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It is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal & perennial allergic rhinitis. It is also indicated for the treatment of the uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria and allergen induced asthma.

Sedating Anti-histamine

Cetirizine Hydrochloride is a potent H1 receptor antagonist without any significant anticholinergic and antiserotonic effects. At pharmacologically active dose levels, it has almost no drowsiness effect and does not cause behavioral changes. It inhibits the histamine-mediated early phase of the allergic reaction and also reduces the migration of inflammatory cells and the release of mediators associated with the late phase of the allergic reaction.

Pharmacokinetics: Cetirizine 10 mg achieves peak plasma concentrations of 257 mcg/L within one hour of administration (980 mcg/L in children). Food does not affect the extent of absorption, but it may slightly reduce the rate. Peak blood levels 0.3 micrograms/ml are reached between thirty & sixty minutes after administration of 10 mg dose of Cetirizine. Its plasma half-life is approximately 11 hours. Absorption is very consistent from one subject to the next. Its renal clearance is 30 ml/minute and the excretion half-life is approximately nine hours.

Adults and Children 6 years and older: 1 tablet or 2 teaspoonfuls daily (or 1 teaspoonful twice daily).

Children 2-6 years: 1 teaspoonful once daily or 1/2 teaspoonful twice daily.

Children 6 months to 2 years : 1/2 teaspoonful once daily. The dose in children 12-23 months of age can be increased to a maximum dose as 1/2 teaspoonful every 12 hours.

The most common side effects that occurred more frequently on Cetirizine is somnolence.

It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Cetirizine or hydroxyzine.

Caution should be exercised when driving a car or operating a heavy machinery.

No clinically significant drug interactions have been found with Theophylline, Azithromycin, Pseudoephedrine, Ketoconazole or Erythromycin and with other drugs.

US FDA Pregnancy Category of Cetirizine Hydrochloride is B. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cetirizine Hydrochloride has been shown to be excreted in human milk. So, caution should be exercised when Cetirizine Hydrochloride is administered to a nursing woman.

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

It is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal & perennial allergic rhinitis. It is also indicated for the treatment of the uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria and allergen induced asthma.

Sedating Anti-histamine

Cetirizine Hydrochloride is a potent H1 receptor antagonist without any significant anticholinergic and antiserotonic effects. At pharmacologically active dose levels, it has almost no drowsiness effect and does not cause behavioral changes. It inhibits the histamine-mediated early phase of the allergic reaction and also reduces the migration of inflammatory cells and the release of mediators associated with the late phase of the allergic reaction.

Pharmacokinetics: Cetirizine 10 mg achieves peak plasma concentrations of 257 mcg/L within one hour of administration (980 mcg/L in children). Food does not affect the extent of absorption, but it may slightly reduce the rate. Peak blood levels 0.3 micrograms/ml are reached between thirty & sixty minutes after administration of 10 mg dose of Cetirizine. Its plasma half-life is approximately 11 hours. Absorption is very consistent from one subject to the next. Its renal clearance is 30 ml/minute and the excretion half-life is approximately nine hours.

Adults and Children 6 years and older: 1 tablet or 2 teaspoonfuls daily (or 1 teaspoonful twice daily).

Children 2-6 years: 1 teaspoonful once daily or 1/2 teaspoonful twice daily.

Children 6 months to 2 years : 1/2 teaspoonful once daily. The dose in children 12-23 months of age can be increased to a maximum dose as 1/2 teaspoonful every 12 hours.

The most common side effects that occurred more frequently on Cetirizine is somnolence.

It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Cetirizine or hydroxyzine.

Caution should be exercised when driving a car or operating a heavy machinery.

No clinically significant drug interactions have been found with Theophylline, Azithromycin, Pseudoephedrine, Ketoconazole or Erythromycin and with other drugs.

US FDA Pregnancy Category of Cetirizine Hydrochloride is B. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cetirizine Hydrochloride has been shown to be excreted in human milk. So, caution should be exercised when Cetirizine Hydrochloride is administered to a nursing woman.

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

It is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal & perennial allergic rhinitis. It is also indicated for the treatment of the uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria and allergen induced asthma.

Sedating Anti-histamine

Cetirizine Hydrochloride is a potent H1 receptor antagonist without any significant anticholinergic and antiserotonic effects. At pharmacologically active dose levels, it has almost no drowsiness effect and does not cause behavioral changes. It inhibits the histamine-mediated early phase of the allergic reaction and also reduces the migration of inflammatory cells and the release of mediators associated with the late phase of the allergic reaction.

Pharmacokinetics: Cetirizine 10 mg achieves peak plasma concentrations of 257 mcg/L within one hour of administration (980 mcg/L in children). Food does not affect the extent of absorption, but it may slightly reduce the rate. Peak blood levels 0.3 micrograms/ml are reached between thirty & sixty minutes after administration of 10 mg dose of Cetirizine. Its plasma half-life is approximately 11 hours. Absorption is very consistent from one subject to the next. Its renal clearance is 30 ml/minute and the excretion half-life is approximately nine hours.

Adults and Children 6 years and older: 1 tablet or 2 teaspoonfuls daily (or 1 teaspoonful twice daily).

Children 2-6 years: 1 teaspoonful once daily or 1/2 teaspoonful twice daily.

Children 6 months to 2 years : 1/2 teaspoonful once daily. The dose in children 12-23 months of age can be increased to a maximum dose as 1/2 teaspoonful every 12 hours.

The most common side effects that occurred more frequently on Cetirizine is somnolence.

It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Cetirizine or hydroxyzine.

Caution should be exercised when driving a car or operating a heavy machinery.

No clinically significant drug interactions have been found with Theophylline, Azithromycin, Pseudoephedrine, Ketoconazole or Erythromycin and with other drugs.

US FDA Pregnancy Category of Cetirizine Hydrochloride is B. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cetirizine Hydrochloride has been shown to be excreted in human milk. So, caution should be exercised when Cetirizine Hydrochloride is administered to a nursing woman.

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Ciclesonide nasal spray is indicated for the treatment of the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients aged 6 years and older and perennial allergic rhinitis in patients aged 12 years and older.

Respiratory corticosteroids

Ciclesonide nasal spray is a corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory activity. It is an aqueous suspension of ciclesonide for topical administration to the nasal mucosa by means of a metering and atomizing spray pump. It is necessary to prime the pump before first use or after a period of non-use (4 days or more).

1 spray (50 micrograms/spray) in each nostril once a day. The maximum total daily dosage should not exceed 2 sprays in each nostril (200 micrograms/day).

Priming information: Gently shake the bottle and prime Ciclesonide nasal spray by actuating eight times before using for the first time or when not used for 4 consecutive days.

How to use the Nasal Spray-

• Shake the bottle gently and remove the dust cover.
• Hold the spray with your forefinger and middle finger on either side of the nozzle and your thumb underneath the bottle. Press down until a fine spray appears. If using for the first time or if you have not used it for a week or more, press the nasal applicator several times until a fine moist comes out from the container.
• Gently blow the nose to clear the nostrils.
• Close one nostril and carefully insert the nasal applicator into the open nostril. Tilt your head forward slightly and keep the spray upright. Breathe in through your nose and while breathing in, press the white-collar of nasal applicator firmly down once to release a spray.
• Breathe out through your mouth.
• Repeat the above steps in the same/ other nostril for consecutive doses.

Cleaning: The nasal spray should be cleaned at least once a week. The procedures are as follows-

• Remove the dust cover.
• Gently pull off the nasal applicator.
• Wash the applicator and dust cover in warm water.
• Shake off the excess water and leave to dry in a normal place. Avoid to apply additional heat.
• Gently push the applicator back on the top of the bottle and re-fix the dust cover.

Ciclesonide nasal spray is absorbed less into rest of the body; therefore fewer side effects are seen. However, few side-effects like headache, dizziness, nosebleed, stuffy nose, earache may occur.

Ciclesonide nasal spray should be used with caution in patients with active or quiescent tuberculosis infection of the respiratory tract or in patients with untreated fungal, bacterial or systemic viral infections or ocular herpes simplex. Rare instances of nasal septal perforation, cataract, and glaucoma have been reported following intranasal application. Development of localized infections of the nose and pharynx with Candida albicans has rarely occurred. Although systemic effects have been minimal with recommended doses of Ciclesonide nasal spray, potential risk increases with larger doses. Therefore, larger than recommended doses of Ciclesonide nasal spray should be avoided.

Pregnancy category C. Ciclesonide nasal spray should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk of the fetus. It is not known if Ciclesonide is excreted in human milk. Because other corticosteroids are excreted in human milk, caution should be used when administered to nursing women.

Store at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Do not refrigerate. Protect from light and moisture. Keep away from eyes. Keep out of the reach of children. The bottle should be discarded after 120 actuations or 4 months after opening the pouch.

Other beta-lactam Antibiotics

Imipenem acts as an antimicrobial through the inhibition of cell wall synthesis of various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. This inhibition of cell wall synthesis in gram-negative bateria is attained by binding to pencillin binding proteins (PBPs). In E. coli and selected strains of P. aeruginosa, imipenem has shown to have the highest affinity to PBP-2, PBP-1a, and PBP-1b. This preferential binding to PBP-2 and PBP-1b results in the direct conversion of the individual cell to a spheroblast, which leads to rapid cell lysis and death without filament formation.

Cilastatin is a specific and reversible renal dehydropeptidase-I inhibitor. Since the antibiotic, imipenem, is hydrolyzed by dehydropeptidase-I, which resides in the brush border of the renal tubule, cilastatin is administered with imipenem to block the metabolism and thus the inactivation of imipenem so that antibacterial levels of imipenem can be attained in the urine. The drug also prevents the metabolism of leukotriene D4 to leukotriene E4 through the inhibition of leukotriene D4 dipeptidase.

The total daily dosage of Imipenem should be based on the type or severity of infection and given in equally divided doses based on consideration of degree of susceptibility of the pathogens, renal function and body-weight.

Imipenem & Cilastatin IV: Up to 500 mg dose should be given over 20 to 30 minutes; > 500 mg dose should be infused over 40 to 60 minutes. In patients who develop nausea during the infusion, the rate of infusion may be slowed.

Adult: Normal daily dose is 1-2 g administered in 3-4 divided doses. For the treatment of moderate infection, a 1 g b.i.d. dosage regimen may also be used. In infections due to less susceptible organisms, the daily dosage may be increased to a maximum of 4 g/day or 50 mg/kg/day, whichever is lower.

• Mild infection: 250 mg 6 hourly (1 gm/day)
• Moderate infection: 500 mg 8 hourly or 1 gm 12 hourly (1.5-2 gm/day)
• Severe infection with fully susceptible microorganism: 500 mg 6 hourly (2gm/day)
• Severe infection with less susceptible organisms (primarily some strains of P. aeruginosa): 1 gm 3-4 times daily (3-4 gm/day)

Paediatric Dosing Schedule:

• ≥ 3 months of age: the recommended dose for non-CNS infections is 15-25 mg/kg/dose administered every six hours. The maximum daily dose for treatment of infections with fully susceptible organisms is 2.0 g per day, and of infections with moderately susceptible organisms is 4.0 g/day. Higher doses (up to 90 mg/kg/day in older children) have been used in patients with cystic fibrosis.
• ≤3 months of age: Following dosage schedule is recommended for non-CNS infections:
• <1 week of age: 25 mg/kg every 12 hrs
• 1-4 weeks of age: 25 mg/kg every 8 hrs
• 4 weeks-3 months of age: 25 mg/kg every 6 hrs.

Imipenem is not recommended for the therapy of meningitis. If meningitis is suspected, an appropriate antibiotic should be used. Imipenem and cilastatin for injection is not recommended in pediatric patients <30 kg with impaired renal function, as no data are available.

Most common side effects with imipenem are nausea and vomiting. Other side effects reported with this drug are diarrhea, rash, thrombophlebitis, thrombocytosis, neutro-penia, eosinophilia and derangements of liver and renal functions. Use of imipenem is not recommended for patient with history of anaphylactic reaction with penicillin.

Contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated hypersensitivity to this product.

Caution when used in patients with known hypersensitivity to other β-lactams due to possibility of cross-sensitivity. CNS disorders such as epilepsy; renal, hepatic impairment; pregnancy, lactation.

Concurrent admin with probenecid may increase the half-life of cilastatin. Increased risk of generalised seizures when used concurrently with ganciclovir.

Pregnancy: Category C. There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Cispenam should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation: Imipenem has been detected in human milk. If the use of Cispenam is deemed essential, the patient should stop nursing.

Dosage adjustment in renal impairment:

• CrCl >71: No changes.
• CrCl 41-70: Max 37.5 mg/kg/day or 3 g/day. (Range: 9.4 - 37.5 mg/kg/day) divided q6-8h.
• CrCl 21-40: Max 25 mg/kg/day or 2 g/day. (Range: 6.25 - 25 mg/kg/day) divided q6-12h.
• CrCl 6-20: Max 12.5 mg/kg/day (max dose 1 g/day). Range: 6.25 - 12.5 mg/kg/day) divided q12h. (Usual: 250mg q12h)
• Dialysis Hemodialysis: 125 - 500 mg q12h. (Max 12.5 mg/kg/day). Give dose after dialysis.
• Peritonial Dialysis: 125 - 250 mg q12h

In the case of overdosage, discontinue Imipenem/Cilastatin, treat symptomatically, and institute supportive measures as required. Imipenem/Cilastatin Sodium is hemodialyzable.

Other beta-lactam Antibiotics

Imipenem acts as an antimicrobial through the inhibition of cell wall synthesis of various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. This inhibition of cell wall synthesis in gram-negative bateria is attained by binding to pencillin binding proteins (PBPs). In E. coli and selected strains of P. aeruginosa, imipenem has shown to have the highest affinity to PBP-2, PBP-1a, and PBP-1b. This preferential binding to PBP-2 and PBP-1b results in the direct conversion of the individual cell to a spheroblast, which leads to rapid cell lysis and death without filament formation.

Cilastatin is a specific and reversible renal dehydropeptidase-I inhibitor. Since the antibiotic, imipenem, is hydrolyzed by dehydropeptidase-I, which resides in the brush border of the renal tubule, cilastatin is administered with imipenem to block the metabolism and thus the inactivation of imipenem so that antibacterial levels of imipenem can be attained in the urine. The drug also prevents the metabolism of leukotriene D4 to leukotriene E4 through the inhibition of leukotriene D4 dipeptidase.

The total daily dosage of Imipenem should be based on the type or severity of infection and given in equally divided doses based on consideration of degree of susceptibility of the pathogens, renal function and body-weight.

Imipenem & Cilastatin IV: Up to 500 mg dose should be given over 20 to 30 minutes; > 500 mg dose should be infused over 40 to 60 minutes. In patients who develop nausea during the infusion, the rate of infusion may be slowed.

Adult: Normal daily dose is 1-2 g administered in 3-4 divided doses. For the treatment of moderate infection, a 1 g b.i.d. dosage regimen may also be used. In infections due to less susceptible organisms, the daily dosage may be increased to a maximum of 4 g/day or 50 mg/kg/day, whichever is lower.

• Mild infection: 250 mg 6 hourly (1 gm/day)
• Moderate infection: 500 mg 8 hourly or 1 gm 12 hourly (1.5-2 gm/day)
• Severe infection with fully susceptible microorganism: 500 mg 6 hourly (2gm/day)
• Severe infection with less susceptible organisms (primarily some strains of P. aeruginosa): 1 gm 3-4 times daily (3-4 gm/day)

Paediatric Dosing Schedule:

• ≥ 3 months of age: the recommended dose for non-CNS infections is 15-25 mg/kg/dose administered every six hours. The maximum daily dose for treatment of infections with fully susceptible organisms is 2.0 g per day, and of infections with moderately susceptible organisms is 4.0 g/day. Higher doses (up to 90 mg/kg/day in older children) have been used in patients with cystic fibrosis.
• ≤3 months of age: Following dosage schedule is recommended for non-CNS infections:
• <1 week of age: 25 mg/kg every 12 hrs
• 1-4 weeks of age: 25 mg/kg every 8 hrs
• 4 weeks-3 months of age: 25 mg/kg every 6 hrs.

Imipenem is not recommended for the therapy of meningitis. If meningitis is suspected, an appropriate antibiotic should be used. Imipenem and cilastatin for injection is not recommended in pediatric patients <30 kg with impaired renal function, as no data are available.

Most common side effects with imipenem are nausea and vomiting. Other side effects reported with this drug are diarrhea, rash, thrombophlebitis, thrombocytosis, neutro-penia, eosinophilia and derangements of liver and renal functions. Use of imipenem is not recommended for patient with history of anaphylactic reaction with penicillin.

Contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated hypersensitivity to this product.

Caution when used in patients with known hypersensitivity to other β-lactams due to possibility of cross-sensitivity. CNS disorders such as epilepsy; renal, hepatic impairment; pregnancy, lactation.

Concurrent admin with probenecid may increase the half-life of cilastatin. Increased risk of generalised seizures when used concurrently with ganciclovir.

Pregnancy: Category C. There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Cispenam should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation: Imipenem has been detected in human milk. If the use of Cispenam is deemed essential, the patient should stop nursing.

Dosage adjustment in renal impairment:

• CrCl >71: No changes.
• CrCl 41-70: Max 37.5 mg/kg/day or 3 g/day. (Range: 9.4 - 37.5 mg/kg/day) divided q6-8h.
• CrCl 21-40: Max 25 mg/kg/day or 2 g/day. (Range: 6.25 - 25 mg/kg/day) divided q6-12h.
• CrCl 6-20: Max 12.5 mg/kg/day (max dose 1 g/day). Range: 6.25 - 12.5 mg/kg/day) divided q12h. (Usual: 250mg q12h)
• Dialysis Hemodialysis: 125 - 500 mg q12h. (Max 12.5 mg/kg/day). Give dose after dialysis.
• Peritonial Dialysis: 125 - 250 mg q12h

In the case of overdosage, discontinue Imipenem/Cilastatin, treat symptomatically, and institute supportive measures as required. Imipenem/Cilastatin Sodium is hemodialyzable.

Cisplatin is indicated as first line therapy for lung cancer, head & neck cancer and for the treatment of advanced and metastatic ovarian carcinoma, bladder carcinoma and testis carcinoma.

Cytotoxic Chemotherapy

Cisplatin modifies cell cycle by interfering with DNA structure and function. Effects are most prominent during the S phase but cells are killed at all stages. Cisplatin synergises with other anticancer drugs e.g. fluorouracil. It has a narrow therapeutic margin and is highly toxic.

Metastatic ovarian cancer: As monotherapy: 100 mg/m² per cycle, given as a single dose infused in 0.9% sodium chloride or glucose once every 4 wk. For combination therapy with cyclophosphamide: 75-100 mg/m² on day 1 of every 4-wk cycle.

Metastatic testicular tumours: 20 mg/m² BSA daily for 5 days per cycle.

Advanced bladder cancer: 50-70 mg/m² per cycle once every 3-4 wk, depending on the extent of prior exposure to radiation and/or chemotherapy treatment. An initial dose of 50 mg/m² every 4 wk may be used in heavily pre-treated patients.

Usual dosage and schedule: 40 to 120 mg/m² I.V. on day 1 as infusion every 3 weeks. 15 to 20 mg/m² I.V. on days 1 to 5 as infusion every 3 to 4 weeks. The usual dose in adults and children when used as single agent therapy is 50-100 mg/m².

Severe nausea and vomiting. Serious toxic effects on the kidneys, bone marrows and ears. Hypomagnesaemia, hypocalcaemia, hyperuricaemia. Peripheral neuropathies, papilloedema, optic neuritis, seizures. Ototoxicity (children) manifested as tinnitus, loss of hearing, deafness or vestibular toxicity.

Cisplatin is contraindicated in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. Cisplatin should not be employed in myelosuppressed patients, or patients with hearing impairment. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to cisplatin or other platinum-containing compounds.

Patients with renal or hepatic disorder, myelosuppression. Monitor renal, neurological and auditory function. Perform blood counts regularly. Maintain adequate hydration before and 24 hr after admin to minimise nephrotoxicity.

Synergistic with 5-fluorouracil and etoposide. Efficacy increased and toxicity reduced when combined with radioprotecting agent WR 2721. At doses ≤100 mg, cisplatin is an ideal drug to combine with other cytotoxic drugs; unlike other antineoplastic drugs, it causes little myelosuppression.

Pregnancy Category D. There is positive evidence of human foetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk (e.g., if the drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).

Acute overdosage may result in kidney failure, liver failure, deafness, ocular toxicity, significant myelosuppression, intractable nausea and vomiting and/or neuritis. Death may also occur following overdosage. Treatment should include general supportive measures.

Cisplatin lyophilized powder for injection 10 mg and 50 mg should be reconstituted with 10 ml and 50 ml of water for inj. respectively.

Cisplatin solution after reconstitution should be added to 2 liters of 5% glucose or 0.9% saline and intravenously administered in 6-8 hours; after administration an adequate hydration and diuresis should be maintained during 24 hours.

Stability: The cisplatin remaining in vial following initial entry is stable for 28 days protected from light or for 7 days under fluorescent room light.

Storage: Product should be stored at controlled room temperature 25° C and protected from light.

Cisplatin is indicated as first line therapy for lung cancer, head & neck cancer and for the treatment of advanced and metastatic ovarian carcinoma, bladder carcinoma and testis carcinoma.

Cytotoxic Chemotherapy

Cisplatin modifies cell cycle by interfering with DNA structure and function. Effects are most prominent during the S phase but cells are killed at all stages. Cisplatin synergises with other anticancer drugs e.g. fluorouracil. It has a narrow therapeutic margin and is highly toxic.

Metastatic ovarian cancer: As monotherapy: 100 mg/m² per cycle, given as a single dose infused in 0.9% sodium chloride or glucose once every 4 wk. For combination therapy with cyclophosphamide: 75-100 mg/m² on day 1 of every 4-wk cycle.

Metastatic testicular tumours: 20 mg/m² BSA daily for 5 days per cycle.

Advanced bladder cancer: 50-70 mg/m² per cycle once every 3-4 wk, depending on the extent of prior exposure to radiation and/or chemotherapy treatment. An initial dose of 50 mg/m² every 4 wk may be used in heavily pre-treated patients.

Usual dosage and schedule: 40 to 120 mg/m² I.V. on day 1 as infusion every 3 weeks. 15 to 20 mg/m² I.V. on days 1 to 5 as infusion every 3 to 4 weeks. The usual dose in adults and children when used as single agent therapy is 50-100 mg/m².

Severe nausea and vomiting. Serious toxic effects on the kidneys, bone marrows and ears. Hypomagnesaemia, hypocalcaemia, hyperuricaemia. Peripheral neuropathies, papilloedema, optic neuritis, seizures. Ototoxicity (children) manifested as tinnitus, loss of hearing, deafness or vestibular toxicity.

Cisplatin is contraindicated in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. Cisplatin should not be employed in myelosuppressed patients, or patients with hearing impairment. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to cisplatin or other platinum-containing compounds.

Patients with renal or hepatic disorder, myelosuppression. Monitor renal, neurological and auditory function. Perform blood counts regularly. Maintain adequate hydration before and 24 hr after admin to minimise nephrotoxicity.

Synergistic with 5-fluorouracil and etoposide. Efficacy increased and toxicity reduced when combined with radioprotecting agent WR 2721. At doses ≤100 mg, cisplatin is an ideal drug to combine with other cytotoxic drugs; unlike other antineoplastic drugs, it causes little myelosuppression.

Pregnancy Category D. There is positive evidence of human foetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk (e.g., if the drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).

Acute overdosage may result in kidney failure, liver failure, deafness, ocular toxicity, significant myelosuppression, intractable nausea and vomiting and/or neuritis. Death may also occur following overdosage. Treatment should include general supportive measures.

Cisplatin lyophilized powder for injection 10 mg and 50 mg should be reconstituted with 10 ml and 50 ml of water for inj. respectively.

Cisplatin solution after reconstitution should be added to 2 liters of 5% glucose or 0.9% saline and intravenously administered in 6-8 hours; after administration an adequate hydration and diuresis should be maintained during 24 hours.

Stability: The cisplatin remaining in vial following initial entry is stable for 28 days protected from light or for 7 days under fluorescent room light.

Storage: Product should be stored at controlled room temperature 25° C and protected from light.

Cisplatin is indicated as first line therapy for lung cancer, head & neck cancer and for the treatment of advanced and metastatic ovarian carcinoma, bladder carcinoma and testis carcinoma.

Cytotoxic Chemotherapy

Cisplatin modifies cell cycle by interfering with DNA structure and function. Effects are most prominent during the S phase but cells are killed at all stages. Cisplatin synergises with other anticancer drugs e.g. fluorouracil. It has a narrow therapeutic margin and is highly toxic.

Metastatic ovarian cancer: As monotherapy: 100 mg/m² per cycle, given as a single dose infused in 0.9% sodium chloride or glucose once every 4 wk. For combination therapy with cyclophosphamide: 75-100 mg/m² on day 1 of every 4-wk cycle.

Metastatic testicular tumours: 20 mg/m² BSA daily for 5 days per cycle.

Advanced bladder cancer: 50-70 mg/m² per cycle once every 3-4 wk, depending on the extent of prior exposure to radiation and/or chemotherapy treatment. An initial dose of 50 mg/m² every 4 wk may be used in heavily pre-treated patients.

Usual dosage and schedule: 40 to 120 mg/m² I.V. on day 1 as infusion every 3 weeks. 15 to 20 mg/m² I.V. on days 1 to 5 as infusion every 3 to 4 weeks. The usual dose in adults and children when used as single agent therapy is 50-100 mg/m².

Severe nausea and vomiting. Serious toxic effects on the kidneys, bone marrows and ears. Hypomagnesaemia, hypocalcaemia, hyperuricaemia. Peripheral neuropathies, papilloedema, optic neuritis, seizures. Ototoxicity (children) manifested as tinnitus, loss of hearing, deafness or vestibular toxicity.

Cisplatin is contraindicated in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. Cisplatin should not be employed in myelosuppressed patients, or patients with hearing impairment. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to cisplatin or other platinum-containing compounds.

Patients with renal or hepatic disorder, myelosuppression. Monitor renal, neurological and auditory function. Perform blood counts regularly. Maintain adequate hydration before and 24 hr after admin to minimise nephrotoxicity.

Synergistic with 5-fluorouracil and etoposide. Efficacy increased and toxicity reduced when combined with radioprotecting agent WR 2721. At doses ≤100 mg, cisplatin is an ideal drug to combine with other cytotoxic drugs; unlike other antineoplastic drugs, it causes little myelosuppression.

Pregnancy Category D. There is positive evidence of human foetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk (e.g., if the drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).

Acute overdosage may result in kidney failure, liver failure, deafness, ocular toxicity, significant myelosuppression, intractable nausea and vomiting and/or neuritis. Death may also occur following overdosage. Treatment should include general supportive measures.

Cisplatin lyophilized powder for injection 10 mg and 50 mg should be reconstituted with 10 ml and 50 ml of water for inj. respectively.

Cisplatin solution after reconstitution should be added to 2 liters of 5% glucose or 0.9% saline and intravenously administered in 6-8 hours; after administration an adequate hydration and diuresis should be maintained during 24 hours.

Stability: The cisplatin remaining in vial following initial entry is stable for 28 days protected from light or for 7 days under fluorescent room light.

Storage: Product should be stored at controlled room temperature 25° C and protected from light.

Cisplatin is indicated as first line therapy for lung cancer, head & neck cancer and for the treatment of advanced and metastatic ovarian carcinoma, bladder carcinoma and testis carcinoma.

Cytotoxic Chemotherapy

Cisplatin modifies cell cycle by interfering with DNA structure and function. Effects are most prominent during the S phase but cells are killed at all stages. Cisplatin synergises with other anticancer drugs e.g. fluorouracil. It has a narrow therapeutic margin and is highly toxic.

Metastatic ovarian cancer: As monotherapy: 100 mg/m² per cycle, given as a single dose infused in 0.9% sodium chloride or glucose once every 4 wk. For combination therapy with cyclophosphamide: 75-100 mg/m² on day 1 of every 4-wk cycle.

Metastatic testicular tumours: 20 mg/m² BSA daily for 5 days per cycle.

Advanced bladder cancer: 50-70 mg/m² per cycle once every 3-4 wk, depending on the extent of prior exposure to radiation and/or chemotherapy treatment. An initial dose of 50 mg/m² every 4 wk may be used in heavily pre-treated patients.

Usual dosage and schedule: 40 to 120 mg/m² I.V. on day 1 as infusion every 3 weeks. 15 to 20 mg/m² I.V. on days 1 to 5 as infusion every 3 to 4 weeks. The usual dose in adults and children when used as single agent therapy is 50-100 mg/m².

Severe nausea and vomiting. Serious toxic effects on the kidneys, bone marrows and ears. Hypomagnesaemia, hypocalcaemia, hyperuricaemia. Peripheral neuropathies, papilloedema, optic neuritis, seizures. Ototoxicity (children) manifested as tinnitus, loss of hearing, deafness or vestibular toxicity.

Cisplatin is contraindicated in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. Cisplatin should not be employed in myelosuppressed patients, or patients with hearing impairment. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to cisplatin or other platinum-containing compounds.

Patients with renal or hepatic disorder, myelosuppression. Monitor renal, neurological and auditory function. Perform blood counts regularly. Maintain adequate hydration before and 24 hr after admin to minimise nephrotoxicity.

Synergistic with 5-fluorouracil and etoposide. Efficacy increased and toxicity reduced when combined with radioprotecting agent WR 2721. At doses ≤100 mg, cisplatin is an ideal drug to combine with other cytotoxic drugs; unlike other antineoplastic drugs, it causes little myelosuppression.

Pregnancy Category D. There is positive evidence of human foetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk (e.g., if the drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).

Acute overdosage may result in kidney failure, liver failure, deafness, ocular toxicity, significant myelosuppression, intractable nausea and vomiting and/or neuritis. Death may also occur following overdosage. Treatment should include general supportive measures.

Cisplatin lyophilized powder for injection 10 mg and 50 mg should be reconstituted with 10 ml and 50 ml of water for inj. respectively.

Cisplatin solution after reconstitution should be added to 2 liters of 5% glucose or 0.9% saline and intravenously administered in 6-8 hours; after administration an adequate hydration and diuresis should be maintained during 24 hours.

Stability: The cisplatin remaining in vial following initial entry is stable for 28 days protected from light or for 7 days under fluorescent room light.

Storage: Product should be stored at controlled room temperature 25° C and protected from light.

Escitalopram Oxalate is indicated in the-

• Treatment of major depressive episodes.
• Treatment of panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.
• Treatment of social anxiety disorder (social phobia).
• Treatment of generalised anxiety disorder.
• Treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

SSRIs & related anti-depressant drugs

Escitalopram is an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Escitalopram is the pure S-enantiomer of the racemic bicyclic phthalate derivative citalopram. Escitalopram is at least 100 fold more potent than the R-enantiomer with respect to inhibition of 5-HT reuptake. Escitalopram has no or very low affinity for serotonergic or other receptors including alpha- and beta-adrenergic Dopamine, Histamine, Muscarinic and benzodiazepine receptors.

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.

Escitalopram should generally be administered once daily, morning or evening with or without food.

SSRIs are less sedating and have fewer antimuscarinic and cardiotoxic effects than tricyclic antidepressants. Side-effects of the SSRIs include gastrointestinal effects (dose-related and fairly common include nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation), anorexia with weight loss (increased appetite and weight gain also reported) and hypersensitivity reactions including rash, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis, arthralgia, myalgia, and photosensitivity; other side-effects include dry mouth, nervousness, anxiety, headache, insomnia, tremor, dizziness, asthenia, hallucinations, drowsiness, convulsions, galactorrhoea, sexual dysfunction, urinary retention, sweating, hypomania or mania, movement disorders and dyskinesias, visual disturbances.

Escitalopram is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Escitalopram or Citalopram or any of the inactive ingredients of the drug product. Concomitant use of escitalopram in patients taking monoamine oxidase/pimozide is contraindicated.

SSRIs should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy (avoid if poorly controlled, discontinue if convulsions develop), concurrent electroconvulsive therapy (prolonged seizures reported with fluoxetine), history of mania, cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, angle-closure glaucoma, concomitant use of drugs that increase risk of bleeding, history of bleeding disorders (especially gastro-lntestinal bleeding), hepatic and renal impairment.

As SSRI or related antidepressants should not be started until 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI. Conversely, an MAOI should not. be started until at least a week after an SSRI or related antidepressant has been stopped (2 weeks in the case of paroxetine and sertraline, at least 5 weeks in the case of fluoxetine).

When treating a pregnant woman with Escitalopram during the third trimester, the physician should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of treatment. It is excreted in human breast milk. The decision whether to continue or discontinue either nursing or Escitalopram therapy should take into account the risk of citalopram exposure for the infant and the benefits Escitalopram treatment for the mother.

Elderly patients (>65 years of age): Initial dosage is 5 mg once daily. Depending on the individual patient response the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. The efficacy of escitalopram in social anxiety disorder has not been studied in elderly patients.

Children and adolescents (<18 years): Escitalopram Oxalate should not be used in the treatment of children and adolescents under the age of 18 years.

Reduced renal function: Dosage adjustment is not necessary in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. Caution is advised in patients with severely reduced renal function (CLCR less than 30 ml/min).

Reduced hepatic function: An initial dose of 5 mg daily for the first two weeks of treatment is recommended in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Caution and extra careful dose titration is advised in patients with severely reduced hepatic function.

Poor metabolizers of CYP2C19: For patients who are known to be poor metabolisers with respect to CYP2C19, an initial dose of 5 mg daily during the first two weeks of treatment is recommended. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Discontinuation symptoms seen when stopping treatment. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided.

When stopping treatment with escitalopram the dose should be gradually reduced over a period of at least one to two weeks in order to reduce the risk of discontinuation symptoms. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose, but at a more gradual rate.

Symptoms: Symptoms seen in a reported overdose of escitalopram include symptoms mainly related to the central nervous system (ranging from dizziness, tremor, and agitation to rare cases of serotonin syndrome, convulsion, and coma), the gastrointestinal system (nausea/vomiting), and the cardiovascular system (hypotension, tachycardia, QT interval, prolongation, and arrhythmia) and electrolyte/fluid balance conditions (hypokalaemia, hyponatremia).

Management: There is no specific antidote. Establish and maintain an airway, ensure adequate oxygenation and respiratory function. Gastric lavage and the use of activated charcoal should be considered. Gastric lavage should be carried out as soon as possible after oral ingestion. Cardiac and vital signs monitoring are recommended along with general symptomatic supportive measures. ECG monitoring is advised in case of overdose, in patients with congestive heart failure/bradyarrhythmias, in patients using concomitant medications that prolong the QT-interval, or in patients with altered metabolism, e.g. liver impairment.

Store below 30°C temperature and protect from light & moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Escitalopram Oxalate is indicated in the-

• Treatment of major depressive episodes.
• Treatment of panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.
• Treatment of social anxiety disorder (social phobia).
• Treatment of generalised anxiety disorder.
• Treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

SSRIs & related anti-depressant drugs

Escitalopram is an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Escitalopram is the pure S-enantiomer of the racemic bicyclic phthalate derivative citalopram. Escitalopram is at least 100 fold more potent than the R-enantiomer with respect to inhibition of 5-HT reuptake. Escitalopram has no or very low affinity for serotonergic or other receptors including alpha- and beta-adrenergic Dopamine, Histamine, Muscarinic and benzodiazepine receptors.

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.

Escitalopram should generally be administered once daily, morning or evening with or without food.

SSRIs are less sedating and have fewer antimuscarinic and cardiotoxic effects than tricyclic antidepressants. Side-effects of the SSRIs include gastrointestinal effects (dose-related and fairly common include nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation), anorexia with weight loss (increased appetite and weight gain also reported) and hypersensitivity reactions including rash, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis, arthralgia, myalgia, and photosensitivity; other side-effects include dry mouth, nervousness, anxiety, headache, insomnia, tremor, dizziness, asthenia, hallucinations, drowsiness, convulsions, galactorrhoea, sexual dysfunction, urinary retention, sweating, hypomania or mania, movement disorders and dyskinesias, visual disturbances.

Escitalopram is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Escitalopram or Citalopram or any of the inactive ingredients of the drug product. Concomitant use of escitalopram in patients taking monoamine oxidase/pimozide is contraindicated.

SSRIs should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy (avoid if poorly controlled, discontinue if convulsions develop), concurrent electroconvulsive therapy (prolonged seizures reported with fluoxetine), history of mania, cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, angle-closure glaucoma, concomitant use of drugs that increase risk of bleeding, history of bleeding disorders (especially gastro-lntestinal bleeding), hepatic and renal impairment.

As SSRI or related antidepressants should not be started until 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI. Conversely, an MAOI should not. be started until at least a week after an SSRI or related antidepressant has been stopped (2 weeks in the case of paroxetine and sertraline, at least 5 weeks in the case of fluoxetine).

When treating a pregnant woman with Escitalopram during the third trimester, the physician should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of treatment. It is excreted in human breast milk. The decision whether to continue or discontinue either nursing or Escitalopram therapy should take into account the risk of citalopram exposure for the infant and the benefits Escitalopram treatment for the mother.

Elderly patients (>65 years of age): Initial dosage is 5 mg once daily. Depending on the individual patient response the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. The efficacy of escitalopram in social anxiety disorder has not been studied in elderly patients.

Children and adolescents (<18 years): Escitalopram Oxalate should not be used in the treatment of children and adolescents under the age of 18 years.

Reduced renal function: Dosage adjustment is not necessary in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. Caution is advised in patients with severely reduced renal function (CLCR less than 30 ml/min).

Reduced hepatic function: An initial dose of 5 mg daily for the first two weeks of treatment is recommended in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Caution and extra careful dose titration is advised in patients with severely reduced hepatic function.

Poor metabolizers of CYP2C19: For patients who are known to be poor metabolisers with respect to CYP2C19, an initial dose of 5 mg daily during the first two weeks of treatment is recommended. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Discontinuation symptoms seen when stopping treatment. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided.

When stopping treatment with escitalopram the dose should be gradually reduced over a period of at least one to two weeks in order to reduce the risk of discontinuation symptoms. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose, but at a more gradual rate.

Symptoms: Symptoms seen in a reported overdose of escitalopram include symptoms mainly related to the central nervous system (ranging from dizziness, tremor, and agitation to rare cases of serotonin syndrome, convulsion, and coma), the gastrointestinal system (nausea/vomiting), and the cardiovascular system (hypotension, tachycardia, QT interval, prolongation, and arrhythmia) and electrolyte/fluid balance conditions (hypokalaemia, hyponatremia).

Management: There is no specific antidote. Establish and maintain an airway, ensure adequate oxygenation and respiratory function. Gastric lavage and the use of activated charcoal should be considered. Gastric lavage should be carried out as soon as possible after oral ingestion. Cardiac and vital signs monitoring are recommended along with general symptomatic supportive measures. ECG monitoring is advised in case of overdose, in patients with congestive heart failure/bradyarrhythmias, in patients using concomitant medications that prolong the QT-interval, or in patients with altered metabolism, e.g. liver impairment.

Store below 30°C temperature and protect from light & moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Escitalopram Oxalate is indicated in the-

• Treatment of major depressive episodes.
• Treatment of panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.
• Treatment of social anxiety disorder (social phobia).
• Treatment of generalised anxiety disorder.
• Treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

SSRIs & related anti-depressant drugs

Escitalopram is an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Escitalopram is the pure S-enantiomer of the racemic bicyclic phthalate derivative citalopram. Escitalopram is at least 100 fold more potent than the R-enantiomer with respect to inhibition of 5-HT reuptake. Escitalopram has no or very low affinity for serotonergic or other receptors including alpha- and beta-adrenergic Dopamine, Histamine, Muscarinic and benzodiazepine receptors.

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.

Escitalopram should generally be administered once daily, morning or evening with or without food.

SSRIs are less sedating and have fewer antimuscarinic and cardiotoxic effects than tricyclic antidepressants. Side-effects of the SSRIs include gastrointestinal effects (dose-related and fairly common include nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation), anorexia with weight loss (increased appetite and weight gain also reported) and hypersensitivity reactions including rash, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis, arthralgia, myalgia, and photosensitivity; other side-effects include dry mouth, nervousness, anxiety, headache, insomnia, tremor, dizziness, asthenia, hallucinations, drowsiness, convulsions, galactorrhoea, sexual dysfunction, urinary retention, sweating, hypomania or mania, movement disorders and dyskinesias, visual disturbances.

Escitalopram is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Escitalopram or Citalopram or any of the inactive ingredients of the drug product. Concomitant use of escitalopram in patients taking monoamine oxidase/pimozide is contraindicated.

SSRIs should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy (avoid if poorly controlled, discontinue if convulsions develop), concurrent electroconvulsive therapy (prolonged seizures reported with fluoxetine), history of mania, cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, angle-closure glaucoma, concomitant use of drugs that increase risk of bleeding, history of bleeding disorders (especially gastro-lntestinal bleeding), hepatic and renal impairment.

As SSRI or related antidepressants should not be started until 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI. Conversely, an MAOI should not. be started until at least a week after an SSRI or related antidepressant has been stopped (2 weeks in the case of paroxetine and sertraline, at least 5 weeks in the case of fluoxetine).

When treating a pregnant woman with Escitalopram during the third trimester, the physician should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of treatment. It is excreted in human breast milk. The decision whether to continue or discontinue either nursing or Escitalopram therapy should take into account the risk of citalopram exposure for the infant and the benefits Escitalopram treatment for the mother.

Elderly patients (>65 years of age): Initial dosage is 5 mg once daily. Depending on the individual patient response the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. The efficacy of escitalopram in social anxiety disorder has not been studied in elderly patients.

Children and adolescents (<18 years): Escitalopram Oxalate should not be used in the treatment of children and adolescents under the age of 18 years.

Reduced renal function: Dosage adjustment is not necessary in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. Caution is advised in patients with severely reduced renal function (CLCR less than 30 ml/min).

Reduced hepatic function: An initial dose of 5 mg daily for the first two weeks of treatment is recommended in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Caution and extra careful dose titration is advised in patients with severely reduced hepatic function.

Poor metabolizers of CYP2C19: For patients who are known to be poor metabolisers with respect to CYP2C19, an initial dose of 5 mg daily during the first two weeks of treatment is recommended. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Discontinuation symptoms seen when stopping treatment. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided.

When stopping treatment with escitalopram the dose should be gradually reduced over a period of at least one to two weeks in order to reduce the risk of discontinuation symptoms. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose, but at a more gradual rate.

Symptoms: Symptoms seen in a reported overdose of escitalopram include symptoms mainly related to the central nervous system (ranging from dizziness, tremor, and agitation to rare cases of serotonin syndrome, convulsion, and coma), the gastrointestinal system (nausea/vomiting), and the cardiovascular system (hypotension, tachycardia, QT interval, prolongation, and arrhythmia) and electrolyte/fluid balance conditions (hypokalaemia, hyponatremia).

Management: There is no specific antidote. Establish and maintain an airway, ensure adequate oxygenation and respiratory function. Gastric lavage and the use of activated charcoal should be considered. Gastric lavage should be carried out as soon as possible after oral ingestion. Cardiac and vital signs monitoring are recommended along with general symptomatic supportive measures. ECG monitoring is advised in case of overdose, in patients with congestive heart failure/bradyarrhythmias, in patients using concomitant medications that prolong the QT-interval, or in patients with altered metabolism, e.g. liver impairment.

Store below 30°C temperature and protect from light & moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Escitalopram Oxalate is indicated in the-

• Treatment of major depressive episodes.
• Treatment of panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.
• Treatment of social anxiety disorder (social phobia).
• Treatment of generalised anxiety disorder.
• Treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

SSRIs & related anti-depressant drugs

Escitalopram is an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Escitalopram is the pure S-enantiomer of the racemic bicyclic phthalate derivative citalopram. Escitalopram is at least 100 fold more potent than the R-enantiomer with respect to inhibition of 5-HT reuptake. Escitalopram has no or very low affinity for serotonergic or other receptors including alpha- and beta-adrenergic Dopamine, Histamine, Muscarinic and benzodiazepine receptors.

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.

Escitalopram should generally be administered once daily, morning or evening with or without food.

SSRIs are less sedating and have fewer antimuscarinic and cardiotoxic effects than tricyclic antidepressants. Side-effects of the SSRIs include gastrointestinal effects (dose-related and fairly common include nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation), anorexia with weight loss (increased appetite and weight gain also reported) and hypersensitivity reactions including rash, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis, arthralgia, myalgia, and photosensitivity; other side-effects include dry mouth, nervousness, anxiety, headache, insomnia, tremor, dizziness, asthenia, hallucinations, drowsiness, convulsions, galactorrhoea, sexual dysfunction, urinary retention, sweating, hypomania or mania, movement disorders and dyskinesias, visual disturbances.

Escitalopram is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Escitalopram or Citalopram or any of the inactive ingredients of the drug product. Concomitant use of escitalopram in patients taking monoamine oxidase/pimozide is contraindicated.

SSRIs should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy (avoid if poorly controlled, discontinue if convulsions develop), concurrent electroconvulsive therapy (prolonged seizures reported with fluoxetine), history of mania, cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, angle-closure glaucoma, concomitant use of drugs that increase risk of bleeding, history of bleeding disorders (especially gastro-lntestinal bleeding), hepatic and renal impairment.

As SSRI or related antidepressants should not be started until 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI. Conversely, an MAOI should not. be started until at least a week after an SSRI or related antidepressant has been stopped (2 weeks in the case of paroxetine and sertraline, at least 5 weeks in the case of fluoxetine).

When treating a pregnant woman with Escitalopram during the third trimester, the physician should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of treatment. It is excreted in human breast milk. The decision whether to continue or discontinue either nursing or Escitalopram therapy should take into account the risk of citalopram exposure for the infant and the benefits Escitalopram treatment for the mother.

Elderly patients (>65 years of age): Initial dosage is 5 mg once daily. Depending on the individual patient response the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. The efficacy of escitalopram in social anxiety disorder has not been studied in elderly patients.

Children and adolescents (<18 years): Escitalopram Oxalate should not be used in the treatment of children and adolescents under the age of 18 years.

Reduced renal function: Dosage adjustment is not necessary in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. Caution is advised in patients with severely reduced renal function (CLCR less than 30 ml/min).

Reduced hepatic function: An initial dose of 5 mg daily for the first two weeks of treatment is recommended in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Caution and extra careful dose titration is advised in patients with severely reduced hepatic function.

Poor metabolizers of CYP2C19: For patients who are known to be poor metabolisers with respect to CYP2C19, an initial dose of 5 mg daily during the first two weeks of treatment is recommended. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Discontinuation symptoms seen when stopping treatment. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided.

When stopping treatment with escitalopram the dose should be gradually reduced over a period of at least one to two weeks in order to reduce the risk of discontinuation symptoms. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose, but at a more gradual rate.

Symptoms: Symptoms seen in a reported overdose of escitalopram include symptoms mainly related to the central nervous system (ranging from dizziness, tremor, and agitation to rare cases of serotonin syndrome, convulsion, and coma), the gastrointestinal system (nausea/vomiting), and the cardiovascular system (hypotension, tachycardia, QT interval, prolongation, and arrhythmia) and electrolyte/fluid balance conditions (hypokalaemia, hyponatremia).

Management: There is no specific antidote. Establish and maintain an airway, ensure adequate oxygenation and respiratory function. Gastric lavage and the use of activated charcoal should be considered. Gastric lavage should be carried out as soon as possible after oral ingestion. Cardiac and vital signs monitoring are recommended along with general symptomatic supportive measures. ECG monitoring is advised in case of overdose, in patients with congestive heart failure/bradyarrhythmias, in patients using concomitant medications that prolong the QT-interval, or in patients with altered metabolism, e.g. liver impairment.

Store below 30°C temperature and protect from light & moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Escitalopram Oxalate is indicated in the-

• Treatment of major depressive episodes.
• Treatment of panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.
• Treatment of social anxiety disorder (social phobia).
• Treatment of generalised anxiety disorder.
• Treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

SSRIs & related anti-depressant drugs

Escitalopram is an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Escitalopram is the pure S-enantiomer of the racemic bicyclic phthalate derivative citalopram. Escitalopram is at least 100 fold more potent than the R-enantiomer with respect to inhibition of 5-HT reuptake. Escitalopram has no or very low affinity for serotonergic or other receptors including alpha- and beta-adrenergic Dopamine, Histamine, Muscarinic and benzodiazepine receptors.

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.

Escitalopram should generally be administered once daily, morning or evening with or without food.

SSRIs are less sedating and have fewer antimuscarinic and cardiotoxic effects than tricyclic antidepressants. Side-effects of the SSRIs include gastrointestinal effects (dose-related and fairly common include nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation), anorexia with weight loss (increased appetite and weight gain also reported) and hypersensitivity reactions including rash, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis, arthralgia, myalgia, and photosensitivity; other side-effects include dry mouth, nervousness, anxiety, headache, insomnia, tremor, dizziness, asthenia, hallucinations, drowsiness, convulsions, galactorrhoea, sexual dysfunction, urinary retention, sweating, hypomania or mania, movement disorders and dyskinesias, visual disturbances.

Escitalopram is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Escitalopram or Citalopram or any of the inactive ingredients of the drug product. Concomitant use of escitalopram in patients taking monoamine oxidase/pimozide is contraindicated.

SSRIs should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy (avoid if poorly controlled, discontinue if convulsions develop), concurrent electroconvulsive therapy (prolonged seizures reported with fluoxetine), history of mania, cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, angle-closure glaucoma, concomitant use of drugs that increase risk of bleeding, history of bleeding disorders (especially gastro-lntestinal bleeding), hepatic and renal impairment.

As SSRI or related antidepressants should not be started until 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI. Conversely, an MAOI should not. be started until at least a week after an SSRI or related antidepressant has been stopped (2 weeks in the case of paroxetine and sertraline, at least 5 weeks in the case of fluoxetine).

When treating a pregnant woman with Escitalopram during the third trimester, the physician should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of treatment. It is excreted in human breast milk. The decision whether to continue or discontinue either nursing or Escitalopram therapy should take into account the risk of citalopram exposure for the infant and the benefits Escitalopram treatment for the mother.

Elderly patients (>65 years of age): Initial dosage is 5 mg once daily. Depending on the individual patient response the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. The efficacy of escitalopram in social anxiety disorder has not been studied in elderly patients.

Children and adolescents (<18 years): Escitalopram Oxalate should not be used in the treatment of children and adolescents under the age of 18 years.

Reduced renal function: Dosage adjustment is not necessary in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. Caution is advised in patients with severely reduced renal function (CLCR less than 30 ml/min).

Reduced hepatic function: An initial dose of 5 mg daily for the first two weeks of treatment is recommended in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Caution and extra careful dose titration is advised in patients with severely reduced hepatic function.

Poor metabolizers of CYP2C19: For patients who are known to be poor metabolisers with respect to CYP2C19, an initial dose of 5 mg daily during the first two weeks of treatment is recommended. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Discontinuation symptoms seen when stopping treatment. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided.

When stopping treatment with escitalopram the dose should be gradually reduced over a period of at least one to two weeks in order to reduce the risk of discontinuation symptoms. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose, but at a more gradual rate.

Symptoms: Symptoms seen in a reported overdose of escitalopram include symptoms mainly related to the central nervous system (ranging from dizziness, tremor, and agitation to rare cases of serotonin syndrome, convulsion, and coma), the gastrointestinal system (nausea/vomiting), and the cardiovascular system (hypotension, tachycardia, QT interval, prolongation, and arrhythmia) and electrolyte/fluid balance conditions (hypokalaemia, hyponatremia).

Management: There is no specific antidote. Establish and maintain an airway, ensure adequate oxygenation and respiratory function. Gastric lavage and the use of activated charcoal should be considered. Gastric lavage should be carried out as soon as possible after oral ingestion. Cardiac and vital signs monitoring are recommended along with general symptomatic supportive measures. ECG monitoring is advised in case of overdose, in patients with congestive heart failure/bradyarrhythmias, in patients using concomitant medications that prolong the QT-interval, or in patients with altered metabolism, e.g. liver impairment.

Store below 30°C temperature and protect from light & moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Escitalopram Oxalate is indicated in the-

• Treatment of major depressive episodes.
• Treatment of panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.
• Treatment of social anxiety disorder (social phobia).
• Treatment of generalised anxiety disorder.
• Treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

SSRIs & related anti-depressant drugs

Escitalopram is an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Escitalopram is the pure S-enantiomer of the racemic bicyclic phthalate derivative citalopram. Escitalopram is at least 100 fold more potent than the R-enantiomer with respect to inhibition of 5-HT reuptake. Escitalopram has no or very low affinity for serotonergic or other receptors including alpha- and beta-adrenergic Dopamine, Histamine, Muscarinic and benzodiazepine receptors.

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.

Escitalopram should generally be administered once daily, morning or evening with or without food.

SSRIs are less sedating and have fewer antimuscarinic and cardiotoxic effects than tricyclic antidepressants. Side-effects of the SSRIs include gastrointestinal effects (dose-related and fairly common include nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation), anorexia with weight loss (increased appetite and weight gain also reported) and hypersensitivity reactions including rash, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis, arthralgia, myalgia, and photosensitivity; other side-effects include dry mouth, nervousness, anxiety, headache, insomnia, tremor, dizziness, asthenia, hallucinations, drowsiness, convulsions, galactorrhoea, sexual dysfunction, urinary retention, sweating, hypomania or mania, movement disorders and dyskinesias, visual disturbances.

Escitalopram is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Escitalopram or Citalopram or any of the inactive ingredients of the drug product. Concomitant use of escitalopram in patients taking monoamine oxidase/pimozide is contraindicated.

SSRIs should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy (avoid if poorly controlled, discontinue if convulsions develop), concurrent electroconvulsive therapy (prolonged seizures reported with fluoxetine), history of mania, cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, angle-closure glaucoma, concomitant use of drugs that increase risk of bleeding, history of bleeding disorders (especially gastro-lntestinal bleeding), hepatic and renal impairment.

As SSRI or related antidepressants should not be started until 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI. Conversely, an MAOI should not. be started until at least a week after an SSRI or related antidepressant has been stopped (2 weeks in the case of paroxetine and sertraline, at least 5 weeks in the case of fluoxetine).

When treating a pregnant woman with Escitalopram during the third trimester, the physician should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of treatment. It is excreted in human breast milk. The decision whether to continue or discontinue either nursing or Escitalopram therapy should take into account the risk of citalopram exposure for the infant and the benefits Escitalopram treatment for the mother.

Elderly patients (>65 years of age): Initial dosage is 5 mg once daily. Depending on the individual patient response the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. The efficacy of escitalopram in social anxiety disorder has not been studied in elderly patients.

Children and adolescents (<18 years): Escitalopram Oxalate should not be used in the treatment of children and adolescents under the age of 18 years.

Reduced renal function: Dosage adjustment is not necessary in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. Caution is advised in patients with severely reduced renal function (CLCR less than 30 ml/min).

Reduced hepatic function: An initial dose of 5 mg daily for the first two weeks of treatment is recommended in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Caution and extra careful dose titration is advised in patients with severely reduced hepatic function.

Poor metabolizers of CYP2C19: For patients who are known to be poor metabolisers with respect to CYP2C19, an initial dose of 5 mg daily during the first two weeks of treatment is recommended. Depending on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg daily. Discontinuation symptoms seen when stopping treatment. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided.

When stopping treatment with escitalopram the dose should be gradually reduced over a period of at least one to two weeks in order to reduce the risk of discontinuation symptoms. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose, but at a more gradual rate.

Symptoms: Symptoms seen in a reported overdose of escitalopram include symptoms mainly related to the central nervous system (ranging from dizziness, tremor, and agitation to rare cases of serotonin syndrome, convulsion, and coma), the gastrointestinal system (nausea/vomiting), and the cardiovascular system (hypotension, tachycardia, QT interval, prolongation, and arrhythmia) and electrolyte/fluid balance conditions (hypokalaemia, hyponatremia).

Management: There is no specific antidote. Establish and maintain an airway, ensure adequate oxygenation and respiratory function. Gastric lavage and the use of activated charcoal should be considered. Gastric lavage should be carried out as soon as possible after oral ingestion. Cardiac and vital signs monitoring are recommended along with general symptomatic supportive measures. ECG monitoring is advised in case of overdose, in patients with congestive heart failure/bradyarrhythmias, in patients using concomitant medications that prolong the QT-interval, or in patients with altered metabolism, e.g. liver impairment.

Store below 30°C temperature and protect from light & moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

SSRIs & related anti-depressant drugs

Citalopram is bicyclic phthalane derivative and a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, with little or no effect on noradrenaline, dopamine and GABA re-uptake. The inhibitory activity explains the antidepressant property of citalopram. It has no or very low affinity for 5-HT_1AA, 5-HT_2A, D₁ and D₂ receptors, α₁, α₂, β-adrenergic, histamine H₁, muscarinic, cholinergic, benzodiazepine and opioid receptors.

Depression, Depressive phase of bipolar disorder:

• Adult: Initially, 20 mg/day, increased to max 40 mg/day after at least 1 wk.
• Child: Contraindicated.
• Elderly: 10 mg/day. Max: 20 mg/day.

Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia:

• Adult: Initially, 10 mg/day, increased to 20 mg/day after 1 wk.
• Child: Contraindicated.
• Elderly: 10 mg/day. Max: 20 mg/day.

SSRIs are less sedating and have fewer antimuscarinic and cardiotoxic effects than tricyclic antidepressants. However, side-effects may be seen, includes gastro-intestinal effects (nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation), anorexia with weight loss, palpitations, tachycardia, postural hypotension, cough, confusion, impaired concentration, amnesia, urinary retention, sweating, movement disorders, urticaria, anaphylaxis, arthralgia, myalgia and photosensitivity.

Citalopram should not be used if the patient enters a manic phase. Concomitant use in patients taking MAO inhibitor is contraindicated. Citalopram is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to this drug or any of its ingredients.

Caution should be taken in patients with epilepsy, concurrent electroconvulsive therapy, history of mania, cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, angle-closure glaucoma, history of bleeding disorders, hepatic and renal impairment. Abrupt withdrawal of Citalopram should be avoided.

Ketoconazole, Itraconazole or Macrolide antibiotics and Citalopram co-administration decreases the metabolism of Citalopram. Omeprazole and Citalopram co-administration might decrease the clearance of Citalopram.

Pregnancy: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women; therefore, Citalopram should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation: Citalopram is excreted in human breast milk. So, the decision whether to continue or discontinue either nursing or Citalopram therapy should take into account the risks of Citalopram exposure for the infants and the benefits of Citalopram treatment for the mother.

Symptoms: Dizziness, sweating, nausea, vomiting, tremor, somnolence and sinus tachycardia. Rarely, amnesia, confusion, coma, seizures, hyperventilation, cyanosis, rhabdomyolysis and ECG changes (e.g. QT prolongation, sinus bradycardia, ventricular arrhythmias, nodal rhythm, torsade de pointes and left bundle branch block).

Management: Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Maintain and ensure adequate ventilation and oxygenation. Gastric evacuation by lavage and use of activated charcoal should be considered. Frequently monitor cardiac function and vital signs.

Store at 25° C.

SSRIs & related anti-depressant drugs

Citalopram is bicyclic phthalane derivative and a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, with little or no effect on noradrenaline, dopamine and GABA re-uptake. The inhibitory activity explains the antidepressant property of citalopram. It has no or very low affinity for 5-HT_1AA, 5-HT_2A, D₁ and D₂ receptors, α₁, α₂, β-adrenergic, histamine H₁, muscarinic, cholinergic, benzodiazepine and opioid receptors.

Depression, Depressive phase of bipolar disorder:

• Adult: Initially, 20 mg/day, increased to max 40 mg/day after at least 1 wk.
• Child: Contraindicated.
• Elderly: 10 mg/day. Max: 20 mg/day.

Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia:

• Adult: Initially, 10 mg/day, increased to 20 mg/day after 1 wk.
• Child: Contraindicated.
• Elderly: 10 mg/day. Max: 20 mg/day.

SSRIs are less sedating and have fewer antimuscarinic and cardiotoxic effects than tricyclic antidepressants. However, side-effects may be seen, includes gastro-intestinal effects (nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation), anorexia with weight loss, palpitations, tachycardia, postural hypotension, cough, confusion, impaired concentration, amnesia, urinary retention, sweating, movement disorders, urticaria, anaphylaxis, arthralgia, myalgia and photosensitivity.

Citalopram should not be used if the patient enters a manic phase. Concomitant use in patients taking MAO inhibitor is contraindicated. Citalopram is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to this drug or any of its ingredients.

Caution should be taken in patients with epilepsy, concurrent electroconvulsive therapy, history of mania, cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, angle-closure glaucoma, history of bleeding disorders, hepatic and renal impairment. Abrupt withdrawal of Citalopram should be avoided.

Ketoconazole, Itraconazole or Macrolide antibiotics and Citalopram co-administration decreases the metabolism of Citalopram. Omeprazole and Citalopram co-administration might decrease the clearance of Citalopram.

Pregnancy: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women; therefore, Citalopram should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation: Citalopram is excreted in human breast milk. So, the decision whether to continue or discontinue either nursing or Citalopram therapy should take into account the risks of Citalopram exposure for the infants and the benefits of Citalopram treatment for the mother.

Symptoms: Dizziness, sweating, nausea, vomiting, tremor, somnolence and sinus tachycardia. Rarely, amnesia, confusion, coma, seizures, hyperventilation, cyanosis, rhabdomyolysis and ECG changes (e.g. QT prolongation, sinus bradycardia, ventricular arrhythmias, nodal rhythm, torsade de pointes and left bundle branch block).

Management: Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Maintain and ensure adequate ventilation and oxygenation. Gastric evacuation by lavage and use of activated charcoal should be considered. Frequently monitor cardiac function and vital signs.

Store at 25° C.

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs

Adults and adolescents from 16 years of age: The recommended starting dose is 250 mg twice daily which should be increased to an initial therapeutic dose of 500 mg twice daily after two weeks. The dose can be further increased by 250 mg twice daily every two weeks depending upon the clinical response. The maximum dose is 1500 mg twice daily.

Adults (≥18 years) and adolescents (12 to 17 years) weighing 50 kg or more: The initial therapeutic dose is 500 mg twice daily. This dose can be started on the first day of treatment. Depending upon the clinical response and tolerability, the daily dose can be increased up to 1,500 mg twice daily. Dose changes can be made in 500 mg twice daily increases or decrease every two to four weeks.

Pediatric population: The tablet formulation is not adapted for use in infants and children under the age of 6 years. Oral solution is the preferred formulation for use in this population. In addition, the available dose strengths of the tablets are not appropriate for initial treatment in children weighing less than 25 kg, for patients unable to swallow tablets or for the administration of doses below 250 mg. In all of the above cases, oral solution should be used.

• Monotherapy: The safety and efficacy of levetiracetam in children and adolescents below 16 years as monotherapy treatment have not been established.
• Add-on therapy: Oral solution is the preferred formulation for use in infants and children under the age of 6 years. For children 6 years and above, oral solution should be used for doses under 250 mg, for doses not in multiples of 250 mg when dosing recommendation is not achievable by taking multiple tablets and for patients unable to swallow tablets. The lowest effective dose should be used. The starting dose for a child or adolescent of 25 kg should be 250 mg twice daily with a maximum dose of 750 mg twice daily. Dosing for children 50 kg or greater is the same as in adults.
• Add-on therapy: For infants aged from 1 month to less than 6 months: The oral solution is the formulation to use in infants.

Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5% more than placebo) include:

• Adult patients: somnolence, asthenia, infection and dizziness
• Pediatric patients: fatigue, aggression, nasal congestion, decreased appetite, and irritability

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or other pyrrolidone derivatives or to any of the excipients.

Renal impairment: The administration of levetiracetam to patients with renal impairment may require dose adjustment. In patients with severely impaired hepatic function, assessment of renal function is recommended before dose selection.

Acute kidney injury: The use of levetiracetam has been very rarely associated with acute kidney injury with a time to onset ranging from a few days to several months.

Blood cell counts: Rare cases of decreased blood cell counts (neutropenia, agranulocytosis, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia and pancytopenia) have been described in association with levetiracetam administration, generally at the beginning of the treatment. Complete blood cell counts are advised in patients experiencing important weakness, pyrexia, recurrent infections or coagulation disorders.

Suicide: Suicide, suicide attempt, suicidal ideation and behaviour have been reported in patients treated with anti-epileptic agents (including levetiracetam). A meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials of anti-epileptic medicinal products has shown a small increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour. The mechanism of this risk is not known. Therefore patients should be monitored for signs of depression and/or suicidal ideation and behaviours and appropriate treatment should be considered. Patients (and caregivers of patients) should be advised to seek medical advice should signs of depression and/or suicidal ideation or behaviour emerge.

Paediatric population: The tablet formulation is not adapted for use in infants and children under the age of 6 years. Available data in children did not suggest an impact on growth and puberty. However, long term effects on learning, intelligence, growth, endocrine function, puberty and childbearing potential in children remain unknown.

Antiepileptic medicinal products: Pre-marketing data from clinical studies conducted in adults indicate that levetiracetam did not influence the serum concentrations of existing antiepileptic medicinal products (phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproic acid, phenobarbital, lamotrigine, gabapentin and primidone) and that these antiepileptic medicinal products did not influence the pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam.

Probenecid: Probenecid (500 mg four times daily), a renal tubular secretion blocking agent, has been shown to inhibit the renal clearance of the primary metabolite but not of levetiracetam. Nevertheless, the concentration of this metabolite remains low.

Methotrexate: Concomitant administration of levetiracetam and methotrexate has been reported to decrease methotrexate clearance, resulting in increased/prolonged blood methotrexate concentration to potentially toxic levels. Blood methotrexate and levetiracetam levels should be carefully monitored in patients treated concomitantly with the two drugs.

Laxatives: There have been isolated reports of decreased levetiracetam efficacy when the osmotic laxative macrogol has been concomitantly administered with oral levetiracetam. Therefore, macrogol should not be taken orally for one hour before and for one hour after taking levetiracetam.

Food and alcohol: The extent of absorption of levetiracetam was not altered by food, but the rate of absorption was slightly reduced. No data on the interaction of levetiracetam with alcohol are available.

Levetiracetam is not recommended during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential not using contraception unless clinically necessary. Levetiracetam is excreted in human breast milk. Therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended. However, if levetiracetam treatment is needed during breastfeeding, the benefit/risk of the treatment should be weighed considering the importance of breastfeeding. No impact on fertility was detected in animal studies. No clinical data are available, the potential risk for humans is unknown.

Elderly (65 years and older): Adjustment of the dose is recommended in elderly patients with compromised renal function.

Renal impairment: The daily dose must be individualized according to renal function.

Hepatic impairment: No dose adjustment is needed in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. In patients with severe hepatic impairment, the creatinine clearance may underestimate renal insufficiency. Therefore a 50 % reduction of the daily maintenance dose is recommended when the creatinine clearance is < 60 ml/min.

Somnolence, agitation, aggression, depressed level of consciousness, respiratory depression and coma were observed with levetiracetam overdoses. After an acute overdose, the stomach may be emptied by gastric lavage or by induction of emesis. There is no specifc antidote for levetiracetam. Treatment of an overdose will be symptomatic and may include haemodialysis. The dialyser extraction efficiency is 60 % for levetiracetam and 74% for the primary metabolite.

Store at a cool temperature (not exceeding 25°C) and dry place, protected from light.

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs

Adults and adolescents from 16 years of age: The recommended starting dose is 250 mg twice daily which should be increased to an initial therapeutic dose of 500 mg twice daily after two weeks. The dose can be further increased by 250 mg twice daily every two weeks depending upon the clinical response. The maximum dose is 1500 mg twice daily.

Adults (≥18 years) and adolescents (12 to 17 years) weighing 50 kg or more: The initial therapeutic dose is 500 mg twice daily. This dose can be started on the first day of treatment. Depending upon the clinical response and tolerability, the daily dose can be increased up to 1,500 mg twice daily. Dose changes can be made in 500 mg twice daily increases or decrease every two to four weeks.

Pediatric population: The tablet formulation is not adapted for use in infants and children under the age of 6 years. Oral solution is the preferred formulation for use in this population. In addition, the available dose strengths of the tablets are not appropriate for initial treatment in children weighing less than 25 kg, for patients unable to swallow tablets or for the administration of doses below 250 mg. In all of the above cases, oral solution should be used.

• Monotherapy: The safety and efficacy of levetiracetam in children and adolescents below 16 years as monotherapy treatment have not been established.
• Add-on therapy: Oral solution is the preferred formulation for use in infants and children under the age of 6 years. For children 6 years and above, oral solution should be used for doses under 250 mg, for doses not in multiples of 250 mg when dosing recommendation is not achievable by taking multiple tablets and for patients unable to swallow tablets. The lowest effective dose should be used. The starting dose for a child or adolescent of 25 kg should be 250 mg twice daily with a maximum dose of 750 mg twice daily. Dosing for children 50 kg or greater is the same as in adults.
• Add-on therapy: For infants aged from 1 month to less than 6 months: The oral solution is the formulation to use in infants.

Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5% more than placebo) include:

• Adult patients: somnolence, asthenia, infection and dizziness
• Pediatric patients: fatigue, aggression, nasal congestion, decreased appetite, and irritability

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or other pyrrolidone derivatives or to any of the excipients.

Renal impairment: The administration of levetiracetam to patients with renal impairment may require dose adjustment. In patients with severely impaired hepatic function, assessment of renal function is recommended before dose selection.

Acute kidney injury: The use of levetiracetam has been very rarely associated with acute kidney injury with a time to onset ranging from a few days to several months.

Blood cell counts: Rare cases of decreased blood cell counts (neutropenia, agranulocytosis, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia and pancytopenia) have been described in association with levetiracetam administration, generally at the beginning of the treatment. Complete blood cell counts are advised in patients experiencing important weakness, pyrexia, recurrent infections or coagulation disorders.

Suicide: Suicide, suicide attempt, suicidal ideation and behaviour have been reported in patients treated with anti-epileptic agents (including levetiracetam). A meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials of anti-epileptic medicinal products has shown a small increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour. The mechanism of this risk is not known. Therefore patients should be monitored for signs of depression and/or suicidal ideation and behaviours and appropriate treatment should be considered. Patients (and caregivers of patients) should be advised to seek medical advice should signs of depression and/or suicidal ideation or behaviour emerge.

Paediatric population: The tablet formulation is not adapted for use in infants and children under the age of 6 years. Available data in children did not suggest an impact on growth and puberty. However, long term effects on learning, intelligence, growth, endocrine function, puberty and childbearing potential in children remain unknown.

Antiepileptic medicinal products: Pre-marketing data from clinical studies conducted in adults indicate that levetiracetam did not influence the serum concentrations of existing antiepileptic medicinal products (phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproic acid, phenobarbital, lamotrigine, gabapentin and primidone) and that these antiepileptic medicinal products did not influence the pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam.

Probenecid: Probenecid (500 mg four times daily), a renal tubular secretion blocking agent, has been shown to inhibit the renal clearance of the primary metabolite but not of levetiracetam. Nevertheless, the concentration of this metabolite remains low.

Methotrexate: Concomitant administration of levetiracetam and methotrexate has been reported to decrease methotrexate clearance, resulting in increased/prolonged blood methotrexate concentration to potentially toxic levels. Blood methotrexate and levetiracetam levels should be carefully monitored in patients treated concomitantly with the two drugs.

Laxatives: There have been isolated reports of decreased levetiracetam efficacy when the osmotic laxative macrogol has been concomitantly administered with oral levetiracetam. Therefore, macrogol should not be taken orally for one hour before and for one hour after taking levetiracetam.

Food and alcohol: The extent of absorption of levetiracetam was not altered by food, but the rate of absorption was slightly reduced. No data on the interaction of levetiracetam with alcohol are available.

Levetiracetam is not recommended during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential not using contraception unless clinically necessary. Levetiracetam is excreted in human breast milk. Therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended. However, if levetiracetam treatment is needed during breastfeeding, the benefit/risk of the treatment should be weighed considering the importance of breastfeeding. No impact on fertility was detected in animal studies. No clinical data are available, the potential risk for humans is unknown.

Elderly (65 years and older): Adjustment of the dose is recommended in elderly patients with compromised renal function.

Renal impairment: The daily dose must be individualized according to renal function.

Hepatic impairment: No dose adjustment is needed in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. In patients with severe hepatic impairment, the creatinine clearance may underestimate renal insufficiency. Therefore a 50 % reduction of the daily maintenance dose is recommended when the creatinine clearance is < 60 ml/min.

Somnolence, agitation, aggression, depressed level of consciousness, respiratory depression and coma were observed with levetiracetam overdoses. After an acute overdose, the stomach may be emptied by gastric lavage or by induction of emesis. There is no specifc antidote for levetiracetam. Treatment of an overdose will be symptomatic and may include haemodialysis. The dialyser extraction efficiency is 60 % for levetiracetam and 74% for the primary metabolite.

Store at a cool temperature (not exceeding 25°C) and dry place, protected from light.