Does escitalopram make you feel better? (Some tips)

In this brief article, we answer the question “Does escitalopram make you feel better?”. We will also represent some research studies that can help you understand the effects of this drug.

Does escitalopram make you feel better?

Yes, escitalopram makes you feel better. It is considered a very effective treatment for major depressive disorders, including severe forms and various anxiety disorders (1). Escitalopram has a good safety profile and has been demonstrated to be effective in both acute and long-term therapy for adolescents and adults (1).

Besides, escitalopram has been shown to be safe and effective for treating anxiety in patients with coronary heart disease (2). Escitalopram, when compared to other antidepressants, is typically better tolerated, has a faster onset of action, and may have cost-effectiveness and cost-utility benefits (3).

When does escitalopram start to show an effect on mood?

Escitalopram showed great effect in improving depressed mood. This starts to show 1-4 weeks from the start of therapy, and in some cases, it may require a longer time.

This recommends that you don’t stop taking your medication and don’t expect any results unless a month passes with a regular daily dose of escitalopram.

As escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that gradually raises the amount of serotonin in the brain, it takes time until it reaches the effective concentration that is required for therapy.

Serotonin is the neurotransmitter responsible for mood modulation, cognition, learning, memory, and a variety of psychological functions (2).

How does research explain the efficacy of escitalopram?

In a study evaluating the effect of escitalopram on anxiety in depressive disorders, it was found that during initial clinical trials, escitalopram influenced not only depressive disorders but also anxiety (3). This effect was higher when using a 20 mg/day dose than when using a 10 mg/day dose.

In another three studies, including 853 patients, comparing the effects of escitalopram and citalopram, results showed that escitalopram was faster in the onset of action. On the other hand, both drugs were superior in their action on depressive anxiety disorders (3).

In some recent studies, escitalopram potency evaluation showed efficacy in panic disorders and generalized anxiety disorders in older patients using a dose of 20 mg/day. This made escitalopram the first-line therapy in such cases (4).

Several clinical trial results showed that escitalopram possesses good efficacy in the treatment of anxiety disorders such as panic disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, and social anxiety disorders (3). It is registered in most countries and approved for the treatment of these disorders.

What are the precautions when using escitalopram therapy?

The following precautions must be taken into consideration during therapy with escitalopram (3):

• Hypersensitivity from escitalopram must be noticed during therapy and discontinuation if it occurs.
• Simultaneous use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors with escitalopram is contraindicated.
• It is not used in children under the age of 18, as it may cause signs of suicide or hostile behavior.
• Patients suffering from epilepsy, diabetes, mania, or hypomania in their history.
• Suicidal patients must be carefully monitored.

To avoid any side effects from escitalopram therapy, a recommended initial dose of 10mg taken once daily can be increased to 20 mg/day as a final dose. If side effects appear, they aren’t serious, don’t need to be worried about, and almost subside once your body gets used to your medication.

What is the recommended duration of treatment?

It may require a few weeks of therapy before you feel better. Continue to take this medication even if you don’t see any improvement in your health right away. Don’t change the dose of your medication by yourself; do so only after consulting your doctor.

If you stop taking your medication too soon, your symptoms will reappear. It is suggested that you continue your therapy for at least 6 months after you feel better.

Don’t stop taking escitalopram from yourself unless your doctor consults you to. When you have finished your medication course, it is usually recommended that you gradually lower the amount taken over a period of weeks.

What are the suggested side effects of escitalopram?

Common side effects that appear during therapy, especially in cases that require long-term therapy with escitalopram, are summarized as follows: Dry mouth, diarrhea, and yawning.

Antidepressant side effects may be successfully measured by self-report. Adherence to antidepressant medication may be improved by paying attention to specific adverse effects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, escitalopram is considered a good candidate for the treatment of depression and all anxiety disorders. It is effective and the drug of choice, even in severe forms of depression. However, some precautions must be taken into consideration during therapy.

Continuous consultation with your therapist is recommended to avoid any complications and early handling of the expected adverse effects.

References