hicalm 10mg tablet - Escitalopram Oxalate (10mg) medicine

Feliz-S 10 Tablet (Escitalopram 10 mg): Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Ikon Remedies Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 24, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 24, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Thoughts of harming yourself or others
  • Agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, fever, or muscle rigidity
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Severe headache with confusion or weakness
  • Seizures
  • Eye pain or vision changes
  • Irregular heartbeat or fainting

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is hicalm 10mg tablet used for?

This medicine contains Escitalopram Oxalate 10 mg, an SSRI antidepressant used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. It is taken orally once daily and may take several weeks to show full effect.

  • Generic Name: Escitalopram Oxalate (10mg)
  • Manufacturer: Ikon Remedies Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 hicalm 10mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एस्सिटालोप्रम ऑक्सालेट 10 मिलीग्राम युक्त है और अवसाद (डिप्रेशन) तथा चिंता विकार (एंग्जायटी) के इलाज में उपयोग की जाती है। यह मस्तिष्क में सेरोटोनिन नामक रसायन के स्तर को बढ़ाकर मूड और भावनाओं को संतुलित करने में मदद करती है। यह दवा मुंह से ली जाती है और इसका असर दिखने में कुछ सप्ताह लग सकते हैं। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना बंद न करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, सिरदर्द, नींद आना, अनिद्रा और पसीना आना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन सेरोटोनिन सिंड्रोम, रक्तस्राव और हृदय संबंधी समस्याएं हो सकती हैं। यदि आपको बेचैनी, भ्रम, तेज धड़कन, बुखार या असामान्य रक्तस्राव हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अचानक बंद न करें क्योंकि इससे चक्कर आना, मतली और चिड़चिड़ापन हो सकता है। शराब से बचें क्योंकि इससे नींद और अधिक आ सकती है। गाड़ी चलाते समय सावधानी बरतें। अन्य दवाओं के बारे में डॉक्टर को बताएं। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 hicalm 10mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Major Depressive Disorder","description":"This medicine is used to treat symptoms of depression such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, and fatigue.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Generalized Anxiety Disorder","description":"It helps reduce excessive worry, restlessness, and tension associated with generalized anxiety disorder.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Panic Disorder","description":"May be prescribed to reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Social Anxiety Disorder","description":"Used to alleviate anxiety in social situations.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder","description":"Sometimes used off-label to reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder","description":"May be used off-label to relieve severe premenstrual mood symptoms.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Hot Flashes","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label to reduce hot flashes in menopausal women.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Irritable Bowel Syndrome","description":"May help with abdominal pain and bowel habits in some patients.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Major Depressive Disorder

Also treats: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Escitalopram Oxalate (10mg)
Brand Namehicalm 10mg tablet
ManufacturerIkon Remedies Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassNEURO CNS
Action ClassSelective Seretonin Reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from moisture and heat. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
2
If it causes drowsiness, take it at bedtime; if it causes insomnia, take it in the morning.
3
Do not stop this medicine abruptly; always consult your doctor for a gradual taper.
4
Inform your doctor about all other medications, especially MAOIs, NSAIDs, and blood thinners.
5
Monitor for any worsening of depression or suicidal thoughts, especially in the first few weeks.
6
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it can worsen side effects.
7
Keep regular follow-up appointments to assess your response and adjust the dose if needed.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Persistent sadness
This medicine is commonly prescribed for depression.
Likely Use
Excessive worry
This medicine is used for generalized anxiety disorder.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionEscitalopram is well absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations typically reached in about 4 hours. Food does not significantly affect its absorption.
DistributionEscitalopram is widely distributed throughout the body. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is distributed into breast milk.
Protein BindingApproximately 56% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismEscitalopram is metabolized in the liver primarily by CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 enzymes to less active metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 27-32 hours in adults.
ExcretionEscitalopram and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine (approximately 80%) and feces (approximately 20%).
BioavailabilityThe absolute bioavailability of escitalopram is approximately 80%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of antidepressant effect may take 1-2 weeks, with full therapeutic benefits often seen after 4-6 weeks.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 4 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe effects last for about 24 hours, allowing once-daily dosing.

How It Works

Escitalopram works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) at the presynaptic neuronal membrane. This inhibition increases the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft, enhancing serotonergic neurotransmission. The exact therapeutic mechanism for antidepressant and anxiolytic effects is not fully understood but is thought to involve adaptive changes in serotonin receptors and downstream signaling pathways over time.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to Serotonin Transporter: Escitalopram binds with high affinity to the serotonin transporter (SERT) on presynaptic neurons.
2
Inhibition of Serotonin Reuptake: This binding inhibits the reuptake of serotonin from the synaptic cleft back into the presynaptic neuron.
3
Increased Synaptic Serotonin: As a result, serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft increase, leading to enhanced serotonergic neurotransmission.
4
Adaptive Receptor Changes: Over time, this leads to downregulation of serotonin receptors and changes in downstream signaling, which are thought to mediate the therapeutic effects.

💡 How to Take hicalm 10mg tablet

Strength: Immediate-release tablet, 10 mg

1Take this medicine orally with or without food.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
4If it causes drowsiness, take it at bedtime; if it causes insomnia, take it in the morning.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless instructed by your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is 10 mg once daily, which may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg once daily after at least one week. For elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment, a lower starting dose of 5 mg once daily is recommended. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients should start with 5 mg once daily and may be increased to 10 mg once daily. Maximum dose is 10 mg daily in patients over 65 years due to increased risk of hyponatremia and QT prolongation.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
Hepatic ImpairmentFor patients with hepatic impairment, a starting dose of 5 mg once daily is recommended, with a maximum of 10 mg daily.
Maximum Daily Dose20 mg per day for adults; 10 mg per day for elderly or those with hepatic impairment.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With or without food
Take consistently
Food does not significantly affect absorption.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases drowsiness and impairs judgment.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of hicalm 10mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Drowsiness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Insomnia (Common (5-10%))
Take in the morning if it causes sleep problems. Consult doctor if persistent.
Increased Sweating (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. Consult doctor if excessive.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Serotonin Syndrome (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, fever, or muscle rigidity.
Hyponatremia (Rare (<0.1%))
Report symptoms like confusion, weakness, or seizures to your doctor immediately.
Increased Bleeding Risk (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical help if you notice unusual bleeding or bruising.
QT Prolongation (Rare (<0.1%))
Inform your doctor if you have heart conditions or take other QT-prolonging drugs.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Seek immediate care if you experience eye pain, vision changes, or swelling.
Seizures
Call emergency services if a seizure occurs.
Mania
Contact your doctor if you experience unusually elevated mood or energy.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
Warfarin Major
NSAIDs Major
Tramadol Major
Triptans Major
Omeprazole Moderate
Fluconazole Moderate
Ketoconazole Moderate
Alcohol Moderate
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
  • Other serotonergic drugs (e.g., triptans, tramadol, SSRIs, SNRIs)
  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), NSAIDs, aspirin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, fluconazole)
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
  • Alcohol

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impair judgment. It may also worsen depression.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to escitalopram or any component of the formulation","Concurrent use with MAOIs","Concurrent use with pimozide","Congenital long QT syndrome"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May increase risk of suicidal thoughts in children, adolescents, and young adults.","Do not stop abruptly; taper gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.","Use with caution in patients with a history of mania or seizures.","May cause hyponatremia, especially in the elderly.","May increase bleeding risk, especially when combined with NSAIDs or anticoagulants.","May impair ability to drive or operate machinery.","Avoid alcohol during treatment."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Escitalopram is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but monitor the infant for drowsiness, poor feeding, or irritability. Consult your doctor.

💊 Overdose Management

In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, dizziness, and in severe cases, QT prolongation, seizures, or serotonin syndrome. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Activated charcoal may be considered if within 1 hour of ingestion. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop suddenly as it can cause withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and irritability. Avoid alcohol as it can worsen drowsiness and impair judgment. Inform your doctor about all other medications, especially MAOIs, NSAIDs, and blood thinners. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for the next dose; do not double dose. Regular follow-up with your doctor is important to monitor your progress and adjust treatment if needed.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at increased risk of hyponatremia and QT prolongation. Start with a lower dose (5 mg) and monitor closely.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits of continuing this medicine. It may be continued if needed, but close monitoring is required.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about this medicine before surgery. It may interact with certain anesthetic agents and increase bleeding risk.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist about this medicine before any dental procedure. It may increase bleeding risk, especially if combined with NSAIDs.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
🥗
Engage in regular physical activity like walking or yoga.
😴
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation.
💧
Stay connected with friends and family for emotional support.
🧘
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
🌞
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Exercise is generally safe while taking this medicine. However, if you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid strenuous activities until you know how it affects you.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like fish and flaxseeds.
Reduce caffeine intake as it may increase anxiety.
Stay well hydrated.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. It may take a few weeks to adjust. Inform your employer if your job involves safety-sensitive tasks.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or no improvement after several weeks, your doctor may adjust the dose or switch to another medicine. Gradual tapering is necessary to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe but requires regular monitoring for mood changes, hyponatremia, and QT prolongation. Periodic assessment of renal and hepatic function is advised. Do not stop without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Can be used alone or in combination with medication for depression and anxiety.

Evidence: Well-established
Mindfulness and Meditation

May help reduce anxiety and improve mood.

Evidence: Moderate
Regular Exercise

Has been shown to improve symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific interactions with vaccines are known. However, consult your doctor before any vaccination.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. If traveling across time zones, adjust the timing gradually to maintain a consistent schedule. Check local customs regulations for controlled substances.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with major depressive disorder
She started this medicine as prescribed for her depression. After 3 weeks, she noticed improvement in her mood and energy levels. She experienced mild nausea initially, which subsided after taking it with food. She emphasizes the importance of not missing doses and regular follow-ups.
💡 Lesson: Consistency and patience are key; full benefits may take several weeks.
👤 A 50-year-old man with generalized anxiety disorder
He was prescribed this medicine for excessive worry and restlessness. He initially felt drowsy but it improved after a week. He found that taking it in the evening helped with sleep. He advises others to avoid alcohol and to communicate openly with their doctor about side effects.
💡 Lesson: Adjusting the timing of the dose can help manage side effects; open communication with the doctor is crucial.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Initial effects may be seen in 1-2 weeks, but full therapeutic benefits usually take 4-6 weeks.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine suddenly?

A: No, stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms. Always consult your doctor for a gradual taper.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor. It may be used if benefits outweigh risks, but close monitoring is needed.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for hicalm 10mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Antidepressants are addictive.
    Fact: This medicine is not habit-forming, but stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. It should be tapered gradually.
  • Myth: You will feel better immediately.
    Fact: It may take 1-2 weeks for initial effects and 4-6 weeks for full benefits.
  • Myth: You can stop taking it once you feel better.
    Fact: Stopping abruptly can cause relapse and withdrawal. Always consult your doctor before stopping.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Escitalopram Oxalate 10 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Nexito 10 Tablet
  • Cipralex 10 Tablet
  • Lexapro 10 Tablet
  • Feliz-S 10 Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Escitalopram","class":"SSRI","half_life":"27-32 hours","common_side_effects":"Nausea, headache, drowsiness"},{"medicine":"Sertraline","class":"SSRI","half_life":"22-36 hours","common_side_effects":"Diarrhea, nausea, insomnia"},{"medicine":"Fluoxetine","class":"SSRI","half_life":"4-6 days","common_side_effects":"Insomnia, anxiety, nausea"}]

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