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Is Citalopram The Same As Escitalopram?

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Posted on Mon, 17 Apr 2017
Question: ​My MD switched me from Citalopram HBR 40 MG once a day to Excitalopram 10 MG once a day once a day. The switch was made because Citalopram did not seem to be working. What is the difference between the two drugs.

Than you,
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary (29 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Escitaopram is more potent

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for using Healthcaremagic.

I read your query and understand your concerns.


As a group both escitalopram and citalopram are similar and have similar mechanism of action. Even the side effects and effects are quite similar for both molecules.

The most significant difference between these two medicines is potency. Escitalopram have almost two times potency in compare to citalopram. In addition few of side effects observed in regard to heart are less with escitalopram in compare to citalopram.

I hope this answers you.
If you have more questions feel free to write back to me.
Thanks and regards.
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2000

Answered : 3350 Questions

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Is Citalopram The Same As Escitalopram?

Brief Answer: Escitaopram is more potent Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for using Healthcaremagic. I read your query and understand your concerns. As a group both escitalopram and citalopram are similar and have similar mechanism of action. Even the side effects and effects are quite similar for both molecules. The most significant difference between these two medicines is potency. Escitalopram have almost two times potency in compare to citalopram. In addition few of side effects observed in regard to heart are less with escitalopram in compare to citalopram. I hope this answers you. If you have more questions feel free to write back to me. Thanks and regards.