I've been on citalopram for 9 days now, and am really not getting any sleep. Last night I didn't drop off at all, very distressing and then had to spend all day at work on my feet
Is anyone else struggling to sleep?
- Asked
- 7 May 2015 by RubyTwo
- Updated
- 28 May 2015
- Topics
- depression, sleep disorders, citalopram, sleep, anxiety and stress, sleep disorder
Responses (3)
Hi, unfortunately i is likely that you will experience induction side effects when starting out on SSRI's, insomnia is one of the possibilities. It will improve, it will take a little time though. It takes 4 weeks (approximately) for the medication to work to it's full potential & for these side effects to stop. I agree about taking Citalopram in the morning, so if you aren't taking it at this time of day, you should consider doing so. It is common for people to feel worse before they feel better when starting an antidepressant. I know that is of no comfort to you right now, but know it will get better...

Further Information
- Citalopram Information for Consumers
- Citalopram Information for Healthcare Professionals (includes dosage details)
- Side Effects of Citalopram (detailed)
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Thanks for your responses both of you, I have started taking it in the morning but as you may or may not know, the half life of citalopram is 35 hours so it doesn't make much difference to side effects. Fortunately they seem to be lifting somewhat and I was able to sleep last night without any sedative tablets. Hooray! Hate feeling like a zombie