Oxapro 5

Indications

Oxapro serves a variety of therapeutic purposes, including:

• Alleviating major depressive episodes.
• Managing panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia.
• Treating social anxiety disorder (social phobia).
• Addressing generalized anxiety disorder.
• Managing obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Pharmacology

Escitalopram, an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), acts as the pure S-enantiomer of the racemic bicyclic phthalate derivative citalopram. It exhibits potent inhibition of 5-HT reuptake, with minimal affinity for other receptors.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for various conditions includes:

• Major depressive episodes: Initiate with 10 mg daily, possibly increased to 20 mg daily based on individual response.
• Panic disorder: Start with 5 mg daily for the first week, followed by 10 mg daily, with potential escalation to 20 mg daily.
• Social anxiety disorder: Commence with 10 mg daily, adjust based on response, with a maximum of 20 mg daily.
• Generalized anxiety disorder: Begin with 10 mg daily, with potential escalation to 20 mg daily.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder: Start with 10 mg daily, possibly increased to 20 mg daily.

Administration

Escitalopram is generally administered once daily, either in the morning or evening, with or without food.

Interactions

Special caution is advised regarding interactions with MAOIs, with a recommended 2-week interval between treatments.

Contraindications

Escitalopram is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any inactive ingredients. Concurrent use with MAOIs or pimozide is contraindicated.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include gastrointestinal symptoms, weight changes, hypersensitivity reactions, dry mouth, nervousness, headache, insomnia, among others.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Treatment during pregnancy requires careful consideration of risks versus benefits. Escitalopram is excreted in breast milk, necessitating a cautious approach during lactation.

Precautions & Warnings

Use SSRIs cautiously in patients with certain medical conditions or taking specific medications. Special considerations apply to the elderly, children, individuals with renal or hepatic impairment, and poor metabolizers of CYP2C19.

Overdose Effects

Overdose symptoms may affect the central nervous, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular systems. Management involves supportive measures and monitoring.

Therapeutic Class

Escitalopram belongs to the class of SSRIs and related antidepressants.

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.