Escitalopram + Flupenthixol

Dosage Forms Available

• Escitalopram + Flupenthixol is available as an oral dosage form, specifically in the form of tablets.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• The use of Escitalopram + Flupenthixol is intended for adults above the age of 18 years.

Contraindications

• This combination medicine is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to either Escitalopram or Flupenthixol.

• It is also not advisable for patients with acute narrow-angle glaucoma or those diagnosed or suspected of having pheochromocytoma.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Escitalopram + Flupenthixol can interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (such as phenelzine and selegiline), antipsychotics (like risperidone and haloperidol), anticonvulsants (such as phenytoin and gabapentin), and NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen).

• Before starting any new prescription or over-the-counter medication, it is vital that you consult your doctor to prevent potential harmful interactions.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Escitalopram + Flupenthixol can result in symptoms such as drowsiness, agitation, tremor, and tachycardia. If you observe these symptoms, immediately inform your doctor.

• If you forget to take a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take two doses at the same time or extra doses.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve after discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For mild nausea, try taking this medication with food.

• For dry mouth, sipping water regularly may help.

• If you experience dizziness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

• For constipation, ensure to stay hydrated and eat fibre-rich foods.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medication may cause drowsiness and affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. It is advisable to refrain from such activities until you are sure about how this medicine affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Escitalopram + Flupenthixol is not recommended for use during pregnancy and lactation, unless prescribed by a doctor. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with liver impairment should exercise caution when taking this medicine as it can lead to increased exposure to both escitalopram and flupenthixol.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

• Engage in regular physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week, which can help manage depressive symptoms.

• Limit alcohol consumption because it can potentially increase the risk of adverse effects associated with this medication.

• Try to ensure a regular sleep pattern to help manage symptoms of depression and psychotic conditions.

• Engage in stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga, which can benefit overall mental health.