Escitalopram

Definition

The active S-stereoisomer of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) citalopram with antidepressant, anti-obsessive-compulsive and antibulimic properties. Escitalopram inhibits the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) at the serotonin reuptake pump of the neuronal membrane of the presynaptic cell, thereby increasing levels of 5-HT within the synaptic cleft and enhancing the actions of serotonin on 5HT1A autoreceptors. Unlike other SSRIs, escitalopram appears to not only bind to a primary high-affinity site on the serotonin transporter protein but also to a secondary lower-affinity allosteric site that is considered to stabilize and prolong drug binding.

Also known as (S)-Citalopram, ESCITALOPRAM, S(+)-Citalopram, Seroplex — per NCIT

Also identified as

• ATC N06AB10 per RXNORM
• NCIT NCIT:C61754 per NCIT
• SCTID 395246009 per RXNORM
• SCTID 400447003 per RXNORM
• UNII 4O4S742ANY per RXNORM

Indications