Trade Names: Escitalopram Aurovitas, Escitalopram Bluefish, Mozarin, Depralin, Aciprex, Escitil, Elicea, Escipram, Oroes, Pralex
Escitalopram: Gentle but Powerful Action
Escitalopram is one of the most selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Its distinguishing feature is its minimal impact on the norepinephrine and dopamine systems, which ensures gentle action and reduces the likelihood of side effects. The changes from its use usually come gradually and may be unnoticed by the patient, although those around them can see the improvement. Suddenly, the world no longer feels like a burden, and the person feels calmer and more cheerful.
Escitalopram builds a new perspective on reality step by step. First, it changes the attitude toward work, then toward interpersonal relationships, and finally toward oneself. Things that once caused irritation or indifference now bring pleasure: a simple walk, household chores, or a morning cup of coffee.
The Beginning of Therapy and Initial Anxiety
The start of the course may be associated with a temporary worsening of anxiety symptoms, known as initial anxiety. Many patients feel worried and believe that the medication is making them feel worse. In reality, this is a temporary effect that usually lasts a few days or weeks and precedes long-term benefits.
Once acute anxiety subsides, thoughts become organized, and constant worrying about the future and overreacting to stress disappears. The body also feels relief: muscles relax, and the feeling of throat tightness and breathing difficulties fade away.
When Is Escitalopram Effective?
Escitalopram effectively manages depression with anxiety symptoms. It is indicated for:
- panic attacks;
- social phobia;
- obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD);
- post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD);
- anxiety-depressive disorders.
In cases of apathetic depression and lack of energy, the medication may be less effective. If the anxiety has developed recently, escitalopram works faster. For chronic forms of anxiety, longer treatment and dosage adjustments may be required.
Escitalopram also helps overcome many internal complexes. The fear of judgment and lack of self-confidence gradually fade. Simple social interactions, such as meeting new people or talking in a group, cease to be stressful. The person becomes more confident in their words, actions, and responses to the environment.
A stable emotional state smooths out sudden mood swings. Where there used to be bursts of anger or panic, now there is calmness and control over the situation.
Possible Side Effects and Ways to Mitigate Them
Escitalopram is better tolerated than many other antidepressants, but it can still cause some side effects:
- Initial anxiety. Usually subsides within 1-2 weeks.
- Apathy. May result from too high a dose and can be resolved by lowering the dosage.
- Stomach problems (nausea, diarrhea). Common for this class of medications.
- Sweating, especially at night.
- Decreased libido. Usually temporary and disappears within a few months. If the problem persists, small doses of mirtazapine may be added.
If sleep disturbances occur, it is recommended to take escitalopram in the morning. For some patients, the medication improves sleep, while for others, it may cause insomnia—this depends on individual characteristics.
If side effects do not subside within 3 weeks, it is advisable to consult a doctor for dose adjustment or a medication switch.
Dosage and Discontinuation
The initial dose is 10 mg per day. The effectiveness of this dose is evaluated over 2-4 weeks. If there are no visible changes, the dose can be gradually increased by 5 mg per week, up to a maximum of 20 mg per day.
The full therapeutic effect of escitalopram develops slowly. The first signs of improvement may appear after 1.5-2 months, but a stable result is achieved after about 3 months. If the initial improvement seems temporary, it is important to continue therapy—over time, the effect will become lasting.
Escitalopram is easy to discontinue if the dose is reduced gradually. The standard scheme involves a dose reduction of 2.5 mg per week. Withdrawal symptoms are rare and much milder than with other antidepressants. If difficulties arise, a scheme with alternating doses can be used: 20 mg one day, 15 mg the next, and so on.
Conclusion
Escitalopram is the ideal choice for those who need gentle but reliable antidepressant treatment. It helps restore internal balance, reduce anxiety, and return to normal life. The road to recovery requires patience, but stable and long-term results are worth it.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts or your well-being has worsened, don’t postpone taking care of yourself. At the Plexus center in Warsaw, you’ll find a psychiatrist who speaks Polish and Russian, who will help you find a solution tailored to your needs.