Escitalopram
Brand: Lexapro (US/EU) / Nexito (IN) / Espram (BD)
Antidepressant
SSRI (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor)
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-life | 27 hours |
| Tmax | 5 h |
| Bioavailability | 80 % (approx) |
| Protein Binding | 56 % |
| Volume of Distribution | 12 L/kg (approx) |
| Clearance Route | hepatic |
| Active Metabolites | yes |
| Notes | Low drug–drug interaction potential; preferred SSRI for elderly due to cleaner profile. |
⚠️ Safety & Warnings
Severity: Moderate
Adverse Effects:
Insomnia, nausea, headache, sexual dysfunction
Contraindications:
Concomitant MAOI use
Precautions:
QT prolongation risk at higher doses; caution in hepatic impairment and elderly; monitor electrolytes if prolonged QT risk