Escitalopram is a commonly prescribed medicine in the UK, used for depression & anxiety. If you have just been prescribed escitalopram, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 14 July 2026.
What is escitalopram?
Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant used for depression and anxiety disorders. It usually takes a few weeks to build its full effect.
Brands and strengths
Escitalopram is the name of the active ingredient. In the UK it is sold as generic escitalopram and under brand names including Cipralex and Enalto — all contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Escitalopram 5 mg tablets
- Escitalopram 10 mg tablets
- Escitalopram 20 mg tablets
- UK brands: Cipralex and Enalto
What escitalopram is used for
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders (incl. panic, OCD)
How to take escitalopram
Usually taken once a day, with or without food. Allow several weeks for the full effect and do not stop suddenly without advice. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions (BNF).
Side effects
Common effects include feeling sick, headache and trouble sleeping, which often ease. Seek urgent help if your mood worsens or you have thoughts of self-harm. This is not a full list — see the patient information leaflet (BNF).
Escitalopram: frequently asked questions
Yes. Cipralex is the original brand name for escitalopram; the generic is the same active ingredient.
They are closely related SSRIs; escitalopram is the active half of citalopram, so doses are lower. Your prescriber chooses which suits you.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for escitalopram, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your escitalopram delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for escitalopram, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE; BNF — Escitalopram.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.