Drug Safety Assessment of Escitalopram Usage in its Different Indications with its Risk-Benefit Profile Management: A Global Review

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyse the patient safety profile of using escitalopram in its different approved indications in addition to identifying, assessing the potential risk (if any), from a review of epidemiological data. The primary focus of the safety monitoring practice is collection, compilation, evaluation and informing of the risk benefit profile of the drug.

Characterizationof escitalopram indications were analysed from different cases reported in various literature sources. Each indication’s epidemiology, pathophysiology and risk factors were discussed. Effects of each indication in different population have been identified. Occurrence of incidence with existing medical history was analysed. Internal body parts or chemical factors which may cause those indications have been discussed. General cause of causing these indications has been identified. In addition, the safety concern with identified risk of escitalopram was analysed from The Co-ordination group for Mutual recognition and Decentralised procedures – human (CMDh) and the important safety concerns were characterized.

Based on the review of available information, the benefit risk profile of escitalopram is positive in its all approved indications. Routine risk minimization measures which include collecting, processing and assessing the individual cases pertaining to escitalopram adverse events are considered sufficient to monitor the benefit-risk profile of escitalopram. So, the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, escitalopram can be considered to be one of the most effective and well tolerated medicines for depressed patients.