Escitalopram : Interaction with Foods, Herbs & Alcohol

Last Updated on May 11, 2023

Are you taking Escitalopram? Are you aware of the dangers of combining Escitalopram with certain foods, herbs, or alcohol? Drug-food-interactions are seldom discussed but can lead to undesirable side effects and potentially diminish the efficacy of the medication.

Escitalopram Interactions with Food and Herbs

St.John's wort: Concurrent use of St. John's wort and Escitalopram may result in life threatening increase in serotonin and cause side effects such as agitation, diarrhea, fast heartbeat, high blood pressure, hallucinations, and increased body temperature ().

Escitalopram Interactions with Alcohol

Concurrent use of Escitalopram and alcohol may increase the cognitive and motor effects of alcohol ().

When and How to Take Escitalopram

Escitalopram is available in the form of tablet and liquid solution.
It is usually taken with or without food once daily.
Take Escitalopram around the same time every day.
Do not discontinue the medication without consulting the physician.
Sudden withdrawal of the drug may cause side effects such as mood changes, irritability, agitation, nausea, dizziness, burning, numbness in the hands or feet, anxiety, confusion, headache, sweating, shaking, abnormally excited mood, tiredness, and difficulty falling to sleep or staying awake.
Follow the instructions exactly as directed (3^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Escitalopram: Medlineplus Drug Information

Go to source).

References

1.St. John's Wort and Depression: In Depth
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/st-johns-wort-and-depression-in-depth
2.Escitalopram: Drug Information
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021323s047lbl.pdf
3.Escitalopram: Medlineplus Drug Information
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603005.html

Drug Name : Escitalopram

Escitalopram is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class, prescribed for major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, or panic disorder(significant behavioral change). It increases the amount of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance.

We recommend consulting your doctor to verify the information presented on this page or if you need any further clarifications.

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