What is citalopram oral pill?
Citalopram Oral Tablet: Adverse Effects, Dosage Instructions, and Beyond
Citalopram oral pills are a generic prescription medication, approved by the FDA for treating melancholy in grown-ups.
Melancholy involves persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed. This condition occurs in spells, which are periods when symptoms last for at least 2 weeks, but often longer.
Drug specifics
Citalopram is categorized as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are a type of antidepressant.
Citalopram oral pills are pills that you swallow. They're available in the following strengths: 10 milligrams (mg), 20 mg, and 40 mg.
Note: Citalopram also comes in other forms: an oral solution and oral disintegrating pills (which dissolve in your mouth). This article focuses only on citalopram oral pills. For information on citalopram's other forms, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Citalopram isn't approved for use in children under the age of 18 years.
Brands
The brand-name version of citalopram oral pills is Celexa.
Note: The other forms of citalopram have their own brand-name versions. For more information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Efficiency
For information about the efficiency of citalopram oral pills, see the “Citalopram oral pill uses” section below.
Citalopram oral pills are a generic drug. A generic drug is an exact duplicate of the active drug in a brand-name medication. Celexa is the brand-name medication that citalopram oral pills are based on. A generic is considered to be as safe and effective as the original drug. Generics often cost less than brand-name drugs.
If you're interested in using Celexa instead of citalopram, consult your doctor. They can tell you if Celexa comes in strengths that you can use for your condition. If you have insurance, you'll also need to check whether your plan will cover Celexa.
To learn more about how generics compare with brand-name drugs, see this article.
Citalopram oral pill side effects
Citalopram oral pills can cause mild and serious side effects. The following lists contain some of the key side effects that may occur while taking citalopram. These lists do not include all possible side effects.
For more information about the possible side effects of citalopram oral pills, consult your doctor or pharmacist. They can give you tips on how to manage any side effects that may be concerning or bothersome.
Note: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tracks side effects of drugs it has approved. If you would like to notify the FDA about a side effect you've had with citalopram oral pills, you can do so through MedWatch.
Mild side effects
Mild side effects* of citalopram oral pills can include:
- lightheadedness
- dry mouth
- feeling restless
- nausea
- sexual side effects†
- drowsiness
- insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
- weakness
- vomiting
- minor weight loss†
Most of these side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. But if they become more severe or don't go away, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects from citalopram oral pills aren’t common, but they can occur. Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you're having a medical emergency.
Serious side effects and their symptoms can include:
- Abnormal or excessive bleeding. Symptoms can include:
- bleeding or bruising more than normal
- blood in your urine or stool
- nosebleeds
- Low blood sodium levels. Symptoms can include:
- confusion
- headache
- feeling weak or unsteady
- Serotonin syndrome (buildup of a substance called serotonin in the body). Symptoms can include:
- changes in blood pressure
- dizziness
- feeling agitated
- rapid heart rate
- sweating or fever
- tremor
- Long QT syndrome.*
- Allergic reaction.*
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in young adults.*†
Side effect details
Here’s some detail on certain side effects citalopram oral pills may cause.
Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in young adults
Citalopram has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the FDA. A boxed warning alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
Drugs used to treat depression, including citalopram, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in people ages 24 years and younger. This is more likely to occur when a person first starts taking the medication and any time the dose is adjusted.
Citalopram hasn’t been studied in people younger than 18 years of age, so children shouldn't use this drug.
If you notice changes in your thoughts or behaviors while taking citalopram, contact your doctor right away. If you have thoughts of suicide or attempt to harm yourself, seek medical attention immediately.
Help is out there
If you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support:
Reach out to the 988 Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 assistance from compassionate counselors who offer free and confidential support. Alternatively, text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor via text message for around-the-clock assistance. If you're not in the USA, look up a helpline in your country at Befrienders Worldwide. In an emergency, dial 911 or your local emergency services number.
If calling for someone else, stay with them until help arrives, removing any harmful substances or weapons if it's safe to do so. If you're not in the same household, remain on the phone until assistance arrives.
Weight changes
No substantial weight gain was reported in individuals utilizing citalopram in clinical trials. However, minor weight loss may occur whilst using the drug. In clinical studies, those using citalopram lost approximately 0.5 kg (1 lb) more than those taking a placebo.
If you've concerns regarding weight fluctuations whilst taking citalopram, discuss these with your physician or pharmacist. They may suggest strategies to maintain a weight that's suitable for you.
Sexual Side Effects
Possible sexual side effects from citalopram usage have been documented. Nevertheless, these weren't prevalent in participants of clinical trials.
During these trials, males experienced the following sexual side effects from citalopram:
- reduced sexual desire
- delayed ejaculation
- erectile dysfunction
- inability to achieve orgasm in females
Remember that mental health conditions, including depression, may also facilitate these symptoms.
If you encounter sexual side effects while using citalopram, consult your doctor. They could recommend treatments for any side effects you experience or suggest alternative medication for your condition.
Long QT Syndrome
There is a rare possibility that citalopram may trigger long QT syndrome, a heart disorder affecting electrical activity. This side effect was reported during clinical trials.
The QT interval, part of your heart rhythm, may extend beyond normal limits in long QT syndrome (also known as QT prolongation). This could lead to arrhythmias, potentially dangerous heartbeat complications.
Individuals at a higher risk for this side effect include:
- those born with long QT syndrome
- seniors (60 years or older)
- those with liver issues
- individuals with slow CYP2C19 metabolism
- people taking certain other medications
- those who have recently experienced a heart attack
- heart failure patients
Preventing or treating this side effect
Before commencing citalopram treatment, inform your medical professional about any medications you take and any medical conditions you may have. They might prescribe a different dosage of citalopram based on your medical history. Alternatively, they may suggest trying another medication to treat your depression.
Depending on your medical background and medications, your doctor might monitor your heart health using an electrocardiogram (EKG). They may also request blood tests to check your blood electrolyte levels, such as potassium and magnesium. Low electrolyte levels can enhance your vulnerability to long QT syndrome while taking citalopram.
Symptoms of long QT syndrome often go unnoticed. However, if you experience any of the following, contact your doctor immediately:
- dizziness
- fainting
- heart palpitations (the feeling that your heart is skipping beats)
These could indicate a heart rhythm issue, which can be serious. Your physician may want to evaluate your heart rhythm personally for potential complications.
Allergic reactions
As with most medications, some people may have an allergic reaction to citalopram oral tablets.
Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction include:
- skin rash
- itchiness
- flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
A severe allergic reaction is less common but still possible. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include:
- swelling under your skin, typically around your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
- swelling of your tongue, mouth, or throat
- difficulty breathing
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to citalopram, as the reaction could worsen. If you believe the symptoms to be life-threatening or if you're experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Citalopram oral tablet dosage
The citalopram oral tablet dosage prescribed by your doctor will depend on several factors, including the severity of your condition, your age, other medical conditions, and any side effects you may experience whilst taking citalopram. Generally, your doctor will initiate treatment with the lowest effective dosage, gradually adjusting it to achieve the best dose for you. Ultimately, your doctor will prescribe the smallest dosage that yields the desired results.
The following information offers common dosages and recommendations. However, it's crucial to adhere to the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your healthcare provider will determine the best dosage suitable for your needs.
Drug strengths
Citalopram oral tablets are available in the following concentrations:
- 10 milligrams (mg)
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
Dosage for depression
For adults suffering from depression, the suggested starting dosage of citalopram oral tablets is 20 mg once a day. After a week of consuming this dose, your doctor may increase it to the maximum dose of 40 mg once a day.
Individuals falling into specific categories should avoid dosages higher than 20 mg once a day. This applies to:
- Individuals aged 60 years or above
- Individuals with liver issues
- Individuals who are poor CYP2C19 metabolizers*
- Individuals taking any drug that serves as a CYP2C19 inhibitor†
Recent studies have shown that a 10 mg dose of citalopram can be effective in treating depression for some individuals. In such cases, your doctor might prescribe a lower dosage, such as 10 mg or even 5 mg. They may then increase the dosage based on its effectiveness for you.
What if I miss a dose?
If you overlook a dose of citalopram, try to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time. Never take double doses to compensate for a missed dose as it could increase the risk of side effects.
To prevent missing doses, consider using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or timer on your phone, downloading a reminder app, or even using a kitchen timer.
Will I need to use this drug long term? How long can I take citalopram?
Whether you need to use citalopram long term depends on mutual decisions you'll make with your doctor.
In the original clinical trials, individuals didn't use citalopram for longer than up to 32 weeks because the drug was studied for treating depressive episodes. Researchers didn't examine whether long-term use was effective in maintaining a response to a depressive episode or preventing depressive episodes.
However, according to the National Alliance on Mental Health, there aren't known problems associated with taking citalopram long term.
If you and your doctor decide that citalopram oral tablets are safe and effective for you, you may continue using the drug long term. As with any depression treatment, you and your doctor should continue discussing how well citalopram is working for you while you're taking it.
Common questions about citalopram oral tablet
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about citalopram oral tablets.
Is citalopram used for anxiety? If so, what's the dosage and how long does it take to work?
Citalopram oral tablets are not approved for treating anxiety. However, they might be prescribed off-label to treat this condition. Off-label drug use involves using a drug for a purpose other than what it's been approved for by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
If you're interested in using citalopram for anxiety, discuss it with your doctor for more information.
How will citalopram make me feel at first when I take it? Will it make me feel weird?
It's impossible to predict how you'll feel when you first take citalopram oral tablets. If you have questions about how citalopram could make you feel, talk to your doctor.
When you first begin taking citalopram, pay close attention to your mood, actions, thoughts, and behaviors. If you notice any changes, such as feeling like your depression symptoms are worsening, contact your doctor right away. You should also inform your doctor if you notice any unusual changes in your thoughts or behaviors.
If you have a therapist, they may be able to help answer this question as well.
While taking citalopram, keep your doctor informed about how you feel. This will help them determine how effectively citalopram is treating your depression.
Is citalopram a controlled substance or a benzodiazepine?
No, citalopram is not a controlled substance. It's also not a part of the class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which are controlled substances. Citalopram is a type of medication called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.
Controlled substances are medications with the potential to cause either mental or physical dependence. The Drug Enforcement Administration sets guidelines for who can produce, possess, and use these medications.
Is citalopram addictive? Will it make me feel 'high'?
No, citalopram is not addictive. It is not classified as a controlled substance (for more information, see the section above).
Citalopram is not known to produce a feeling of being "high." If you have questions about how citalopram may make you feel, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
What should I know about stopping citalopram? Can I successfully come off of citalopram?
Suddenly stopping citalopram can cause withdrawal symptoms. This is also known as discontinuation syndrome. Symptoms can include:
- apprehension
- unfavorable or unpredictable emotional shifts
- restlessness
- easily agitated or irritable
- experiencing tiredness or lacking in energy
Abruptly discontinuing the use of citalopram "entirely and at once" (with no gradual reduction) is not advisable. With the assistance of your doctor, you can successfully wean off citalopram. They can help establish a plan to decrease the dosage gradually over a period of time.
Alternatives to citalopram oral tablet
Various medications can be employed to address depression. Some may be more suitable for you than others. Should you be interested in exploring alternatives to citalopram oral tablets, consult your doctor. They can provide information on other medications that may work effectively for you.
Note: Some of the drugs listed below are utilized "off-label" to treat depression. Off-label drug use signifies administering a drug for a purpose beyond its approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Potential alternative drugs for treating depression include:
- selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (other than citalopram), such as:
- escitalopram (Lexapro)
- sertraline (Zoloft)
- fluoxetine (Prozac)
- paroxetine (Paxil)
- serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, for example:
- desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
- duloxetine (Cymbalta)
- levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
- venlafaxine (Effexor), venlafaxine ER (Effexor XR)
- benzodiazepines, like alprazolam (Xanax)
- bupropion (Wellbutrin)
- trazodone
- vilazodone (Viibryd)
- vortioxetine (Trintellix)
Citalopram oral tablet and alcohol
You should abstain from consuming alcohol while taking citalopram oral tablets.
Although there is no known interaction between citalopram and alcohol, the manufacturer of the drug advises against combining the two. For some individuals with depression, alcohol consumption may exacerbate the condition's symptoms.
Prior to initiating citalopram, speak with your doctor about your alcohol consumption. They can provide guidance on the amount, if any, that is safe for you to consume while taking this drug.
Citalopram oral tablet interactions
Citalopram can interact with multiple medications and certain supplements, as well as certain foods.
Different interactions can produce varying effects. For example, some interactions can hinder a drug's effectiveness. Other interactions can intensify side effects or make them more severe.
Citalopram and other medications
Below is a list of medications that can interact with citalopram. This list does not contain all drugs that may interact with citalopram.
Prior to taking citalopram, consult your doctor and pharmacist. Provide them with information about all prescription, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take. In addition, inform them about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use. Offering this information can help prevent potential interactions.
If you have questions about drug interactions that could affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Medications you should not take with citalopram include:
- **monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)*, such as selegiline (Emsam), a type of drug that is also used to treat depression
Various medications that impact your central nervous system. Some illustrations are:- Benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax) and clonazepam (Klonopin)- opioid pain medications, like hydrocodone- Barbiturates, for instance, phenobarbital
Additionally, certain medications utilized for tackling depression or anxiety might enhance the likelihood of serotonin syndrome (accumulation of a material named serotonin in the body). Some examples of these medications consist of:- Buspirone- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) other than citalopram, such as sertraline (Zoloft) and fluoxetine (Prozac)- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), for example, venlafaxine (Effexor), venlafaxine ER (Effexor XR), and duloxetine (Cymbalta)
Moreover, medications that enhance the danger for bleeding are:- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)- SSRIs other than citalopram, like sertraline (Zoloft) and fluoxetine (Prozac)- SNRIs, such as venlafaxine (Effexor), venlafaxine ER (Effexor XR), and duloxetine (Cymbalta)
Furthermore, medications utilized for treating migraine are:- Triptans, like sumatriptan (Imitrex)
As well, Carbamazepine (Tegretol) and Lithium (Lithobid) are applicable.
Lastly, CYP2C19 inhibitors. Some examples of these inhibitors are:- Omeprazole (Prilosec)- Clopidogrel (Plavix)
Citalopram oral tablet and herbs and supplements
You must avoid taking St. John’s wort or tryptophan while using citalopram oral tablets, unless your doctor advises otherwise. These supplements, when used with citalopram, may increase the risk for serotonin syndrome (accumulation of a material called serotonin in the body).
It's essential to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using these products alongside citalopram.
Citalopram oral tablet and foods
No particular foods have been reported to interact with citalopram oral tablets. If you have any queries about consuming specific foods with this drug, communicate with your doctor.
Citalopram oral tablet withdrawal and dependence
You shouldn't abruptly stop taking citalopram oral tablets. Doing so may result in withdrawal symptoms, also known as discontinuation syndrome. Symptoms can include:- Anxiety- bad mood or mood changes- feeling restless- feeling irritated (easily upset or frustrated)- feeling fatigued (having a lack of energy) or sluggish
It's not known how long withdrawal symptoms last.
Don't stop taking citalopram “cold turkey” (suddenly and completely). Instead, consult your doctor first if you no longer wish to take citalopram. They can help devise a plan to taper (slowly decrease) your dose over time, which can help prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Citalopram oral tablet uses
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs such as citalopram oral tablets to treat certain conditions. Citalopram oral tablets may also be utilized off-label for other conditions. Off-label drug use means utilizing a drug for a purpose other than what it's been approved for by the FDA.
Citalopram is approved to treat depression in adults.
Citalopram oral tablet for depression
We all feel depressed at some point. It's an emotion that every person experiences.
When it's said that someone “has depression,” what's often being referred to is major depressive disorder (MDD). With MDD, a person has persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. This condition occurs in episodes, which are periods when symptoms last for at least 2 weeks, but often longer.
Other symptoms of depression can include:- feelings of hopelessness or guilt- having little or no energy- physical aches and pains- trouble concentrating
For more information about depression and resources for getting help, visit the Medical News Today mental health hub.
Effectiveness for depression
American Psychological Association guidelines recommend selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, including citalopram, as first-line treatments for chronic or severe MDD in adults. “First-line treatment” refers to a treatment that can be one of the first considered for a condition. This usually means a medication has good evidence showing that it's safe and effective for treating the condition.
Clinical trials also found citalopram to be effective for treating depression in adults. Benefits of taking citalopram included improved scores on scales used to grade how severe depression symptoms are. For full details of how the drug performed in trials, check out citalopram’s prescribing information.
Citalopram oral tablets have gained FDA approval for managing melancholy in grown-ups.
When someone is diagnosed with melancholy, they are most likely grappling with major depressive disorder (MDD). Individuals suffering from MDD experience prolonged feelings of sadness and lack of interest in activities they once found enjoyable. This disorder emerges in episodes, periods marked by the sustained presence of symptoms for at least 2 weeks, often much longer.
The medical community believes that MDD can be attributed to an imbalance in specific brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine.
The exact workings of citalopram are not completely understood. The general belief is that it treats depression by boosting brain and body serotonin levels, thus triggering its mechanism of action.
Like other medications used to treat depression, citalopram oral tablets take time to produce noticeable effects. It can take as long as 2 to 6 weeks before a reduction in depression symptoms becomes apparent.
Consistent adherence to the prescribed citalopram dosage for at least a few weeks is vital to assess the drug's effectiveness in treating depression. Discontinuing the medication prematurely may hinder its efficacy, but this may become necessary if bothersome side effects arise.
Citalopram has a half-life of approximately 35 hours, indicating the time it takes for half of a dose to be eliminated from the body.
Citalopram oral tablets and pregnancy
The safety of using citalopram oral tablets during pregnancy is unclear.
Some studies have suggested that the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as citalopram, in the third trimester may increase the risk of complications at birth. The origin of these problems remains uncertain, with some questioning whether the problems stem from the mother's SSRIs use during pregnancy or if the newborn experiences withdrawal syndrome following birth.
A more recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) attributes the risk of fetal abnormalities (commonly referred to as birth defects) to taking citalopram during pregnancy to be minimal.
Research on individuals with depression who discontinued their antidepressant medication during pregnancy indicates that they are more likely to experience worsening depression symptoms compared to those who continued their treatment.
If pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your physician prior to taking citalopram to review the risks and benefits of using this medication during pregnancy.
Citalopram oral tablets and birth control
The safety of citalopram oral tablets during pregnancy has not been established. If you or your partner are sexually active and could become pregnant, it's advisable to discuss your birth control requirements with your physician while using this medication.
For more information on using citalopram oral tablets during pregnancy, refer to the “Citalopram and pregnancy” section above.
Citalopram oral tablets and breastfeeding
Avoid breastfeeding while taking citalopram.
The drug is known to penetrate human breast milk, leading to reported side effects in breastfed infants, including weight loss and excessive sleepiness.
If breastfeeding or contemplating breastfeeding, engage in a discussion with your doctor. They may suggest an alternative medication for managing your depression or advise you on appropriate breastfeeding methods.
Citalopram oral tablet overdose
Exceeding the recommended dosage of citalopram oral tablets can result in severe side effects.
Abstain from consuming more than the advised dosage of citalopram.
Overdose symptoms
Symptoms of a citalopram overdose may include:
- dizziness
- rapid heartbeat
- nausea and vomiting
- excessive sleepiness
- sweatiness
- tremors
What to do in case of overdose
If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor. Additionally, you can reach out to the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. However, severe overdose symptoms warrant immediate medical attention; call 911 or your local emergency number, or proceed directly to the nearest emergency room.
How to take citalopram oral tablet
Take citalopram in accordance with your physician's instructions.
Citalopram comes in tablet form to be swallowed.
When to take
For the treatment of depression, the usual citalopram dosage is one tablet taken once daily, either in the morning or evening.
To enhance compliance with your medication schedule, employ a medication reminder. This could involve setting an alarm or timer on your phone, utilizing a reminder app, or using a kitchen timer.
Taking citalopram oral tablet with food
Citalopram oral tablets can be taken with or without food.
Can citalopram oral tablet be crushed, split, or chewed?
Citalopram oral tablets can be crushed, split, or chewed.
If you find it difficult to swallow citalopram tablets, communicate with your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to suggest strategies to aid in taking citalopram or recommend a different medication.
Just like with any medication, the expense of citalopram oral pills can fluctuate. The sum you end up paying is influenced by your health insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you choose.
You might be eligible for a 90-day supply of citalopram oral pills, provided your insurance company agrees. This could possibly decrease your pharmacy visits and lower costs by extending the time between refills. If you're interested in this option, you should consult with your doctor or insurance provider.
Before authorizing coverage for citalopram oral pills, your insurance company might require a prior authorization. This means your doctor and insurance provider need to communicate about your prescription before the insurance company will agree to cover the medication. The insurance company will analyze the authorization request and make a decision whether to cover the medication.
In case of uncertainty about the need for prior authorization for citalopram oral pills, you should contact your insurance provider.
Financial and insurance assistance
Monetary aid to help cover citalopram expenses might be available.
Websites such as Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds can provide resources that might help decrease the cost of citalopram. They also offer tools to help you find affordable healthcare, as well as educational materials. For more information, visit these sites.
Mail-order pharmacies
Citalopram oral pills might be available through a mail-order pharmacy. Using this service might help reduce the price of the medication and allow you to receive it without leaving home.
If your doctor recommends it, you might be able to receive a 90-day supply of citalopram oral pills, reducing concerns about running out of medication. If you're interested in this option, you should consult with your doctor and insurance provider. Some Medicare plans might assist with the cost of mail-order medications.
If you don't have insurance, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist about online pharmacy options.
Citalopram oral pill precautions
This medication carries numerous precautions.
FDA warning: Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in young adults
This medication carries a . This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A boxed warning alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be harmful.
Medications used to treat depression, including citalopram, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in people ages 24 years and younger. This is more likely to occur when a person first starts taking the medication and any time the dose is adjusted.
Citalopram hasn’t been studied in people younger than 18 years of age, so children shouldn’t use this drug.
If you notice changes in your thoughts or behaviors while taking citalopram, contact your doctor right away. If you have thoughts of suicide or attempt to harm yourself, seek medical attention immediately.
Narrow-angle glaucoma. Citalopram can lead to your pupils widening. In some individuals, this can result in narrow-angle glaucoma (also called closed-angle glaucoma). People with pre-existing narrow angles in their eyes might be more susceptible. Discuss this with your physician before starting citalopram, as they might suggest an eye examination.
Bipolar depression. Those with bipolar depression who use citalopram may have a higher risk of mania or hypomania. Before starting citalopram, your doctor will likely assess you for bipolar depression. If you're aware of your bipolar depression, make sure your physician is fully informed before you take citalopram. Citalopram is not approved for treating bipolar depression.
Bleeding issues. SSRIs, including citalopram, can increase your risk of bleeding. If you already have a bleeding disorder, like Von Willebrand disease, your risk might be higher. Consult your physician before taking citalopram if you have a known bleeding condition.
Low sodium levels. SSRIs, including citalopram, can cause low sodium levels in the blood. People who take diuretics or are older adults might be at a higher risk. Those with low sodium levels could worsen their condition by taking citalopram. Your doctor can help establish whether citalopram is safe for you if you have low sodium levels.
Long QT syndrome. Taking citalopram may lengthen the QT interval. Individuals with a prolonged QT interval might experience worsening symptoms if they take citalopram. If you have long QT syndrome, your doctor might monitor you more closely while you take citalopram or prescribe an alternative medication (as mentioned in the "Citalopram side effects" section).
Seizures. There seems to be a possibility that citalopram could increase the risk of seizures for those who already have them. Before beginning citalopram, speak with your doctor if you have seizures or have had them in the past.
Allergic reaction. If you've had an allergic reaction to citalopram or any of its components, you shouldn't take citalopram oral tablets. Consult your doctor about alternative medications.
Pregnancy. It's unclear whether citalopram is safe to use during pregnancy. For more information, see the "Citalopram oral tablet and pregnancy" section.
Breastfeeding. You shouldn't breastfeed while taking citalopram. For more information, see the "Citalopram oral tablet and breastfeeding" section.
Citalopram oral tablet expiration, storage, and disposal
When you receive citalopram oral tablets from a pharmacy, the pharmacist will include an expiration date on the bottle label. This date is typically 1 year from the date the medication was dispensed.
The expiration date assures the medication is effective during that period. The FDA advises against using expired medications. If you have unused medication past the expiration date, consult your pharmacist to determine if it might still be usable.
Storage
Medication longevity can depend on various factors, including storage conditions.
Citalopram oral tablets should be stored at a room temperature of 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) in a tightly sealed container away from light. Avoid storing this medication in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms.
Disposal
If you no longer need citalopram oral tablets and have leftover medication, it's essential to dispose of it safely. This helps prevent accidental use by others, including children and pets, and minimizes harm to the environment.
This article provides helpful guidance on medication disposal. You can also ask your pharmacist for information about how to dispose of your medication.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has put in great effort to ensure that all information provided is accurate, comprehensive, and current. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or specific uses.
Anthrax is a type of disease that can be caused by several different strains of the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It primarily affects animals, but it can also infect humans through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated materials. Anthrax can be a serious and potentially fatal illness, and it's important to take steps to prevent exposure if you're at risk. If you do come into contact with anthrax, seek medical attention immediately. While citalopram is not used to treat anthrax, it is a prescription medication used to treat depression, and the discussion of the medication was included in the provided text.
