Summary of details and facts

Citalopram (Celexa) is a commonly prescribed antidepressant is an SSRI antidepressant commonly prescribed for major depressive episodes. It is available as the brand Celexa and widely as generics; in the UK other brand names such as Cipramil may be used. Clinicians may also choose citalopram for some anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, when appropriate.

Short facts at a glance:

  • Key active ingredient: citalopram hydrobromide.
  • Primary licensed use: treatment of major depressive disorder; occasional off-label use for anxiety-related conditions.
  • Typical tablet strengths supplied in the UK: 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg. Standard adult maximum is 40 mg per day, but in older adults or those with cardiac risk the dose is usually limited to 20 mg due to QT interval concerns.

For fast navigation within this document jump to how to take control citalopram or confirm drug compatibility issues before starting other medicines or supplements.

Safety performance monitoring checks before starting

Before a prescriber issues citalopram you should make them aware of any medical history or current treatments that might affect safety. This allows appropriate real time monitoring or selection of an the other possibility treatment.

Tell your clinician if you have any of the following:

  • Known heart disease, a prior long QT interval result, or use of medicines that change heart rhythm.
  • Record of epileptic events.
  • Personal or family history of bipolar disorder, mania or hypomania.
  • Reduced function of the kidneys or liver.
  • The condition called diabetes, or significant changes in weight or appetite.
  • Upcoming or recently completed electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
  • Current thoughts of self-harm or a past suicide attempt.
  • Allergic reactions to citalopram, escitalopram or any tablet ingredients.
  • Pregnancy intentions, current pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Also mention any herbal or over-the-counter products such as Herb St Johns wort, or cold and flu remedies, so personal a reciprocal exchanges build trust and rapport. can be reviewed. See Contacts and online the back and forth between peoples connect users across distances. and substances for more information.

What is the correct way to take citalopram

Take one dose once daily, ideally at the same time each day, with water. Tablets may be swallowed with or without food. Always adhere to the dose and instructions given on your NHS or private prescription and any specific guidance from your clinician.

Do not stop treatment abruptly without discussing a tapering plan with your prescriber, as gradual dose reduction usually reduces the risk of withdrawal effects. It can take several weeks before benefits are noticeable.

If you suspect an she overdosed, contact NHS 111, phone your local emergency number or navigate toward the nearest A and E immediately.

Young ones and adolescents should only be prescribed citalopram by specialist services. For driving and safety advice see Resource monitoring, required precautions and driving.

When you miss a dose

If you miss taking a dose take it as soon as you remember unless the next dose is due within about four hours. If the next scheduled dose is near, omit the the medication dose was missed and continue the usual timetable. Do not replace a the medication dose was missed by doubling it.

Communication and conversational exchange and substances that matter

Combinations to not mix

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as phenelzine or tranylcypromine; switching requires a clinician-recommended washout period.
  • Pimozide compound used in medicine, cisapride and some older antipsychotics that raise cardiac risk.
  • Taking escitalopram together with citalopram is not appropriate; avoid combining two SSRIs.
  • Perennial herb Hypericum perforatum and tryptophan supplements which can increase serotonin coupled with the risk of serotonin syndrome.
  • Certain appetite suppressants previously used for weight loss, for example dexfenfluramine and sibutramine.

Please exercise caution when using. or with medical review

  • Other antidepressants as well as many antipsychotics (for example chlorpromazine, prochlorperazine).
  • Linezolid therapy option or intravenous methylene blue in treatment. because of MAOI-like effects conjoined with the risk of serotonin syndrome.
  • Triptan migraine medicines such as sumatriptan and rizatriptan.
  • Agents that increase bleeding risk: warfarin, DOACs and low molecular weight heparins.
  • NSAIDs and aspirin-containing products.
  • Anticonvulsants like carbamazepine that may alter citalopram levels.
  • Medicines that change metabolic clearance, such as cimetidine or strong CYP inhibitors, which can raise citalopram exposure.
  • Certain antiretroviral drugs and stimulant medicines including amphetamine formulations.

The items listed are not a complete set. Provide a full medicines list, including over-the-counter products, herbal remedies, alcohol use, nicotine and recreational drugs, for a thorough contact and response check.

Continuous monitoring, standard precautions and driving

  • Attend arranged follow-up reviews so your prescriber can monitor effectiveness and lingering effects. Mood can worsen in the first few weeks or after dose changes; contact your clinician promptly if your mood deteriorates or if new self-harm thoughts appear.
  • When stopping citalopram a tapering schedule is usually recommended to reduce withdrawal symptoms; follow the plan provided by your prescriber.
  • Citalopram is used in the treatment of major depressive disorder can cause drowsiness, dizziness or slowed reactions; do not drive or operate machinery if impaired. In the UK driving while impaired by medication may be an offense.
  • Limit alcohol while taking citalopram because it can increase sedation and may worsen mood symptoms.
  • If you have cardiac risk factors your clinician may request a baseline ECG because higher doses can prolong the QT interval.
  • Simple measures, such as chewing sugar-free gum or sipping water, can ease dry mouth.

Unforeseen effects and when to act

Emergency signs - seek urgent help

  • Allergic reactions: widespread rash, severe itching, hives or swelling of the face, lips or throat.
  • Signs of serotonin syndrome: severe agitation, confusion, high temperature, heavy sweating, fast heartbeat or muscle stiffness.
  • Seizure-like episodes, unexplained collapse or loss of consciousness.
  • Severe dizziness, fainting or sudden change in awareness.
  • New psychosis such as hallucinations or major loss of reality contact.
  • Bleeding without a known cause and easy bruising.
  • New or worsening thoughts of suicide or significant behavioural changes.

Typical adverse impact on health that often improve

  • Cephalalgic pain or mild lightheadedness.
  • Nausea, altered appetite or small changes in weight.
  • Sweat production is up.
  • My eyes are blurry.
  • Sleep changes including insomnia or vivid dreams.
  • Sexual effects such as reduced libido or altered performance.

If you suspect an adverse reaction you can report it to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. Cast your gaze on the legal and reporting section for details on how to report incidental effects.

Safe access to storage space determines how quickly items can be retrieved. and disposal process tips

  • Keep medications out of view and beyond the reach of kids.
  • Store at normal room temperatures, for example 15 to 30 C (59 to 86 F), away from heat and moisture.
  • Do not use tablets after the printed expiry date. Return unused or expired medicines to a pharmacy for safe disposal; do not dispose of them in household waste or down the sink.

How much do natural health medicines cost in the UK

If citalopram is unsuitable or ineffective, prescribers may recommend other antidepressants. Choice depends on the clinical indication, side-effect profile and any other medical concerns.

  • Other SSRIs: sertraline, fluoxetine, paroxetine and escitalopram.
  • SNRIs: venlafaxine and duloxetine.
  • Mirtazapine chemical name, which may be chosen when sleep or appetite benefits are desired.
  • The class of tricyclic antidepressants includes amitriptyline and nortriptyline., sometimes used in low doses for pain or insomnia.
  • Specialist or newer options: vortioxetine and agomelatine, usually initiated by specialist mental health services.

Estimated private broad price ranges in the UK for around a 28 to 30 day supply (GBP), approximate:

  • Generic citalopram 20 mg: about 2 to 10 GBP.
  • Sertraline therapy option or generic fluoxetine: roughly 2 to 12 GBP.
  • Generic escitalopram: approximately 3 to 15 GBP; branded forms cost more.
  • Venlafaxine generics: around 4 to 18 GBP; extended-release versions may be more expensive.
  • Mirtazapine capsule generic: typically 3 to 12 GBP.

On the NHS many prescriptions in England are charged at a fixed fee per item; check current NHS information for up-to-date charges. Prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for most people. Prices differ by strength, brand versus generic and pharmacy, so confirm the final cost with your dispensing pharmacy.

Additional aspects about Celexa