Medications · FAQ
What serious warning signs should I watch for while taking escitalopram?
Short answer
Escitalopram can rarely cause serious problems, including serotonin syndrome, severe allergic reactions, or low sodium. Antidepressants also carry a warning about suicidal thoughts in children, teens, and young adults. Seek urgent help for severe symptoms or sudden mood changes. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.
Escitalopram carries a warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, teens, and young adults. Watch for worsening depression, new agitation, severe restlessness, or unusual behavior, especially early in treatment or after dose changes. People of any age should report these changes promptly.
Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening reaction. Warning signs can include fever, confusion, a fast heartbeat, heavy sweating, muscle stiffness or twitching, and diarrhea. The risk is higher with certain interacting medicines. Seek emergency care if these symptoms occur together or become severe.
Other serious warning signs include swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, fainting, seizures, or unusual bleeding. Low sodium may cause headache, weakness, confusion, or unsteadiness. Sudden eye pain or vision changes also need urgent evaluation. Very high energy with little sleep or risky behavior may signal mania and needs prompt medical attention.
If you are in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call 911 for immediate danger or a medical emergency. Do not wait for an online visit response.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.