Citanew is a brand name for the antidepressant medication called Escitalopram. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain. Escitalopram is used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder in adults and teenagers above the age of 12. It is also used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic disorder in adults.
The recommended starting dose of Escitalopram is usually 10mg per day, which can be increased up to 20mg per day, depending on the severity of the condition being treated. The medication is taken orally, with or without food, once a day, preferably in the morning or evening.
Like all antidepressants, Escitalopram can take several weeks to start working, and patients are advised to continue taking the medication even if they do not notice immediate improvement. Common side effects of Escitalopram include nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, and drowsiness. More serious side effects may include suicidal thoughts, seizures, and serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when too much serotonin builds up in the brain.
It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication, including Escitalopram, and to report any side effects or concerns during treatment.