Nepram 10mg Tablet

Description

Nepram 10mg Tablet (Escitalopram 10mg) – Complete Reference

—

1. Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentration is reached within 3–4 hours.

Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues; plasma protein binding approximately 56%.

Metabolism: Extensively metabolized in the liver mainly via CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4 enzymes.

Excretion: Eliminated through urine and feces as metabolites.

Half-life: Approximately 27–32 hours, allowing once-daily dosing.

Special Populations: Reduced clearance in elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment; dose adjustment may be required.

 

—

2. Pharmacodynamics

Class: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI).

Action: Increases serotonin levels in the central nervous system by inhibiting its reuptake into presynaptic neurons.

Effect: Improves mood, reduces anxiety, and stabilizes emotional balance.

 

—

3. Mechanism of Action

Escitalopram selectively blocks serotonin (5-HT) reuptake transporters.

This leads to increased serotonin availability in the synaptic cleft, enhancing neurotransmission and improving symptoms of depression and anxiety.

 

—

4. Specification

Form: Film-coated tablet

Strength: Escitalopram 10mg

Appearance: Round/oval tablet (appearance may vary by manufacturer)

Route: Oral

 

—

5. Clinical Indications

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Panic disorder (with or without agoraphobia)

Social anxiety disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

 

—

6. Dosage and Administration

Adults:
10mg once daily; dose may be increased up to 20mg if clinically required.

Elderly:
Start with 5mg once daily; maximum recommended dose is 10mg/day.

Administration:
Can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.

Treatment Duration:
Several weeks may be required for full therapeutic effect.

 

—

7. Precautions

Use with caution in patients with:

Hepatic impairment

Renal impairment

Epilepsy

Bipolar disorder

Avoid abrupt discontinuation to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

 

—

8. Warnings

Suicidal Thoughts: Increased risk in young adults during initial treatment.

Serotonin Syndrome: Risk when combined with other serotonergic agents.

QT Prolongation: Caution in patients with cardiac conditions.

Withdrawal Symptoms: Gradual dose tapering is recommended when stopping therapy.

 

—

9. Side Effects

Common:

Nausea

Headache

Insomnia or somnolence

Dry mouth

Increased sweating

Fatigue

Serious (rare):

Suicidal ideation

Serotonin syndrome

QT prolongation

Hyponatremia

Seizures

 

—

10. Drug Interactions

MAO inhibitors (contraindicated)

Other SSRIs or antidepressants

Triptans and serotonin-enhancing drugs

Anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk)

Alcohol (use discouraged)

 

—

11. Storage and Stability

Store below 30°C

Protect from moisture and light

Keep out of reach of children

Shelf-life: 2–3 years

 

—

12. Additional Notes

Not habit-forming.

Regular follow-up is recommended during treatment.

Patient Advice: Do not stop medication suddenly; report mood changes, agitation, or suicidal thoughts immediately