Cipralex (escitalopram): Uses, Safety and Drug Interactions

Uses and the reviewed tablet

Cipralex is an SSRI antidepressant containing escitalopram. This summary concerns the 10 mg film-coated oral tablet, using current UK product information. Its licensed uses include depression and defined anxiety-related illnesses: panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalised anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. These are clinical diagnoses, not an indication to treat everyday shyness or temporary worry without assessment. Names and authorised indications vary internationally; a differently branded escitalopram product needs its own leaflet checked. The stated tablet strength does not determine an individual treatment plan.

Effects and warning signs

Benefit may take several weeks. Nausea, headache, sleep disturbance, sweating and sexual adverse effects can occur. Agitation or restlessness can be troublesome early in treatment. Tell the prescriber about past mania, epilepsy, liver or kidney problems, diabetes, or low sodium. Mood changes and self-harm thoughts need prompt attention, particularly in younger adults and after treatment changes. Seek urgent care for fainting or a markedly irregular heartbeat, seizures, severe allergy, or a combination of fever, agitation and muscle twitching.

Heart rhythm and other interactions

Escitalopram can prolong the QT interval. The UK label contraindicates use with known QT prolongation and with medicines known to prolong QT; this is important when reviewing antiarrhythmics, certain antibiotics, antipsychotics and some antihistamines. Low potassium or magnesium adds concern. Relevant monoamine oxidase inhibitors must not be combined with it. Tramadol, triptans and other serotonergic medicines can increase serotonin syndrome risk. Anti-inflammatory painkillers and anticoagulants can increase bleeding. Omeprazole and certain other enzyme inhibitors can increase escitalopram exposure. Ask a pharmacist to assess the actual medicines and doses rather than making changes yourself.

Withdrawal and reproductive considerations

Sudden withdrawal can cause dizziness, unusual sensations, anxiety, sleep problems and nausea. A planned reduction must be individualised by the prescriber. Discuss pregnancy and breastfeeding: late-pregnancy exposure can affect newborn adaptation, and SSRI exposure near delivery can increase maternal bleeding. Escitalopram is expected to enter breast milk, and the reviewed UK label does not recommend breastfeeding during treatment. Neither stopping treatment abruptly nor assuming treatment is risk-free is an appropriate response to pregnancy.

Sources

• Cipralex 10 mg tablets - UK SmPC - eMC updated 21 January 2026
• Cipralex tablets - UK patient leaflet - eMC updated 14 January 2026

Source check: 30 October 2026. This records a source check, not a clinical review by a doctor or pharmacist. Follow the leaflet supplied with your medicine and seek professional advice for personal treatment.