medications+

Australian patient guide

Depression and anxietyPage 1 of 2

Escitalopram Brands include Lexapro and generic versions

Understanding your treatment

Taken
Once a day
How
Tablet by mouth (a liquid is also available)
Active ingredient
Escitalopram

What is it for?

Escitalopram is an antidepressant for adults with depression, generalised anxiety (ongoing worry) or social anxiety. Use for panic disorder is off-label in Australia; your GP will explain. It works gradually, usually over several weeks. [1, 2]

What can I expect?

In studies of 8 to 12 weeks, adults with depression or anxiety improved more than with a dummy tablet. Results vary. Keep taking it and keep your reviews. Talking therapy and support also matter. [5, 6, 7]

Your daily dose

  1. 10 mgUsual starting dose
  2. 20 mgIf prescribed; usual maximum

Usually 10 mg once a day, with or without food. Your GP may increase it to 20 mg. Over 65, usually no more than 10 mg a day. With liver problems, usually 5 mg for the first two weeks. Follow your prescription. [1, 2]

Missed a dose?

If you remember within 12 hours, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip it. Never double up. [1]

Common side effects: how often?

People taking Escitalopram in the studies who reported each effect
NauseaAbout 1 in 715.0%
Trouble sleepingAbout 1 in 119.0%
DiarrhoeaAbout 1 in 138.0%
DrowsinessAbout 1 in 176.0%

Short-term adult depression studies; 10 mg and 20 mg combined. These are reports during treatment, not proof the medicine caused them; “1 in” figures are approximate. Tell your GP if effects are distressing or do not settle, including sexual problems. Do not drive if dizzy or drowsy. Urgent signs: page 2. [4, 1]

Use this guide with advice from your GP or pharmacist.
Sources [numbered above] and full guide: medications.alexanderqho.com/drugs/escitalopram
Sources checked: 3 October 2026. Published revision 2.
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medications+

Australian patient guide

Depression and anxietyPage 2 of 2

Escitalopram Brands include Lexapro and generic versions

Staying safe and planning ahead

Call 000 in an emergency

Immediate danger from thoughts of suicide or self-harm, a seizure, collapse, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, tongue or throat need emergency help. [1, 9]

Get urgent help the same day

Contact your GP or mental health team urgently for new or worse thoughts of suicide, severe agitation or restlessness, or unusually high mood. Seek urgent care for confusion with shaking, muscle jerks, sweating or fever; new confusion, weakness or unsteadiness; fainting or a fast, irregular heartbeat; black stools or unusual bleeding; or a sudden painful red eye. [1, 9]

Do not stop suddenly

Stopping suddenly can cause dizziness, “electric shock” feelings, anxiety, poor sleep or flu-like symptoms. Plan any stop with your GP; reducing may take weeks or months. [1, 9]

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk to your GP if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Untreated illness also has risks. Do not stop suddenly if you become pregnant; contact your GP to plan. [1]

Keep your healthcare team informed

Tell your GP and pharmacist about all medicines, including tramadol, migraine medicines, blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, reflux tablets and St John's wort. Expect an early review, usually within 1–2 weeks. This is not a complete list; read your medicine leaflet. [1, 9]

Notes for your next appointment