Escitalopram treatment: a clear, practical guide

Feeling unsure about escitalopram? Many people start it for depression or anxiety and see real improvement within weeks. This page gives straight answers—what escitalopram does, how to take it, what to expect, and simple tips to make treatment safer and more effective.

How escitalopram works and who it helps

Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant. It raises serotonin levels in the brain, which can lift mood and reduce worry. Doctors commonly prescribe it for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It can also help with panic attacks and social anxiety in some patients.

Not everyone responds the same. If you’ve tried one SSRI and didn’t do well, escitalopram might still work. If you have bipolar disorder or certain heart conditions, tell your doctor before starting—those need extra care.

Dosage, side effects, and practical tips

Typical starting dose for adults is 10 mg once daily. Some people start at 5 mg if they are older or sensitive to medications. Your doctor may raise the dose to 20 mg daily after a few weeks if needed. Don’t change dose suddenly—stopping or cutting back too fast can cause withdrawal-like symptoms.

Common side effects include mild nausea, sleep changes, dry mouth, and reduced sex drive. These often improve after a few weeks. Serious side effects are rare but include severe mood changes, worsening depression, or signs of serotonin syndrome (high fever, tremor, confusion). Call your provider immediately if you notice those.

Drug interactions matter. Avoid mixing escitalopram with MAO inhibitors, certain migraine meds (triptans), and some herbal supplements like high-dose St. John’s wort. Also be cautious with blood thinners—your doctor may monitor you more closely.

Practical tips that help day-to-day: take escitalopram at the same time every day, with or without food. If it makes you sleepy, take it at night; if it makes you jittery, take it in the morning. Keep a simple symptom diary for the first 6–8 weeks to track mood, sleep, appetite, and side effects. Share that with your clinician to fine-tune treatment.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding require a chat with your clinician—there are risks and benefits to weigh. If you drink alcohol, ask your doctor—alcohol can worsen anxiety and reduce how well the medicine works.

Buying medication online? Use licensed pharmacies, check reviews, and avoid sites that sell without a prescription. Compare prices safely but don’t skip medical follow-up. If escitalopram isn’t helping after 6–8 weeks at a therapeutic dose, talk to your provider about dose changes or other options like therapy or different medications.

Want more detail on side effects, interactions, or alternatives? Browse our related articles or bring your notes to your next visit—clear questions get clearer answers.