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What is Cipralex®?

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers

Cipralex® is often used to treat major depressive disorder, which typically causes frequent periods of depression in patients. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI, which increases the levels of serotonin in the patient's brain, since low levels of this neurotransmitter can lead to depression. It is usually given in tablet form to be taken once per day. In addition to depression, it may be used to treat general anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or social anxiety. One of the most common side effects of this depression medication is nausea, but fatigue, fever, weight gain, dizziness, and sexual dysfunction are some other issues that may result from a regular dosage.

Most people taking Cipralex® do so to treat major depressive disorder, which usually includes frequent periods of depression. These bouts usually include symptoms like low libido, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and low interest in most activities. Of course, suicidal thoughts are often also present, along with changes in both sleeping patterns and appetite. Though patients suffering from depression do not necessarily have all of these symptoms, they typically display at least half of them. Such patients might find help through Cipralex® since it increases the amount of serotonin in the brain, often relieving symptoms of depression.

Serotonin in the brain binds with serotonin receptors located there.
Serotonin in the brain binds with serotonin receptors located there.

In most cases, Cipralex® is given in the form of a tablet to be taken orally once per day, though there are a few different strengths when it comes to this pill. The dosage and strength is typically determined by the doctor prescribing the medication, and is usually based on the severity of the disorder, among other factors. The tablet may be taken with or without food, and should not be doubled up if a patient misses a dose. This is because overdose can occur, with symptoms such as jitteriness, dizziness, seizures, nausea, vomiting, abnormal heart rate, lower blood pressure, and even coma.

Cipralex is used to treat periods of depression.
Cipralex is used to treat periods of depression.

Some patients taking Cipralex® may notice negative side effects that often include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weight gain. Patients may also shake violently, experience pain in the joints and muscles, have a fever, sweat excessively, and notice a runny nose. A decrease in libido, impotence, fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, and dry mouth can also occur in some patients taking this depression treatment. Though most side effects are more bothersome than harmful, they should typically be reported to a doctor, as the dosage may need to be lowered in some cases. The doctor may also be able to prescribe a different depression medication if it is deemed necessary.

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    • Serotonin in the brain binds with serotonin receptors located there.
      By: snyggg.de
      Serotonin in the brain binds with serotonin receptors located there.
    • Cipralex is used to treat periods of depression.
      By: mast3r
      Cipralex is used to treat periods of depression.
    • Cipralex may be used to treat certain anxiety disorders.
      By: David Stuart
      Cipralex may be used to treat certain anxiety disorders.
    • Cipralex is also known by its trade name, escitalopram.
      By: themalni
      Cipralex is also known by its trade name, escitalopram.
    • Nausea and vomiting are possible side effects of Cipralex.
      By: Alliance
      Nausea and vomiting are possible side effects of Cipralex.
    • Weight gain is a possible side effect of Cipralex.
      By: jedi-master
      Weight gain is a possible side effect of Cipralex.