| DRUG | SUPPLIED | DOSE | COMMENTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESCITALOPRAM (Paeds) (Cipralex, Cipralex Meltz) Mechanism of action: A selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI). Ref: 4, 44, 83 Last update: 2021-08-02 |
tablet: 10 mg, 20 mg orally disintegrating tablet: 10 mg, 20 mg (non-formulary at BCCH) |
Children >= 12 years old/Adolescents: Initial dose: 5-10 mg PO daily. May be increased to a maximum of 20 mg PO daily after at least 3 weeks. Maximum Dose: Patients with liver dysfunction: 10 mg/24 h |
NOT interchangeable (and often confused) with citalopram. Effective in the treatment of depression. Also used to treat generalized/social anxiety disorder,post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive- compulsive disorder. Children metabolize SSRIs more rapidly than adults and may require doses in the higher end of the dosing range. May take 2-4 weeks to see therapeutic effects. Common adverse effects: headache, nausea, dry mouth, sweating, tremor, QTc prolongation and impaired sexual function (adolescents/adults). Minimal CYP interactions. Do not suddenly stop long-term treatment due to risk of SSRI discontinuation syndrome (flu-like symptoms, dizziness, "electric-shock" sensations). It is recommended to taper down dose by ~25%/week. See fluoxetine for more information. Prescribers must be aware of warnings issued by Health Canada regarding the use of antidepressants in pediatric patients, and use of escitalopram in patients with certain abnormal heart rhythms. Refer to the Health Canada Website. Standard Prescription: Escitalopram __ mg PO daily |