Escitalopram

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 4/20/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of escitalopram can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of escitalopram use include:

• Nausea
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
  
• Heartburn
  
• Insomnia or drowsiness
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Fatigue
  
• Increased sweating
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Weight changes
  
• Headache
  
• Shaking
  
• Sexual dysfunction in both males and females (such as decreased libido, difficulty achieving orgasm)
  
  

More severe side effects of escitalopram use can include:

• Suicidal thoughts or behavior (especially in younger adults or during the initial phase of treatment)
  
• Serotonin syndrome (a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, twitching, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
  
• Seizures
  
• Manic episodes (in individuals with bipolar disorder)
  
• Abnormal bleeding (such as easy bruising, nosebleeds)
  
• Changes in heart rate or rhythm
  
• Low sodium levels (hyponatremia)
  
  

Escitalopram may increase the risk of developing serotonin syndrome when taken with other medications that increase serotonin levels, such as certain antidepressants, migraine medications, and illicit drugs.

If you experience any severe side effects while taking escitalopram, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with escitalopram. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with escitalopram.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Other antidepressants or mood stabilizers
  
• Medications that affect serotonin levels
  
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  
• Blood thinners (anticoagulants and antiplatelets)
  
• Muscle relaxants
  
• Heart rhythm medications
  
• St. John's wort or other herbal supplements
  
  

Mention medical conditions such as:

• Bipolar disorder or a history of mania/hypomania
  
• Seizures or epilepsy
  
• Bleeding disorders or a history of bleeding problems
  
• Liver or kidney disease
  
• High blood pressure
  
• Diabetes
  
• Glaucoma
  
• Sexual problems
  
• Drug addiction
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using escitalopram with your healthcare provider.

Take escitalopram exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not increase or decrease the dosage without consulting them.

Avoid using alcohol while taking escitalopram.

In case of an escitalopram overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, seizures, and coma. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.