Drug Comparison

Escitalopram vs. Metoprolol Succinate

Compare Escitalopram and Metoprolol Succinate: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.

Quick Comparison

CategoryEscitalopramMetoprolol Succinate
Drug ClassSSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)Beta-Blockers
Rx StatusRxRx
Generic AvailableNoNo
Typical Cost$4–$25/month$4-$25/month

Escitalopram Overview

Escitalopram is a medication belonging to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder by helping to restore the balance of a natural substance called serotonin in the brain.

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Metoprolol Succinate Overview

METOPROLOL SUCCINATE (brand name: Metoprolol Succinate) is a Beta-Blockers. 1 INDICATIONS & USAGE Metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets, metoprolol succinate, beta-adrenergic blocker indicated for the treatment of: • Hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and…

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How Each Drug Works

Escitalopram

The mechanism of antidepressant action of escitalopram, the S-enantiomer of racemic citalopram, is presumed to be linked to potentiation of serotonergic activity in the central nervous system (CNS) resulting from its inhibition of CNS neuronal reuptake of serotonin (5-HT).

Approved Uses (Indications)

Escitalopram

Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the:

  • treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older
  • treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults Escitalopram tablets are indicated for the treatment of:
  • major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older.
  • generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults. Additional pediatric use information is approved for AbbVie Inc.’s LEXAPRO ® (escitalopram) tablets. However, due to…

Metoprolol Succinate

Metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets, metoprolol succinate, beta-adrenergic blocker indicated for the treatment of:

  • Hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions.()
  • Angina Pectoris. ()
  • Heart Failure, to reduce the risk of cardiovascular mortality and heart failure hospitalizations in patients with heart failure() 1.1 Hypertension Metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, to lower blo…

Side Effects

Escitalopram

Metoprolol Succinate

Cost Comparison

Escitalopram

$4–$25/month

As a widely available generic, escitalopram is very affordable. Using discount cards like GoodRx can often reduce the cost to under $10 per month.

Metoprolol Succinate

$4-$25/month

Metoprolol Succinate is available as a low-cost generic. Patients can often find significant savings by using discount cards or patient assistance programs.

Drug Interaction: Minor

Escitalopram is a weak inhibitor of CYP2D6, the primary enzyme metabolizing metoprolol. Therefore, a clinically significant increase in metoprolol plasma levels is generally not expected, unlike with potent CYP2D6 inhibitors such as fluoxetine or paroxetine. However, additive pharmacodynamic effects on heart rate and blood pressure are theoretically possible.

Mechanism: Escitalopram is a weak inhibitor of cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6), which is the main metabolic pathway for metoprolol. While pharmacokinetic interactions are unlikely to be significant, both drugs can independently cause bradycardia, leading to a potential additive pharmacodynamic effect.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.