Typical Generic Name(s): Citalopram
(oral) (sih TAL oh pram)
Typical Brand Name(s): Celexa
What Is It Used For?
Celexa® (citalopram) is used to treat depression by helping
to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
How Is It Used?
Take this medication by mouth usually once daily, with or without
food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your
medical condition and response to therapy. It is important to
continue taking this medication as prescribed even if you feel
well. Also, do not stop taking this medication without consulting
your doctor. It may take up to several weeks before the full benefit
of this drug takes effect.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Nausea, drowsiness, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, upset stomach,
or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen,
notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any
of these serious side effects occur: vomiting, loss of appetite,
unusual or severe mental/mood changes, increased sweating/flushing,
unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor). Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects
occur: blurred vision, stomach pain, fever, joint pain, muscle
pain, unusually fast heartbeat, decreased interest in sex, changes
in sexual ability, change in amount of urine. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these highly unlikelybut very serious side
effects occur: weight changes, taste changes, changes in menstrual
period, unusual swelling of the hands/feet/face, seizures, painful
and/or prolonged erection. If you notice other effects not listed
above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Is It Safe?
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems,
kidney problems, seizures, heart problems, other mental/mood disorders
(e.g., bipolar disorder), thyroid problems, any allergies. This
drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities
requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit
alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this product
in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects
of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly
needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor. This drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential
risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not
recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Certain medications taken with this product could result in serious,
even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (e.g.,
furazolidone, isocarboxazid, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine,
procarbazine, selegiline, tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks before
or after treatment with this medication. Consult your doctor or
pharmacist for additional information. This drug is not recommended
for use with: weight loss drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine).
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor
of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use,
especially: other SSRI antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline),
nefazodone, trazodone, tramadol, venlafaxine, "triptan"
migraine drugs (e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan), tricyclic antidepressants
(e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline), cimetidine, lithium, itraconazole,
macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), any
herbal/ natural products (e.g., melatonin, St John's wort, ayahuasca).
Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness such
as: medicine for sleep, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti- anxiety
drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine),
psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine),
anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, certain
antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Do not start or stop any
medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
What If I Miss A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is
almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed
dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose
of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
How Should It Be Stored?
Store it at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Celexa is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake
inhibitors. Celexa affects chemicals in the brain that may become
unbalanced and cause depression. Celexa is used to treat depression.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
