Comparison of Various Dosages of Escitalopram on Anxiety-like Behavior and Body Weight in Male Rats under Severe Chronic Stress

Escitalopram did not induce significant changes in anxiety-like behavior under stress-free conditions. The simultaneous administration of escitalopram, particularly at a dosage of 10 mg/kg, exhibited a protective effect in reversing of anxiety-like behavior under stressed conditions. Both doses of escitalopram resulted in a reduction of body weight in both stress and stress-free conditions, highlighting the dual behavioral and physiological effects of escitalopram. These findings offer novel insights into the dose-specific effects and potential side effects of escitalopram, thereby informing its clinical application for stress-related disorders.