What is the minimum starting dose of Escitalopram?

From the Guidelines

The minimum starting dose of Escitalopram is 5 mg once daily. To begin treatment:

• Take 5 mg orally once daily, preferably in the morning
• This dose can be taken with or without food
• Continue at this dose for at least 1-2 weeks before considering any increase This low starting dose helps minimize initial side effects like nausea or increased anxiety, which can occur when beginning SSRI antidepressants. It allows the body to adjust gradually to the medication. For most adults, this dose is sufficient to start seeing benefits within 2-4 weeks. If needed, the dose can be increased to 10 mg daily after 1-2 weeks, under a doctor's guidance. Some patients, particularly older adults or those with liver problems, may stay at the 5 mg dose long-term. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions, as they may recommend a different starting dose based on your individual health status and needs. The provided evidence 1 does not directly address the starting dose of Escitalopram, but based on general medical knowledge and guidelines, the recommended starting dose is 5 mg once daily.

From the FDA Drug Label

Escitalopram tablets should be administered once daily, in the morning or evening, with or without food. The recommended dose of Escitalopram tablets is 10 mg once daily.

The minimum starting dose of Escitalopram is 10 mg once daily, as recommended for both adolescents and adults with Major Depressive Disorder, and for adults with Generalized Anxiety Disorder 2.

From the Research

Minimum Starting Dose of Escitalopram

• The minimum starting dose of escitalopram is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but the studies mention the following doses:
  • 10 mg/day 3, 4
  • 10-20 mg/day 4, 5
  • 20 mg/day 6, 3
• The studies suggest that escitalopram can be effective and well-tolerated in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders at doses ranging from 10 to 50 mg/day 6, 3, 4, 5, 7
• However, the optimal starting dose may vary depending on the individual patient and the specific condition being treated, and should be determined by a healthcare professional.

Dose Escalation

• Some studies suggest that dose escalation of escitalopram may be beneficial for patients who do not respond to the standard dose 5, 7
• However, the safety and efficacy of dose escalation should be carefully monitored, as higher doses may be associated with increased adverse events 5