Escitalopram is also known by its brand name, Lexapro [1][2].
What is Lexapro used for?
Lexapro is prescribed to treat major depressive disorder in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older [1][3]. It is also used to treat generalized anxiety disorder in adults [1][3].
How does escitalopram work?
Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) [2][4]. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a chemical messenger, in the brain [4]. Serotonin plays a role in regulating mood, and imbalances in serotonin levels are thought to contribute to depression and anxiety [4].
When does the patent for Lexapro expire?
The compound patent for escitalopram has expired [5]. However, patent expiry dates can be complex, with various patents covering different aspects of a drug, such as formulation or method of use [5]. Information on specific patent expirations can be found at DrugPatentWatch.com [5].
Are there generic versions of Lexapro available?
Yes, generic versions of escitalopram are available [1]. The availability of generics typically follows the expiration of relevant patents [5].
What are the side effects of escitalopram?
Common side effects of escitalopram include nausea, insomnia, ejaculation disorder, fatigue, and increased sweating [3]. Less common but serious side effects can include suicidal thoughts, serotonin syndrome, and potential harm to a fetus if taken during pregnancy [3][6].
What other SSRIs are similar to escitalopram?
Other SSRIs used to treat depression and anxiety include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil), and citalopram (Celexa) [4][7]. Citalopram is the racemic form of escitalopram, meaning it contains both the S-enantiomer (escitalopram) and the R-enantiomer [2].
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Sources:
[1] National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Escitalopram Oxalate. MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604030.html
[2] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Escitalopram. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/drug/escitalopram
[3] U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (n.d.). Lexapro. DailyMed. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=9c2a6098-96c6-424a-b480-a38a97598607
[4] National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Depression. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Understanding Drug Patents. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/resources/understanding-drug-patents
[6] National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Serotonin Syndrome. MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/serotonin-syndrome.html
[7] National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Anxiety Disorders. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders