Citalopram (Celexa)

Celexa is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is used to treat major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. In addition, it can be used to treat panic attacks in some people who have not been helped by other medications. Citalopram may also be helpful for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. There are several different classes of antidepressants besides SSRI's. These include SNRI's (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) Tricyclic Antidepressants, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors and Atypical Antidepressants.

An SSRI like citalopram can prevent serotonin from being reabsorbed back into nerve cells. Because serotonin regulates several aspects of brain function, such as sleep, mood and emotion, citalopram can improve mood, reduce feelings of anxiety, and decrease severity of panic attacks and other panic disorder symptoms.

The most common side effects of citalopram are nausea, fatigue, dry mouth, sexual problems (impotence or reduced interest in sex), and drowsiness. Some other side effects include diarrhea, dizziness, sweating, and lightheadedness. Mild side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. Tell your provider if you experience more severe side effects or if your side effects don’t go away.

Citalopram is taken orally and should be taken around the same time daily. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Take citalopram as prescribed by your provider. Your provider may start you on a low dose and gradually increase your dose. The starting dose is typically 20 mg, taken once per day. The maximum dose is 40 mg, taken once per day.

Citalopram may be used as part of combination therapy, so it can be taken with other medications. However, certain medications interact with citalopram. Some of these include over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), MAOIs, some supplements, and some anxiety and depression medications. Therefore, it is important to tell your provider about any prescription medications, supplements, or over-the-counter medications you’re taking prior to starting citalopram.

Taking citalopram with medications that interact with it could increase your risk of internal bleeding or developing serotonin syndrome. Tell your provider if you have ever had long QT syndrome or any other heart issues, high blood pressure, or low levels of magnesium or potassium. Since citalopram can cause drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication, as it can worsen side effects. Because citalopram may cause problems in newborns, tell your provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.

While some patients may notice improvement in certain symptoms in the first 2 weeks of using Citalopram usually takes about 4-6 weeks to feel the full effect of the medication at helping to improve depression and anxiety symptoms.

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