This medication description is not meant for treatment prescription without the intervention of a specialist.

Common Uses

Cipralex is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor class. It is approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder; other indications include social anxiety disorder, panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

How to Take

The recommended dosage of Cipralex is 10–40 mg a day, averaging between 10 and 20. Exceptions include the elderly, who should only take up to 10 mg a day, and pregnant women in their third trimester should not use Cipralex at all.

Warning and Precautions

Patients, their families, and their caregivers should be encouraged to be alert to the emergence of anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, akathisia (psychomotor restlessness), hypomania, mania, other unusual changes in behavior, worsening of depression, and suicidal ideation, especially early during antidepressant treatment and when the dose is adjusted up or down. Families and caregivers of patients should be advised to observe for the emergence of such symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt. Such symptoms should be reported to the patient's prescriber or health professional, especially if they are severe, abrupt in onset, or were not part of the patient's presenting symptoms. Symptoms such as these may be associated with an increased risk for suicidal thinking and behavior and indicate a need for very close monitoring and possibly changes in the medication.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Overdose

If you think that you have taken too much of the medicine seek medical attention immediately.

Storage

Store Cipralex at room temperature, in a tightly sealed container. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Possible Side Effects

Such side effects may occur: difficulty in sleeping, confusion, shaking, usually of the hands, disturbances of the gut such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain, visual disturbances, decreased appetite, fever, dizziness, nervousness, sleepiness, sexual problems, rash or itching.

More Information

The information given above is a summary. Your pharmacist can provide more information about Cipralex. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.