About Lexapram Tablet 20mg
A prescription tablet used to treat depression and certain anxiety disorders.
Lexapram Tablet Uses
- Major depressive disorder in adults
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia
- Obsessive compulsive symptoms as advised by a psychiatrist
Lexapram Tablet Benefits
- Steady improvement in low mood and persistent sadness over several weeks
- Reduced frequency of panic attacks with continued use
- Once daily dosing that fits easily into a daily routine
- Fewer drug interactions compared to older antidepressants
What Experts Say
Citalopram belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor group. It blocks the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, which raises serotonin levels at nerve connections and gradually stabilizes mood, sleep, and appetite over two to four weeks of regular use.
Psychiatrists prescribe it because it has a predictable dosing pattern, once daily use, and a manageable side effect profile for long term treatment. Regular follow up allows the dose to be adjusted safely, especially since higher doses can affect heart rhythm in sensitive patients.
Depression and anxiety remain widely underdiagnosed across Pakistan because of stigma around mental health treatment and limited access to counseling. Doctors increasingly prescribe SSRIs like this one alongside therapy, and pharmacists routinely counsel patients on the importance of not stopping treatment on their own. Follow up visits are commonly scheduled every few weeks in the early months of treatment to track response and side effects.
Drug Class
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
- Antidepressant
Lexapram Tablet Uses in Urdu
- ڈپریشن یعنی مسلسل اداسی کے علاج کے لیے
- بے چینی اور گھبراہٹ کی شدید کیفیت کے لیے
- پینک اٹیک یعنی اچانک شدید خوف کے دوروں کے لیے
Lexapram Tablet 20mg formula
How to use Lexapram Tablet 20mg?
- Take this tablet at the same time each day, with or without food.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
- Continue the course even after mood improves, unless a doctor advises otherwise.
- Avoid stopping the tablet suddenly without medical guidance.
Drug Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): A dangerous serotonin syndrome can occur if this tablet is combined with an MAOI, so a washout period is required.
- Other serotonergic drugs: Tramadol, triptans, and other SSRIs increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with citalopram.
- NSAIDs and aspirin: Combined use raises the risk of unusual bruising or gastrointestinal bleeding.
- QT prolonging medicines: Certain antiarrhythmics and antipsychotics add to the heart rhythm risk already carried by citalopram.
Risks and warnings
- Suicidal thoughts: A higher risk of suicidal thinking has been reported in younger patients during the first weeks of treatment, so close monitoring is needed.
- Heart rhythm changes: Citalopram can prolong the QT interval in a dose dependent manner, which raises concern in people with existing heart rhythm problems.
- Serotonin syndrome: A combination with other serotonergic drugs can trigger a dangerous rise in serotonin activity with agitation, fever, and rapid heartbeat.
- Discontinuation symptoms: Dizziness, irritability, and flu like sensations can appear if the tablet is stopped abruptly after regular use.
Lexapram Tablet Side Effects
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Insomnia
- Excessive sweating
- Reduced appetite
- Sexual difficulties
- Tremor
Storage Conditions
- Store below 30°C in a dry place.
- Keep the tablets in their original blister strip until use.
- Protect from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.