Citalopram Patient Tips

How it works

Citalopram is thought to increase levels of serotonin in the brain, and is used in the treatment of depression. It belongs to a group of medications known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors).

Upsides

• Citalopam is effective at relieving depression.
• Less likely to cause drowsiness than some other antidepressants.
• Has also been used off-label for other conditions such as anxiety, alcoholism, eating disorders, fibromyalgia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• SSRIs in general, are better tolerated than many other medicines used in the treatment of depression.

Downsides

If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include:

• Insomnia, dry mouth, drowsiness, nausea, increased sweating and sexual dysfunction. Side effects may be more likely with citalopram compared to escitalopram, a related drug.
• May increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in young adults (similar to other antidepressants).
• Interaction or overdosage may cause serotonin syndrome (symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, fast heart rate, dizziness, muscle tremor, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
• May cause a discontinuation syndrome if abruptly stopped or interrupted (symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, sweating, tremors, vivid dreams, insomnia).

Notes: In general, seniors or children, people with certain medical conditions (such as liver or kidney problems, heart disease, diabetes, seizures) or people who take other medications are more at risk of developing a wider range of side effects. For a complete list of all side effects, click here.

Bottom Line

Citalopram is an effective antidepressant but adverse effects may be more likely compared to escitalopram, a related drug.

Tips

• Blood tests may needed to be taken before treatment to check electrolyte levels (for example potassium, magnesium) and these corrected before treatment begins.
• Dosages greater than 40mg/day are not recommended.
• Report to your doctor any signs of worsening of depression or suicidal thoughts particularly during the first few months of therapy. Also monitor for serotonin syndrome.
• Do not stop suddenly as withdrawal symptoms may occur; taper off slowly under medical supervision.

Response and Effectiveness

• Peak effects occur within 4 hours; however it may take up to 4-6 weeks of regular dosing to achieve maximum antidepressant effect.