Escitalopram
Tablet or capsule
Quick Summary
Escitalopram increases serotonin in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety. It takes a few weeks to work.
Medical Uses
How it's taken
Take once a day at the same time. Keep taking it even when you feel better, for as long as your doctor advises.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Common at first.
Sleep changes
Trouble sleeping or drowsiness.
Sexual side effects
Lower sex drive.
Interactions
Other antidepressants, tramadol and triptans
Risk of serotonin syndrome.
Blood thinners and NSAIDs
Bleeding risk.
Alcohol
Can worsen mood.
Critical Warnings
Thoughts of self-harm
Black Box Warning: Get help immediately: call 112 or Tele-MANAS (14416).
Don't stop suddenly
Your doctor will help you reduce it slowly.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Escitalopram: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Escitalopram: a medicine used to treat depression and anxiety(opens in a new tab) · NHS