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Escitalopram

Escitalopram & Folic Acid

Suppresses absorption of Folic Acid. This medication is commonly used for Depression

Why Escitalopram affects Folic Acid

Research suggests that folic acid supplementation can significantly improve the effectiveness of SSRI medications such as fluoxetine (commonly known as Prozac). This benefit seems to be linked to lowering blood levels of homocysteine, an amino acid. Elevated homocysteine levels have been associated with depression. Supplementing with sufficient folic acid may help the body regulate homocysteine levels, potentially creating a more favorable environment for antidepressants to work effectively.

Clinical Evidence

Alec Coppen, John Bailey. Enhancement of the antidepressant action of fluoxetine by folic acid: a randomised, placebo controlled trial. Journal of Affective Disorders. Volume 60, Issue 2. 2000. Pages 121-130. Jacka FN, Maes M, Pasco JA, Williams LJ, Berk M. Nutrient intakes and the common mental disorders in women. J Affect Disord. 2012 Dec 1;141(1):79-85. Kim TH, Choi JY, Lee HH, Park Y. Associations between Dietary Pattern and Depression in Korean Adolescent Girls. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol. 2015 Dec;28(6):533-7. Shelton RC, Sloan Manning J, Barrentine LW, Tipa EV. Assessing Effects of l-Methylfolate in Depression Management: Results of a Real-World Patient Experience Trial. Prim Care Companion CNS Disord. 2013;15(4):PCC.13m01520.

Recommended Replacement

Folate (0.2mg as L-5-Methylfolate)0.34 DFE

Other Nutrients Affected by Escitalopram

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