What is Citalopram?
Citalopram, also known as Celexa, is an antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor class. Severe depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and social phobia are all handled with it. It may take one to four weeks for the antidepressant effects to appear.
Citalopram Uses
- Type of Drug: Antidepressant.
- Benefits: Raises energy levels and improves mood.
- Mechanism: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that restores the balance of serotonin in the brain.
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Get A Second OpinionHow to Use Citalopram HBR
Before Taking:
- Read the Prescription Guide and Patient Information Leaflet.
- Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Dosage Instructions
- Take as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning or evening.
- Can be taken with or without food.
- Recommended daily dose: 40 milligrams.
- Use a special measuring device/spoon for liquid form to ensure correct dosage.
- Your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it.
- Follow your doctor's instructions precisely.
- Do not increase your dose or take it more frequently than prescribed.
Directions To Take Citalopram HBR
- Take the medication regularly for best results.
- Take it at the same time every day to help you remember.
- Keep taking the medication even if you feel well.
- Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor.
- Abruptly stopping can worsen your condition and cause symptoms like mood swings, headaches, tiredness, sleep shifts, and electric shock-like sensations.
- Your doctor may gradually reduce your dose to prevent these symptoms.
- It can take 1 to 4 weeks to notice a difference.
- Full benefits may take several weeks.
Essential Precautions for Using Citalopram
Allergies:
- Inform your doctor if you are allergic to Citalopram, escitalopram, or any other substances.
- Inactive ingredients may cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Medical History:
- Inform your doctor about any personal or family history of:
- Bipolar/manic-depressive disorder
- Suicide attempts
- Liver disease
- Seizures
- Low sodium levels in the blood
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Glaucoma (angle-closure type)
Heart Rhythm Disorder:
- QT prolongation can cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (e.g: extreme dizziness, fainting).
- Risk may be increased with certain medical conditions or medications.
- Low potassium or magnesium levels can also increase risk.
Drowsiness and Blurred Vision:
- Citalopram can cause drowsiness or blurred vision.
- Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can exacerbate these effects.
- Avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing tasks that require alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can do so safely.
- Avoid alcoholic drinks and consult your doctor if using marijuana.
Older Adults:
- More susceptible to side effects such as bleeding, loss of coordination, and QT prolongation.
- Higher risk of hyponatremia (salt deficiency), especially if taking diuretics.
- Increased risk of falls due to lack of control.
Children:
- More vulnerable to side effects such as appetite loss and weight loss.
- Monitor weight and height in children taking this medication.
Pregnancy:
- Should be taken during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary.
- May harm the unborn child and cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns if taken during the last three months of pregnancy.
- Consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Citalopram during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding:
- Citalopram can pass into breast milk and may have adverse effects on a nursing baby.
- Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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Book an AppointmentCitalopram vs Fluoxetine
Citalopram | Fluoxetine |
---|---|
Citalopram, sold under the brand name Celexa | Fluoxetine is sold under the brand names Prozac and Sarafem |
Molecular Formula: C20H21FN2O | Formula: C17H18F3NO |
Citalopram is is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor class | Fluoxetine is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor class |
Citalopram is an antidepressant drug. It will raise your energy levels and make you feel better. Citalopram is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor that is selective (SSRI). | It is used for treating the major depressive disorder, bulimia nervosa, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. |
Molecular Weight: 324.4 g/mol | Molecular Weight: 309.33 g/mol |