Acipam Tablet

Introduction

Acipam Tablet 5 mg is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It is also used off-label for treatment of other disorders like fibromyalgia and migraine. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain, which helps to regulate mood and improve mood stability.

Uses

Acipam Tablet 5 mg is used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It may also be used to treat other conditions as prescribed by the doctor.

Brand Name	Acipam
Type	Tablet
Weight	5 mg
Generic	Escitalopram Oxalate
Manufacturer	Ibn Sina Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Acipam Tablet 5 mg works by selectively inhibiting serotonin reuptake transporter, resulting in prolonged serotonin activity in the brain. It increases serotonin levels, which helps regulate and improve mood.

How long does it take to work?

It can take up to two weeks for the full effect of Acipam Tablet 5 mg to take effect.

Absorption

Acipam Tablet 5 mg is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration, with peak concentrations occurring within 1-2 hours.

Route of Elimination

Acipam Tablet 5 mg is mainly eliminated in the urine via renal excretion.

Dosage

Safety of daily doses above 20 mg has not been demonstrated. Escitalopram Oxalate is administered as a single daily dose and may be taken with or without food.

Major depressive episodes: Usual dosage is 10 mg once daily. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg daily. Usually, 2-4 weeks are necessary to obtain an antidepressant response. After the symptoms resolve, treatment for at least 6 months is required for consolidation of the response.

Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia: An initial dose of 5 mg is recommended for the first week before increasing the dose to 10 mg daily. The dose may be further increased, up to a maximum of 20 mg daily, dependent on individual patient response. Maximum effectiveness is reached after about 3 months. The treatment lasts several months.

Social anxiety disorder: Usual dosage is 10 mg once daily. Usually, 2-4 weeks are necessary to obtain symptom relief. The dose may subsequently, depending on individual patient response, be decreased to 5 mg or increased to a maximum of 20 mg daily. Social anxiety disorder is a disease with a chronic course, and treatment for 12 weeks is recommended to consolidate response. Long-term treatment of responders has been studied for 6 months and can be considered on an individual basis to prevent relapse; treatment benefits should be re-evaluated at regular intervals. Social anxiety disorder is a well-defined diagnostic terminology of a specific disorder, which should not be confounded with excessive shyness. Pharmacotherapy is only indicated if the disorder interferes significantly with professional and social activities. The place of this treatment compared to cognitive behavioural therapy has not been assessed. Pharmacotherapy is part of an overall therapeutic strategy.

Generalised anxiety disorder: Initial dosage is 10 mg once daily. Depending on the individual patient response, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg daily. Long term treatment of responders has been studied for at least 6 months in patients receiving 20 mg/day. Treatment benefits and dose should be re-evaluated at regular intervals.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Initial dosage is 10 mg once daily. Depending on the individual patient response, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg daily. As OCD is a chronic disease, patients should be treated for a sufficient period to ensure that they are symptom-free. Treatment benefits and dose should be re-evaluated at regular intervals. The recommended dose for adults is 10 mg to 20 mg daily. Lower doses may be prescribed for elderly patients or people with kidney problems. The maximum recommended dosage is 20 mg.

Administration

Acipam Tablet 5 mg is generally taken orally once daily in the morning or evening, with or without food.

Side Effects

Some common side effects include nausea, headaches, dizziness, sleepiness, dry mouth, insomnia, and decreased appetite. More serious side effects are increased risk of suicide, increased bleeding, and serotonin syndrome.

Toxicity

Acipam Tablet 5 mg has not been associated with toxicity in therapeutic doses. Toxicity can occur with very high doses, leading to agitation, confusion, and seizures.

Precautions

Acipam Tablet 5 mg should be used with caution in patients with bipolar disorder, seizure disorder, or glaucoma. It should also be used with caution in pregnant or nursing women, and in children.

Interaction

Acipam Tablet 5 mg may interact with other medications, including MAO inhibitors, antipsychotics, and anti-seizure medications. It may also interact with certain foods or drinks such as alcohol and caffeine.

Disease Interactions

Acipam Tablet 5 mg can interact with certain diseases like bipolar disorder and seizure disorders as mentioned before, and can also interact with diseases like bleeding disorders, heart diseases, and liver diseases.

Drug Interactions

Acipam Tablet 5 mg may interact with other medications, like MAO inhibitors, antipsychotics, and anti-seizure medications.

Food Interactions

Acipam Tablet 5 mg can interact with certain foods or drinks such as alcohol and caffeine.

Pregnancy Use

Acipam Tablet 5 mg should not be used during pregnancy as it can increase the risk of birth defects.

Lactation Use

Acipam Tablet 5 mg should be used with caution in breastfeeding women as the drug can be secreted in breast milk.

Acute Overdose

Signs of an overdose may include drowsiness, confusion, seizures and coma.

Contraindications

Acipam Tablet 5 mg should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Acipam Tablet 5 mg.

Use Direction

Acipam Tablet 5 mg should be taken as directed by the prescriber. Generally, it is taken once a day, in the morning or evening, with or without food.

Storage Condition

Acipam Tablet 5 mg should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and light.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of escitalopram is 12.1 ± 10.6 L/kg.

Half-life

The half-life of escitalopram is 27 to 32 hours.

Clearance

The hepatic clearance of escitalopram is 0.2 L/hr/kg.

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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Acipam Tablet 5 mg

1. What is Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg is an antidepressant in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class, primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

2. How does Acipam Tablet 5 mg work?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, thereby increasing its levels and improving mood and anxiety symptoms.

3. What conditions is Acipam Tablet 5 mg used to treat?

It is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

4. How should I take Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg is usually taken once daily, with or without food. It is available in tablet and liquid form. Follow your doctor’s instructions for the proper dosage.

5. What is the recommended dosage for Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

The typical starting dose is 10 mg per day, which may be increased to 20 mg per day after a week, depending on your response and tolerance.

6. Can I take Acipam Tablet 5 mg with food?

Yes, Acipam Tablet 5 mg can be taken with or without food. It does not affect its efficacy.

7. What should I do if I miss a dose of Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

8. How long does it take for Acipam Tablet 5 mg to start working?

It can take several weeks (typically 2-4 weeks) to start noticing the full benefits of Acipam Tablet 5 mg, although some people may feel improvement in symptoms earlier.

9. What are the common side effects of Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

Common side effects may include:

Nausea
Headache
Insomnia
Sexual dysfunction
Dry mouth

10. What are the serious side effects of Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

Serious side effects include:

Suicidal thoughts or behaviors (particularly in young adults)
Serotonin syndrome (symptoms include agitation, hallucination, fever, and seizures)
Severe allergic reactions (rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat)
Low sodium levels (symptoms include headache, confusion, and weakness)

11. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause weight gain?

Some people may experience weight gain, but it is not a common side effect. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can help mitigate this risk.

12. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause drowsiness?

Yes, drowsiness or fatigue can occur, particularly when first starting the medication. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel drowsy.

13. Can I drink alcohol while taking Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Acipam Tablet 5 mg, as alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired judgment.

14. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg be used in children?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg can be prescribed to children 12 years and older for depression, but its use in younger children is not recommended due to concerns over safety and efficacy.

15. Can I stop taking Acipam Tablet 5 mg suddenly?

No, stopping abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, dizziness, nausea, and sensory disturbances. It’s important to taper off under the supervision of a doctor.

16. How long should I take Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

The duration of treatment varies. Some individuals may take it for several months or longer, while others may only need it for a shorter period. Always follow your doctor’s guidance regarding treatment duration.

17. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg be used during pregnancy?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult your doctor for guidance.

18. Can I take Acipam Tablet 5 mg while breastfeeding?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg is excreted in breast milk, and while it is considered relatively safe, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before using it during breastfeeding.

19. How should Acipam Tablet 5 mg be stored?

Store Acipam Tablet 5 mg at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.

20. What happens if I overdose on Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

An overdose can lead to symptoms such as drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, fast heart rate, and serotonin syndrome. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

21. Can I take Acipam Tablet 5 mg with other antidepressants?

Taking Acipam Tablet 5 mg with other antidepressants should only be done under the supervision of a doctor, as combining SSRIs with other antidepressants can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

22. Can I take Acipam Tablet 5 mg with other medications?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg may interact with various medications, including certain painkillers, blood thinners, and other antidepressants. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.

23. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause sexual problems?

Yes, sexual side effects such as decreased libido, delayed orgasm, or erectile dysfunction can occur in some individuals.

24. How should I handle missed doses of Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the time for your next dose. Never double up to make up for a missed dose.

25. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause suicidal thoughts?

Escitalopram, like other antidepressants, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in young adults. It is essential to monitor for changes in mood or behavior.

26. Is Acipam Tablet 5 mg effective for anxiety?

Yes, Acipam Tablet 5 mg is commonly prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder, as it helps to reduce excessive worry and nervousness.

27. Is Acipam Tablet 5 mg effective for depression?

Yes, Acipam Tablet 5 mg is effective in treating major depressive disorder by balancing serotonin levels in the brain, which improves mood and emotional well-being.

28. Can I switch from another antidepressant to Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

Switching from one antidepressant to another should always be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider to minimize withdrawal symptoms and potential interactions.

29. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause dizziness?

Dizziness can occur, particularly when standing up quickly. It’s important to rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to avoid feeling lightheaded.

30. Can I use Acipam Tablet 5 mg with a painkiller?

Escitalopram can be used with some painkillers, but caution is necessary when combining it with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or blood thinners, as this may increase the risk of bleeding.

31. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause dry mouth?

Dry mouth is a common side effect. Drinking water or using sugar-free gum can help alleviate this symptom.

32. What should I do if I experience severe side effects from Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

If you experience severe side effects such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or persistent dizziness, contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

33. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause nausea?

Nausea is a common side effect, especially when starting the medication. Taking it with food or at bedtime may help reduce this symptom.

34. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause headaches?

Headaches can occur, particularly when starting treatment. If headaches persist, consult your doctor for advice on managing them.

35. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg be used for insomnia?

Although Acipam Tablet 5 mg can help with anxiety and depression, it is not typically prescribed for insomnia. However, improvements in mood and anxiety may indirectly improve sleep.

36. How does Acipam Tablet 5 mg affect serotonin levels?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg increases serotonin levels in the brain by blocking its reuptake, which helps regulate mood, anxiety, and overall emotional well-being.

37. Is Acipam Tablet 5 mg safe for long-term use?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg is generally considered safe for long-term use under the supervision of a doctor, but regular check-ups are recommended to monitor for side effects.

38. Can I take Acipam Tablet 5 mg if I have a history of substance abuse?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg should be used with caution in individuals with a history of substance abuse, as it may have addictive properties in some cases. Consult with your doctor before starting treatment.

39. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg be used in combination with other anxiety medications?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg can be combined with other anxiety medications under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Combining drugs can help improve treatment effectiveness but should be done with caution.

40. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause increased sweating?

Increased sweating is a rare side effect of Acipam Tablet 5 mg. If this becomes bothersome, consult your healthcare provider.

41. Can I take Acipam Tablet 5 mg if I have a heart condition?

If you have a heart condition, consult your doctor before taking Acipam Tablet 5 mg. It may need to be adjusted or avoided in some cases.

42. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause trembling?

Tremors can occasionally occur, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. If tremors persist, inform your doctor.

43. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg be taken with other psychiatric medications?

Acipam Tablet 5 mg can be taken with other psychiatric medications, but careful monitoring by a healthcare provider is necessary to avoid interactions.

44. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg cause sleep disturbances?

While Acipam Tablet 5 mg can improve sleep by treating underlying anxiety and depression, some people may experience sleep disturbances such as insomnia or vivid dreams.

45. How should I stop taking Acipam Tablet 5 mg?

Do not stop taking Acipam Tablet 5 mg suddenly. Taper off gradually under your doctor’s guidance to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

46. Can Acipam Tablet 5 mg interact with herbal supplements?

Yes, herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort can interact with Acipam Tablet 5 mg, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. Consult your doctor before using any supplements.