Akarin (other name Celexa)

Citalopram: Comprehensive Medication Guide

What is Citalopram and What is it Used For?

Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. It is primarily used in the treatment of:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder)

It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain, which helps to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Citalopram may also be prescribed off-label for other conditions, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and diabetic neuropathy. Purchase Citalopram online for effective depression and anxiety treatment.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They must be informed about pre-existing conditions to ensure safe Citalopram use.

• bipolar disorder or a family history of bipolar disorder
• diabetes
• heart disease
• kidney or liver disease
• receiving electroconvulsive therapy
• seizures (convulsions)
• suicidal thoughts or a previous suicide attempt
• an unusual or allergic reaction to citalopram, escitalopram, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to become pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is less than four hours to your next dose, take only that dose and skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• certain diet drugs like dexfenfluramine, fenfluramine, phentermine, sibutramine
• cisapride
• escitalopram
• MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
• nefazodone
• phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine
• pimozide
• procarbazine
• St. John's Wort
• tryptophan
• venlafaxine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• amphetamine or dextroamphetamine
• aspirin and aspirin-like drugs
• carbamazepine
• cimetidine
• linezolid
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
• medicines for migraine headache like almotriptan, eletriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, zolmitriptan
• medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin, enoxaparin, and dalteparin
• medicines that treat HIV infection or AIDS
• metoprolol
• NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Continue to take your medicine even if you do not feel better right away. It can take about 4 weeks before you feel the full effect of this medicine.

Patients and their families should watch out for depression or thoughts of suicide that get worse. Also watch out for sudden or severe changes in feelings such as feeling anxious, agitated, panicky, irritable, hostile, aggressive, impulsive, severely restless, overly excited and hyperactive, or not being able to sleep. If this happens, especially at the beginning of antidepressant treatment or after a change in dose, call your health care professional.

If you have been taking this medicine regularly for some time, do not suddenly stop taking it. You must gradually reduce the dose, or your symptoms may get worse. Ask your doctor or health care professional for advice.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or allergies without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients can increase possible side effects.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water will help.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• confusion
• dizziness or light headedness
• fast talking and excited feelings or actions that are out of control
• hallucination, loss of contact with reality
• seizures
• suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
• unusual bleeding or bruising

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• blurred vision
• change in appetite
• change in sex drive or performance
• headache
• increased sweating
• nausea
• trouble sleeping

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Additional Information and Considerations

Dosage and Administration

The typical starting dose of Citalopram for adults is 20 mg per day, which may be increased to a maximum of 40 mg per day depending on individual response and tolerability. Dosage adjustments should only be made under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It's important to adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage regimen for optimal therapeutic benefits and to minimize the risk of adverse effects. Find the correct Citalopram dosage for your condition.

Onset of Action

It's crucial to understand that Citalopram, like many antidepressants, does not provide immediate relief. The therapeutic effects of the medication usually begin to manifest within 1 to 4 weeks of consistent use. During this initial period, patients may experience some side effects before noticing any significant improvement in their mood or anxiety levels. Patience and adherence to the prescribed treatment plan are key during this time.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The use of Citalopram during pregnancy should be carefully considered, as it may pose risks to the developing fetus. Neonates exposed to SSRIs like Citalopram in the third trimester may experience withdrawal symptoms after birth. Additionally, Citalopram is excreted in breast milk, and its effects on the nursing infant are not fully known. Therefore, a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider is essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of using Citalopram during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discuss Citalopram use during pregnancy with your doctor.

Discontinuation Syndrome

Abruptly stopping Citalopram can lead to a withdrawal syndrome, also known as discontinuation syndrome. Symptoms may include dizziness, headache, nausea, flu-like symptoms, insomnia, anxiety, and sensory disturbances. To minimize the risk of these symptoms, it's crucial to gradually taper the dose of Citalopram under the guidance of a healthcare professional. A slow and controlled reduction in dosage allows the brain to adjust to the decreasing levels of serotonin. Learn how to safely discontinue Citalopram.

Geriatric Use

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Citalopram and may require lower doses. The risk of side effects, such as falls and hyponatremia (low sodium levels), may be increased in elderly patients. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to ensure safe and effective use of Citalopram in this population. Discuss appropriate Citalopram dosages for seniors.

Citalopram: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I drink alcohol while taking Citalopram?
  It's generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Citalopram, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness, and may worsen depression.
• What should I do if I experience side effects?
  If you experience any bothersome or persistent side effects, consult your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your dose or recommend strategies to manage the side effects.
• How long does it take for Citalopram to work?
  It may take 1 to 4 weeks to notice the full effects of Citalopram. Be patient and continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you don't feel better right away.
• Can I take Citalopram with other medications?
  Citalopram can interact with various medications, so it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, herbs, and supplements you are taking.
• Is Citalopram addictive?
  Citalopram is not considered addictive, but abruptly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms. It's important to gradually taper the dose under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Where to Buy Citalopram Online

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