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.
How 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.
Citalopram 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.
