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Prescribed by a healthcare provider experienced in treating anxiety & depression, if appropriate
Unlimited provider messaging
Unlimited dosage adjustments
What is escitalopram?
Escitalopram is a prescription drug and an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) that helps balance a chemical naturally found in the brain called serotonin. The Food and Drug Administration first approved escitalopram in 2002 and it is the generic name for the brand name Lexapro®.
Escitalopram uses
Escitalopram is FDA approved for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD).
How escitalopram works
Escitalopram increases levels of a mood-enhancing chemical called serotonin in the brain. Like other SSRIs, citalopram lowers the level of serotonin that neurons reabsorb, which results in more free serotonin in the brain. For some, this can ease their symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Escitalopram drug interactions
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs, such as linezolid, phenelzine, etc), increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a mild to life-threatening build up of serotonin in the system. Similarly, escitalopram can interact with other agents that affect serotonin in the brain, such as tricyclic antidepressants, certain pain medications, supplements that contain St. John's Wort or tryptophan. Be prepared to share all prescription and over the counter medications, as well as any other products you take, with your provider.
* Only available if prescribed after an online consultation with a healthcare provider.
* Controlled substances such as Xanax and Adderall are not available through our platform.
* This page has been medically reviewed by Sylvia Valadez, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC.
How to get escitalopram online with Hims
1. Simple consultation
Complete an online mental health assessment and intake form, then connect with a healthcare provider through our platform.
2. Free delivery
Get escitalopram shipped to you for free, if prescribed.
3. Ongoing support
Enjoy secure, ongoing support 100% online—including refills and unlimited dosage adjustments.
Escitalopram 101
What’s an SSRI?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a type of antidepressant that work by increasing levels of a mood-affecting chemical called serotonin in the brain which helps to improve your symptoms. Nice, right?
The science of escitalopram
Your brain naturally produces chemicals that make you feel good, like serotonin. Escitalopram keeps neurons from reabsorbing this chemical so that you have more of it available in your brain. Long story short? This can help to relieve symptoms of depression.
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Real results from guys like you
These customers’ results have not been independently verified. Individual results will vary. Customers were given free product.
75%
Felt better
Over 75% of Hims customers who checked in with their provider reported improvements in their mental health symptoms.*
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* Results vary. Data were self-reported between 11/26/2021 and 08/01/2022 by Hims customers who 1) signed up between 11/04/2021 and 05/04/2022; 2) were prescribed antidepressant medication by a provider after their first consultation on the Hims platform; and 3) had an active subscription for such antidepressant medication through the Hims platform within 90 days after signing up.
You’re in good hands
Before they're accepted to the pool of professionals we work with, all healthcare providers undergo a rigorous vetting process. They have years of experience and they’re ready to help with whatever you’re going through.
Frequently asked questions about escitalopram
How long does it take for escitalopram (generic for Lexapro) to work?
Escitalopram was shown to be effective as a treatment for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder in clinical trials lasting 8 weeks. If you are not feeling any improvement in your condition, you should consult your healthcare provider. You should not discontinue your medication until you speak with your healthcare provider.
What are the dosage options?
Escitalopram is prescribed in strengths of 5mg, 10mg and 20mg tablets.
How do I take escitalopram?
Escitalopram should be taken exactly as directed by the healthcare provider. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as directed. Escitalopram should not be stopped without first consulting with a healthcare provider, as stopping too quickly could cause adverse events or symptoms.
How do I know if I am a good candidate for this drug?
You will need to consult with a healthcare provider to evaluate you and determine if escitalopram is appropriate.
Who cannot or should not take this drug?
Examples include but are not limited to:
people with a known allergy to escitalopram, citalopram or any of its active ingredients
people with severe renal impairment
people on MAOIs
people who are breastfeeding/producing breast milk
people with heart problems
How do you buy escitalopram online?
Consultation with a psychiatrist or other qualified psychiatry provider through our platform. If prescribed escitalopram, genuine escitalopram will be shipped to you discreetly. You’ll have ongoing check-ins with a psychiatry provider to evaluate whether your treatment plan is working.
What are the side effects of escitalopram?
The most common side effects of escitalopram include:
nausea
somnolence (excessive sleepiness)
weakness
dizziness
feeling anxious
trouble sleeping
sexual dysfunction
sweating
shaking
loss of appetite
dry mouth
constipation
infection
yawning
More serious side effects include:
increased risk of QT prolongation (lengthened recovery time between heartbeats)
increased risk of developing glaucoma
suicidal thoughts
Discuss any adverse effects you experience with your healthcare professional and ensure discontinuation of escitalopram or adjustment of dosing as recommended.
What are potential drug interactions with escitalopram?
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs, such as linezolid, phenelzine, etc), increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a mild to a life-threatening build-up of serotonin in the system. A combination of MAOIs with escitalopram could lead to a spike in blood pressure, sudden rise in body temperature or severe seizures. Similarly, escitalopram can interact with other agents that affect serotonin in the brain, such as tricyclic antidepressants, certain pain medications, supplements that contain St. John's Wort or tryptophan. Be prepared to share all prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any other products you take, with your provider. Seek medical advice before combining any drugs with escitalopram treatment.
Prescription products require an online consultation with a healthcare provider who will determine if a prescription is appropriate.
Can you take escitalopram (generic for Lexapro) for bipolar disorder?
Under close advisory, some healthcare professionals will prescribe low doses of escitalopram for mood stabilizing, such as in the treatment of bipolar disorder. However, the hims platform does not treat bipolar disorder and will only prescribe escitalopram to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder.
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