Changes coming to U.S. import regulations, effective August 29th, 2025. All shipments may be affected. Read more for continued updates.
(Escitalopram oxalate)
Prescription required. May be split. Product of UK/EU. Shipped from United Kingdom. Lexapro is also marketed internationally under the name Cipralex.
Prescription required. May be split. Product of UK/EU. Shipped from United Kingdom.
Prescription required. May be split. Product of Denmark. Shipped from Australia.
Prescription required. May be split. Product of Canada. Shipped from Canada.
Prescription required. May be split. Product of Denmark. Shipped from Australia.
Prescription required. May be split. Product of UK/EU. Shipped from United Kingdom.
Escitalopram is a prescription medication commonly used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. While it is only directly approved for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), it’s often used for other anxiety disorders as well.
Escitalopram belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which help increase serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety. Escitalopram may also be prescribed for other conditions, as determined by a healthcare provider.
To comply with Canadian International Pharmacy Association regulations you are permitted to order a 3-month supply or the closest package size available based on your personal prescription. read more
Some individuals may experience mild to moderate side effects while taking escitalopram. The most commonly reported side effects include:
Nausea
Trouble sleeping
Sweating
Fatigue or tiredness
Sleepiness
Sexual dysfunction (decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, or difficulty achieving orgasm)
Nausea and upset stomach tend to be the most commonly reported side effects. This is particularly common early in therapy and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your healthcare provider if any side effects persist or worsen.
While not addictive, continued use of medications like Lexapro changes the amount of serotonin available in your body. When the medication is stopped suddenly, symptoms like dizziness, mood swings, or irritability may occur due to a sudden change in neurotransmitter levels. If you need to stop taking Lexapro, it’s important to develop a plan with your healthcare provider to determine the best way to stop the medication—often involving a slow decrease in dosage over time to allow the body to adjust.
Although rare, some side effects may require immediate medical attention:
Severe Allergic Reactions: Swelling of the face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
Suicidal Thoughts or Actions: Increased suicidal ideation has been associated with antidepressants like Lexapro. This seems to be of particular concern in young adults during the initial treatment phase. Establishing and maintaining good communication and support is critical during this time.
Serotonin Syndrome: Symptoms include confusion, fever, agitation, excessive sweating, tremors, and seizures. This is more likely to occur if Lexapro is combined with other medications that also increase serotonin levels.
Seizures: Increased risk in individuals predisposed to seizures
Low Sodium Levels (Hyponatremia): Symptoms include headache, confusion, weakness, and nausea
Mania: Escitalopram may trigger manic episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder
Glaucoma: Worsening of narrow-angle glaucoma symptoms, including eye pain and vision changes
Abnormal Bleeding: Increased bleeding risk, especially when combined with NSAIDs, aspirin, or blood thinners
Escitalopram is primarily used for the treatment of:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Helps alleviate symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, and fatigue
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Reduces excessive worry, restlessness, and tension
Off-Label Uses: In some cases, it may be prescribed for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other conditions where escitalopram has demonstrated efficacy in clinical practice.
Escitalopram is available in various forms:
Oral Tablets: 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg
Oral Solution: 5 mg/5 mL
The appropriate dosage is determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs. It is usually taken once daily, with or without food.
Store at room temperature (68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C)
Keep in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and moisture
Short-term exposure to temperatures between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) is acceptable
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with a healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
Drug Interactions: Escitalopram can react with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), blood thinners, NSAIDs, St. John’s wort, or other SSRIs/SNRIs, potentially creating dangerous side effects. It’s critical to discuss all of your medications and treatments with your healthcare provider, including over-the-counter products, to ensure they can be used safely together.
Alcohol Use: Alcohol may increase drowsiness and impair cognitive function
Discontinuation: Do not stop escitalopram suddenly without consulting a healthcare provider; a slow taper off the medication under medical supervision is often recommended to prevent withdrawal symptoms
The content on this page is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. Patients should not use the information presented on this page for diagnosing a health-related issue or disease. Before taking any medication or supplements, patients should always consult a physician or qualified healthcare professional for medical advice or information about whether a drug is safe, appropriate or effective.