Difference Between Escitalopram and Citalopram

Escitalopram (Lexapro)vs Citalopram (Celexa)

Escitalopram and Citalopram are very frequently described drugs. These drugs are used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorders and OCD also known as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. There are lots of similarities between the two drugs as well as slight differences.

Escitalopram

Escitalopram is commonly sold under the trade nameLexapro。这种药物经常被处方为焦虑，抑郁，强迫症和恐慌症的药物。该药物通过增加大脑内部某些化学物质的活性来对各种心理健康问题有效。但是有一种趋势，即苏联可能会在实际开处方减少药物时加剧人的抑郁症感觉。应该仔细注意一个正在服药的人，因为在使用开始时，自我伤害和自杀感很高。药物的剂量应经常由医生监测，并根据反应水平而有所不同。该药物解决了特殊和敏感的心理健康问题；因此，不应与没有医疗批准的任何人共享。

The drug is very strong; therefore, it is not prescribed to people over 65, people who are allergic, under electroconvulsive therapy, diabetic, epileptic, who have a history of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, or people having weak heart, liver, or kidneys, or people who have or had mania. Escitalopram is not given to patients under 18 years old. Escitalopram can affect concentration. It is advisable to stay away from operating machinery and driving while under medication. Alcohol use is not encouraged because it may increase side effects. When Escitalopram is taken during pregnancy, the baby may suffer from serotogenic or withdrawal symptoms after birth. For men, the drug can cause infertility as it reduces sperm production. Some medicine like antihistamines, antimicrobials, antipsychotics, medicine affecting central nervous system, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, other antidepressants etc. should not be taken simultaneously because they can interact and cause complications.

Citalopram

Citalopram is commonly known by the trade nameCelexa。This is also a drug used to treat the same mental health issues mentioned earlier. Citalopram also has the ability to increase thoughts of self-harm, suicide and depression symptoms. Proper and close attention should be given to a patient who is taking the medicine. The same limitations mentioned for Escitalopram earlier applies for Citalopram, as well. Both these drugs belong to the drug class of selected serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Serotonin is a chemical used in nerve- signaling. Apart from the side effects shown by Escitalopram, Citalopram also shows nausea, sexual dysfunction and some other side effects.

What is the difference between Escitalopram and Citalopram?

• Escitalopram and Citalopram are structurally similar but enantiomers of each other (mirror images).

• Escitalopram has less side effects and low occurrence rate compared to Citalopram.

• Escitalopram has a shorter half-life than Citalopram.

• Escitalopram is preferred over Citalopram when treating general anxiety disorder.

• Citalopram is also used to treat menopause mood shifts.

•这些药物的价格和处方率也有所不同。（医生更喜欢依他张）。