping
• changes in appetite or weight
• sexual problems, such as lower sex drive

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• thoughts of harming yourself or very low mood
• a fast or irregular heartbeat, light-headedness or fainting
• fast heartbeat with sweating, shaking, muscle twitching or confusion (possible serotonin syndrome)
• unusual bruising, or blood in your pee, poo or vomit
• swelling of the face, tongue or throat, or trouble breathing

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have had a reaction to escitalopram or another antidepressant
• have heart rhythm problems or heart disease
• have a bleeding disorder, or kidney or liver problems
• have diabetes, epilepsy or glaucoma
• have ever had mania
• take MAOI antidepressants, heart rhythm medicines, blood thinners such as warfarin, painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen, or St John's wort

Store as directed on the pack or leaflet, and keep out of the reach of children. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Mood: contact a doctor urgently if you have thoughts of harming yourself, especially when starting treatment or changing the dose.

Alcohol: it is best to avoid alcohol, as it can make you sleepier.

Driving: do not drive, cycle or use machinery if you feel dizzy, sleepy or have blurred vision.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Escitalopram may still be used after discussing benefits and risks.