The elimination half-life of escitalopram is about hours and is consistent with once-daily administration. Steady-state concentrations are achieved within days of administration. Unmetabolised escitalopram is the major compound in plasma.
S-demethylcitalopram S-DCT , the principal metabolite, is present at approximately one-third the level of escitalopram; however, S-DCT is a weak inhibitor of serotonin reuptake and does not contribute appreciably to the therapeutic activity of escitalopram. The didemethyl metabolite of escitalopram S-DDCT is typically present at or below quantifiable concentrations.
Adolescents, elderly individuals and patients with hepatic impairment do not have clinically relevant differences in pharmacokinetics compared with healthy young adults, implying that adjustment of the dosage is not necessary in these patient groups.
However, ritonavir, a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4, does not affect the pharmacokinetics of escitalopram. These changes were not considered clinically relevant. In vitro studies have shown that escitalopram has negligible inhibitory effects on CYP isoenzymes and P-glycoprotein, suggesting that escitalopram is unlikely to cause clinically significant drug-drug interactions.
Your age. Research shows that age can often play a role in medication half-life. If you are elderly, it may take your body longer or less time to metabolize and excrete each dose of Lexapro.
Your liver and kidney health. Lexapro, like many other medications, is processed by the liver and kidneys. If you have liver or kidney health issues, your body may need a longer amount of time to metabolize and excrete this medication.
Stopping Lexapro suddenly may cause a range of withdrawal symptoms that are often referred to as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. If you abruptly stop taking Lexapro or reduce your dose, you may experience symptoms , including — but not limited to — the following:.
Your healthcare provider may recommend gradually lowering or tapering your dose of Lexapro over the course of several weeks or months.
This may help to reduce your risk of experiencing withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of depression or anxiety. Escitalopram, the active ingredient in Lexapro, is one of the most common SSRIs used to treat depression and anxiety. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice.
Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Insider tips, early access and more. Top Treatments. Top Conditions Erectile Dysfunction. Mental Health. What Is the Half-Life of Lexapro?
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