Does escitalopram contain caffeine? (+3 key considerations)
By
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii (PhD)
Author bio
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii, PhD, is a Pharmacist with expertise in Drug Design and Development, Enzymes, Molecular Modelling, and Photodynamic Therapy. She writes and reviews content on these topics.
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii’s Highlights:
- Postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo, emphasizing therapy of neglected diseases using light.
- PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences focusing on drug design and development at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of São Paulo.
- Six months as an international researcher at the Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases (University of California San Diego)
- Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences focusing on drug design and development at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of São Paulo.
- Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Mogi das Cruzes – São Paulo / Brazil
Professional Experience:
2012 – 2018 Project manager at University of São Paulo – Pharmacy Department
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii has worked with computational studies, synthesis, biological evaluation, design, and development of new inhibitor candidates for Chagas Disease and Leishmaniasis.
2017 – 2017 International research fellow at University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases.
She used Virtual Screening (VS) and High-Throughput Screening (HTS) Integration in the Discovery of new drugs against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
2018 – 2019 Faculdades Oswaldo Cruz
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii was a professor in the Faculty of Pharmacy, teaching the subjects of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Drug Development.
2019 – 2021 Researcher in Biochemistry University of São Paulo – Biochemistry Department
She applied Photodynamic Therapy in Leishmaniasis Treatment, mentored undergraduate students in scientific activities, and wrote, executed, translated, and reported scientific projects with funding agencies.
2023-2023 UniPiaget – University Center.
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii was a Biology, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, and Pharmacy professor.
Education:
2018 -2021 Postdoctoral at the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo
2013 -2018 PhD of Science: Drugs and Medicines at Department of Pharmacy at University of São Paulo
2012 -2013 M.Sc. of Sciences: Drugs and Medicines at the Department of Pharmacy at the University of São Paulo
2005-2008 Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Mogi das Cruzes
The leading publications of Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii are:
Vital-Fujii, D.G, Baptista, M.S. (2021). Progress in the photodynamic therapy treatment of Leishmaniasis. Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 54, 1-11.
Gatti, F. M., Gomes, R.A., da Fonseca, A.L., Lima, E.J.C., Vital-Fujii, D.G., Taranto, A.G., Varotti, F.P., Trossini, G.H.G. (2020). Antiplasmodial activity of sulfonylhydrazones: in vitro and in silico approaches. Future medicinal chemistry, 13, 233-250.
Silva, E.J., Bezerra-Souza, A., Passero, L.F., Laurenti, M.D., Ferreira, G.M., Fujii, D.G.V., et al. (2018). Synthesis, leishmanicidal activity, structural descriptors and structure-activity relationship of quinoline derivatives. Future medicinal chemistry, 10, 2069-2085.
Leite, F.H.A., Froes, T.Q., da Silva, S.G., de Souza, E.I.M., Vital-Fuji,i D.G., Trossini, G.H.G., et al. (2017). An integrated approach towards the discovery of novel non-nucleoside Leishmania major pteridine reductase 1 inhibitors. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 132, 322-332.
Vital, D.G., Damasceno, F.S., Rapado, L.N., Silber, A.M., Vilella, F.S., Ferreira, R.S., et al. (2017). Application of bioisosterism in design of the semicarbazone derivatives as cruzain inhibitors: a theoretical and experimental study. Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 35, 1244–1259.
Mello, J. F.R., Gomes, R.A., Vital-Fujii, D.G., Ferreira, G.M., Trossini, G.H.G. (2017). Fragment-based drug discovery as alternative strategy to the drug development for neglected diseases. Chemical Biology & Drug Design, 90, 1067-1078.
Pantaleao, S.Q., Fujii, D.G.V., Maltarollo, V.G., da C. Silva, D., Trossini, G.H.G., Weber, K.C., et al. (2017). The Role of QSAR and Virtual Screening Studies in Type 2 Diabetes Drug Discovery. Medicinal Chemistry, 13, 706-720.
Vital, D., Arribas, M., Trossini, G. (2014). Molecular Modeling and Docking Application to Evaluate Cruzain Inhibitory Activity by Chalcones and Hydrazides. Letters in Drug Design and Discovery, 11, 249-255.
Blau, L., Menegon, R.F., Trossini, G.H.G., Molino, J.V.D., Vital, D.G., Cicarelli, R.M.B., et al. (2013). Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of new aryl thiosemicarbazone as antichagasic candidates. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 67, 142-151.
You can view some of Dr Drielli’s work below and links to her professional profile.
Orcid: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9270-0466
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Drielli-Gomes-Vital-Fujii
Scopus: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=55829534000
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=F9U50AEAAAAJ&hl=pt-BR
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/driellivital
Escavador: https://www.escavador.com/sobre/6101380/drielli-gomes-vital
CDIPD: https://cdipd.org/index.php/about-us/visiting-scientists
In this article, we will discuss whether escitalopram formulations contain caffeine. We will also discuss the available formulations of escitalopram in the market and their ingredients.
Does escitalopram contain caffeine?
No, Escitalopram does not contain caffeine. Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant medication, that works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. It is used in the treatment and management of depression, anxiety, and their associated symptoms (1).
On the other hand, caffeine is a naturally occurring central nervous system stimulant and a psychoactive drug belonging to the methylxanthines class. It is found in various beverages and foods, such as tea and coffee. It works by inhibiting the adenosine receptors (2).
What do escitalopram formulations contain?
Escitalopram formulations such as Lexapro and Cipralex, usually contain escitalopram oxalate as an active ingredient. In addition to active ingredients, these formulations also contain inactive ingredients, such as binders, fillers, and coating materials which help in the manufacturing, stabilization, and administration of escitalopram formulations.
The excipients do not contribute to the therapeutic activity of the medication and the composition of these excipients may vary from one brand of escitalopram to another, but no formulation of escitalopram contains caffeine.
The standard dosage of escitalopram, available in markets contains 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, and 20mg of escitalopram oxalate. Caffeine is typically not included in prescription medications like escitalopram (1).
Can you combine caffeine with escitalopram?
Caffeine can be combined with escitalopram, however before using this combination, consult your healthcare provider. They may provide you with personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual factors (3).
According to research, low doses of caffeine may enhance the effects of certain antidepressant medications including escitalopram. While exact mechanisms are not entirely understood, this combination may offer broader mood-enhancing effects and cognitive improvements (4).
However. it is important to note that individuals may respond differently to medications and their combinations with caffeine. Some individuals taking escitalopram may be more sensitive to the stimulatory effects of caffeine. So if you have any specific concerns about combining escitalopram with caffeine, discuss it with your healthcare provider.
What are the side effects of taking caffeine and escitalopram together?
While it’s generally considered safe to use both caffeine and escitalopram together, it’s important to be aware that some potential side effects of combining these substances may occur, and these can include the additive effects of each drug’s individual side effects such as,
- Increased restlessness
- Sleep Disturbances
- Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
- Stomach discomfort
- Headaches
- Mood Swings
It’s important to note that individual reactions to this combination can vary. Some people may experience these side effects more severely than others, while some may not experience them at all.
What are the key considerations for using caffeine with escitalopram?
While it is safe to combine caffeine with escitalopram, there are some key considerations that should be kept in mind before combining them to ensure the safe and effective use of the medications.
Individual sensitivity: Individual sensitivity to caffeine can vary among individuals. Some individuals can handle higher doses of caffeine with minimal side effects, while others may experience pronounced reactions even to small amounts.
Impact on sleep patterns: Both caffeine and escitalopram can disrupt sleep patterns. The timing of caffeine intake can affect your sleep, particularly if you’re already experiencing insomnia due to escitalopram use (5).
Medical guidance: Before combining caffeine with escitalopram, consult your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific condition, medication regimen, and individual response to caffeine.
What are the potential side effects of escitalopram?
Common side effects of escitalopram are mild to moderate and tend to subside after a few weeks. Common side effects of escitalopram can include: (6)
- nausea
- vomiting
- sleep disturbances
- dizziness
- weight changes
- sweating
- dry mouth
- fatigue
- sexual side effects
- agitation
It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important to note that escitalopram does not contain caffeine, and the effects of combining caffeine with this medication can vary among individuals due to differences in medication response and caffeine tolerance. Moreover, individual factors and mental health considerations significantly influence the outcome of this combination.
Therefore, it remains crucial, from my perspective, for individuals to engage in discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure they make informed choices that are tailored to their unique health needs.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Landy K, Rosani A, Estevez R. Escitalopram. 2023 Jan 28. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 32491666. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32491666/
2.-
Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Military Nutrition Research. Caffeine for the Sustainment of Mental Task Performance: Formulations for Military Operations. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2001. 2, Pharmacology of Caffeine. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK223808/
3.-
Szopa A, Poleszak E, Wyska E, Serefko A, Wośko S, Wlaź A, Pieróg M, Wróbel A, Wlaź P. Caffeine enhances the antidepressant-like activity of common antidepressant drugs in the forced swim test in mice. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol. 2016 Feb;389(2):211-21. doi: 10.1007/s00210-015-1189-z. Epub 2015 Nov 27. PMID: 26614569; PMCID: PMC4715838. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4715838/
4.-
Szopa A, Doboszewska U, Herbet M, Wośko S, Wyska E, Świąder K, Serefko A, Korga A, Wlaź A, Wróbel A, Ostrowska M, Terlecka J, Kanadys A, Poleszak E, Dudka J, Wlaź P. Chronic treatment with caffeine and its withdrawal modify the antidepressant-like activity of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in the forced swim and tail suspension tests in mice. Effects on Comt, Slc6a15 and Adora1 gene expression. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 2017 Dec 15;337:95-103. doi: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.10.020. Epub 2017 Nov 9. PMID: 29107002. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29107002/
5.-
Roehrs T, Roth T. Caffeine: sleep and daytime sleepiness. Sleep Med Rev. 2008 Apr;12(2):153-62. doi: 10.1016/j.smrv.2007.07.004. Epub 2007 Oct 18. PMID: 17950009. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17950009/
6.-
Burke WJ. Escitalopram. Expert Opin Investig Drugs. 2002 Oct;11(10):1477-86. doi: 10.1517/13543784.11.10.1477. PMID: 12387707. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12387707
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
