AboutDr Alan Galbraith Expertise I can answer most questions on drugs, both medical and "recreational". Answers can be given in either technical or layperson terminology. My main areas of interest are psychiatric, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular drugs.
Experience I have been a university lecturer/head of department for almost thirty years, but am now retired. My research interests were alcohol, smoking and cardiovascular disease.
Organizations Institute of Biology, London.
Publications Principal author of "Fundamentals of Pharmacology" 4th Edition published in November 2003 by Pearson Education, Australia.
Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith Date: 2/21/2008 Subject: Lexapro vs Celexa
Question I have been taking antidepressants for awhile now and recently moved to a new state - thus needing a new doctor. I needed a new script for Lexapro (escitalopram). When I went to fill it I was told there was no generic. I thought that is what my other doctor prescribed and was given the generic (citalopram - this is what it said on my old bottle). Are these interchangable or does my new doctor need to write me a script specifically for citalopram?
Thanks for your help.
Answer Dear Raina
These drugs are very similar to each other and I agree there probably is not a generic for escitalopram. The difference is like comparing your right hand with your left hand - essentially the same apart from spatial orientation. It is said that escitalopram is more potent than citalopram but this has not been shown equivocally. I would suggest that, in view of the cost you revert to the citalopram and see if it maintains your mood, if not, you may need an increased dose.
