Escitalopram

Escitalopram, the (S)-enantiomer of citalopram, is a highly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Escitalopram is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating major depressive disorder (unipolar) in adults and adolescents (ages 12 to 17) for both acute and maintenance phases. The FDA recently approved escitalopram for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder in both adults and children aged 7 and older. Escitalopram is also used off-label for conditions such as social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and the management of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. Safe and effective treatment of escitalopram requires an understanding of its potential adverse effects and drug interactions. This activity outlines the clinical applications, mechanisms of action, possible adverse effects, and drug interactions of escitalopram to help interprofessional healthcare providers direct patient therapy in treating various conditions. This activity also emphasizes the importance of vigilant monitoring and making informed decisions by healthcare professionals throughout escitalopram therapy, facilitating early detection and intervention to ensure patient safety and provide optimal care.