Citalopram
Mental healthAlso known as Celexa
Citalopram is an SSRI antidepressant. It works by raising serotonin, a brain chemical tied to mood, and like all SSRIs it needs patience: expect two to six weeks before you feel the full benefit, often with side effects arriving first. One thing specific to citalopram: at higher amounts it can affect your heart rhythm, which is why your doctor is careful about the amount and about mixing it with certain other medicines.
How to take it
When
Once a day, morning or evening — pick the time that suits you and stick with it.
Food
With or without food, whichever is easier on your stomach.
Avoid
St. John's wort and other serotonin boosters. Ask before regular ibuprofen or naproxen use — SSRIs can raise bleeding risk.
Good to know
Watch for new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts, especially under 25 — tell someone and call your doctor right away. Don't stop suddenly; your doctor will taper you off.
Missed a dose?
Take it when you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose — then just skip it. Never double up.
Common side effects
- Nausea early on, which usually settles down
- Feeling sleepy or, for some people, having trouble sleeping
- Dry mouth
- More sweating than usual
- Sexual side effects — common with SSRIs and worth mentioning to your doctor
Call a doctor if
- Fainting, a pounding or irregular heartbeat, or severe dizziness — this can signal a heart rhythm problem, get help now
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat — this is an emergency, call for help immediately
- Fever with agitation, racing heart, or muscle twitching — possible serotonin syndrome, get help now
- Thoughts of hurting yourself — tell someone right away and call your doctor or a crisis line immediately
- Unusual bleeding or bruising — get medical help quickly