sri 20mg tablet - Escitalopram Oxalate (20mg) medicine

Ava 20mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Sterkem Pharma 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

  • New or worsening suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Agitation, hallucinations, fever, rapid heart rate, or muscle stiffness
  • Severe headache, confusion, weakness, or seizures
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Eye pain or blurred vision
  • Severe allergic reaction with rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is sri 20mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a prescription antidepressant containing Escitalopram Oxalate 20mg. It is used to treat depression and anxiety disorders by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. It is taken orally once daily and should be used under medical supervision.

  • Generic Name: Escitalopram Oxalate (20mg)
  • Manufacturer: Sterkem Pharma Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 sri 20mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एस्सिटालोप्रम ऑक्सालेट 20mg युक्त एक प्रिस्क्रिप्शन एंटीडिप्रेसेंट है। इसका उपयोग अवसाद (डिप्रेशन) और चिंता विकारों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह मस्तिष्क में सेरोटोनिन के स्तर को बढ़ाकर काम करती है, जिससे मूड बेहतर होता है और चिंता कम होती है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर के परामर्श से ही लेनी चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, सिरदर्द, नींद आना, अनिद्रा और पसीना आना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन सेरोटोनिन सिंड्रोम, हाइपोनेट्रेमिया और रक्तस्राव का खतरा हो सकता है। यदि आपको भ्रम, तेज़ दिल की धड़कन, बुखार या असामान्य चोट लगने का अनुभव हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को केवल डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। इसे दूसरों के साथ साझा न करें। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। इस दवा के साथ शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भवती होने की योजना बना रही हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो अपने डॉक्टर को सूचित करें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 sri 20mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Major Depressive Disorder","description":"This medicine is used to treat persistent sadness, loss of interest, and other symptoms of depression.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Generalized Anxiety Disorder","description":"It helps reduce excessive worry and anxiety that interferes with daily life.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Panic Disorder","description":"This medicine may be prescribed to reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Social Anxiety Disorder","description":"It can help manage intense fear and avoidance of social situations.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder","description":"Sometimes used as an alternative treatment for obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder","description":"May be prescribed off-label to relieve severe mood symptoms before menstruation.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Hot Flashes","description":"Sometimes used 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, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Escitalopram Oxalate (20mg)
Brand Namesri 20mg tablet
ManufacturerSterkem Pharma Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassNEURO CNS
Action ClassSelective Seretonin Reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) away from moisture and direct sunlight. 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
Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly; always consult your doctor for a gradual taper.
3
Monitor for any worsening of depression or suicidal thoughts, especially in the first few weeks.
4
Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of serotonin syndrome such as agitation, fever, or muscle stiffness.
5
Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.
6
Keep all follow-up appointments to monitor 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

AbsorptionThis medicine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The absorption is not affected by food.
DistributionThis medicine is widely distributed throughout the body. It crosses the blood-brain barrier to exert its effects in the central nervous system.
Protein BindingApproximately 56% of this medicine is bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismThis medicine is extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, primarily CYP2C19 and CYP3A4, into less active metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 27 to 32 hours.
ExcretionThis medicine is excreted mainly through the urine as metabolites and a small amount unchanged in feces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of this medicine is approximately 80%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of therapeutic effects may take 1 to 2 weeks, but full benefits may take 4 to 6 weeks.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 4 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe effects of this medicine last for about 24 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.

How It Works

This medicine works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, anxiety, and sleep. By blocking its reuptake, this medicine increases the amount of serotonin available in the synaptic cleft, which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety. It has little effect on other neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which is why it is called selective.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to Serotonin Transporter: This medicine binds to the serotonin transporter protein on the presynaptic neuron.
2
Inhibition of Reuptake: It blocks the reuptake of serotonin from the synaptic cleft back into the presynaptic neuron.
3
Increased Serotonin Levels: As a result, serotonin remains in the synaptic cleft for a longer time.
4
Enhanced Neurotransmission: The increased serotonin enhances communication between neurons, leading to mood improvement.
5
Adaptive Changes: Over time, this leads to adaptive changes in serotonin receptors and downstream signaling, which contribute to the therapeutic effects.

💡 How to Take sri 20mg tablet

Strength: Tablet, 20 mg

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3You can take it with or without food.
4Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless instructed.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 10 mg once daily, which may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg once daily after at least one week. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, and hepatic function. For elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment, a lower starting dose of 5 mg once daily is recommended.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients should start with a lower dose of 5 mg once daily, with a maximum of 10 mg once daily, due to reduced hepatic function and increased risk of hyponatremia.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Caution is advised 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 once daily.
Maximum Daily Dose20 mg per day

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Can take with or without food
Food does not affect absorption.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.

⏰ 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 sri 20mg 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 stiffness.
Hyponatremia (Rare (<0.1%))
Report symptoms like headache, confusion, weakness, or seizures to your doctor immediately.
Increased Bleeding Risk (Rare (<0.1%))
Inform your doctor if you notice unusual bruising or bleeding.
QT Prolongation (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you experience palpitations or fainting.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience eye pain or blurred vision.
Severe Allergic Reactions
Seek emergency help if you develop rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
Warfarin Major
NSAIDs Moderate
Omeprazole Moderate
Alcohol Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Other Serotonergic Drugs
  • Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • NSAIDs
  • CYP2C19 Inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of this medicine and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 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","Concomitant use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)","Concomitant use with pimozide"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults.","Serotonin syndrome may occur, especially with concomitant serotonergic drugs.","Hyponatremia may occur, particularly in elderly patients.","May impair physical and mental abilities required for driving or operating machinery.","Do not stop abruptly to avoid withdrawal symptoms."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine is excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised when used during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.

💊 Overdose Management

In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, tremor, drowsiness, and tachycardia. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. 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 the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine should only be taken as prescribed by a qualified doctor. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness and impair judgment. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Regular follow-up with your doctor is essential to monitor your response and adjust the dose if needed. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at increased risk of hyponatremia and falls. A lower starting dose is recommended, and regular monitoring is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits of continuing this medicine.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with certain anesthetic agents.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine, as it may increase bleeding risk during dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
🥗
Engage in regular physical activity.
😴
Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation.
💧
Stay connected with friends and family.
🧘
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise until you know how it affects you. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Include omega-3 fatty acids.
Limit caffeine and alcohol.
Stay well hydrated.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how it affects you. It may also affect your concentration; take precautions at work.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe when monitored by a doctor. Regular follow-up is needed to assess effectiveness and monitor for side effects such as hyponatremia or bleeding risk. Do not stop without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

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

Evidence: Well-established
Regular Exercise

Helps improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are known. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine while on this medicine.

📦 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

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing 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 taking this medicine as prescribed. After 2 weeks, she noticed improvement in her mood and energy levels. She experienced mild nausea initially, which subsided after a few days. She emphasizes the importance of taking it regularly and attending follow-up appointments.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use and patience are key to experiencing the full benefits of this medicine.
👤 A 50-year-old man with generalized anxiety disorder
He was prescribed this medicine for excessive worry and anxiety. He initially felt drowsy but it improved after a week. He found that taking it in the morning helped reduce insomnia. He advises others to communicate openly with their doctor about side effects.
💡 Lesson: Adjusting the timing of the dose can help manage side effects like insomnia.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine may start showing effects within 1 to 2 weeks, but full benefits may take 4 to 6 weeks.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine suddenly?

A: No, you should not stop taking this medicine suddenly as it can cause withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for a gradual taper.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: This medicine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Consult your doctor.

🤔 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 sri 20mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is addictive.
    Fact: This medicine is not addictive, but it can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. It should be tapered gradually under medical supervision.
  • Myth: This medicine changes your personality.
    Fact: This medicine does not change your personality. It helps restore normal mood and reduces anxiety, allowing you to feel more like yourself.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: You should not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and relapse.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Escitalopram Oxalate 20mg Tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Nexito 20mg Tablet
  • Cipralex 20mg Tablet
  • Lexapro 20mg Tablet
  • Feliz-S 20mg Tablet
  • Escape 20mg Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

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

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