Citalopram Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Warnings, Precautions and Overdose

Fri-May-2023
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Citalopram Oral: Uses

Citalopram (Celexa) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. It is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Citalopram Oral: Side Effects

The most common side effects of citalopram are mild and go away on their own within a few weeks of starting treatment. These side effects can include:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Dry mouth
  • Insomnia
  • Drowsiness
  • Anxiety
  • Headache

Other side effects of citalopram can be more serious, but they are less common. These side effects can include:

  • Serotonin syndrome (a serious condition that can occur when too much serotonin builds up in the body)
  • Mania
  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Seizures
  • Bleeding problems
  • Liver problems

Citalopram Oral: Interactions

Citalopram can interact with a number of other medications, including:

  • Other antidepressants
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Blood thinners
  • Antipsychotic medications
  • Lithium
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • St. John’s wort

Citalopram Oral: Warnings

Citalopram should be used with caution in people with the following conditions:

  • Bipolar disorder
  • Epilepsy
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Heart disease
  • Glaucoma
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Citalopram Oral: Precautions

  • Do not take citalopram if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). You must wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAOI before starting citalopram.
  • Citalopram can increase your risk of bleeding, especially if you are taking other medications that also increase your risk of bleeding.
  • Citalopram can cause drowsiness. Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how citalopram affects you.
  • Citalopram can increase your risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially when you first start taking it or when your dose is changed. Tell your doctor right away if you have any thoughts of hurting yourself.

Citalopram Oral: Overdose

An overdose of citalopram can cause a number of serious side effects, including:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Seizures
  • Coma

If you or someone you know has overdosed on citalopram, seek medical attention immediately.

General Information

It is important to take citalopram exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking citalopram suddenly without talking to your doctor, as this can cause serious side effects.