Citalopram Information

Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). The acting mechanism of this drug leads to the balance of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain, for some mood problems betterment.

Strictly follow the instructions of your doctor. Read the leaflet.

It may take 1 to 4 weeks before you notice betterment.

Citalopram Safety Information

In case of missing a dose of Citalopram, take it as soon as you remember to do so. However, if it's about time to take your next dose, skip the missed one and follow your regular schedule. Thus take the next dose when it's time for it. Never take a double dose at once. Do not exceed the dosage.

Keep Citalopram safe from heat, moisture, and light. Store this product at room temperature, in scope of 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Keep this product out of the reach of children. Keep safe from pets.

You should not be treating with this preparation if you have an allergy to any component in Citalopram; if you take or have taken St. John's wort, or monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (e.g., phenelzine), selegiline within the last 2 weeks. Do not take this medicine simultaneously with esCitalopram therapy. Do not take Citalopram also if you use a fenfluramine derivative (e.g., dexfenfluramine), nefazodone, pimozide, sibutramine, or an H1 antagonist (e.g., astemizole, terfenadine.

Consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Do not start any therapy without having consulted with a health care provider.

Citalopram Side Effects

This medication may cause sleepiness or staggers. Do not drive, operate machinery or perform any activities, requiring high level of attention, before you find out your reaction to Citalopram. These side effects may be increased by alcohol or some medicines use. Avoid alcohol drinks while treating with this preparation. Make sure you consult with your health care provider before using any other medications, which may lead to drowsiness.

This medicine may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. However, depression and some mental problems may also lead to this risk. The patients going thru the Citalopram therapy have to be monitored closely. Inform your health care provider immediately in case you notice any unusual change in mood or behaviour; restless or irritable behaviour depressed mood; panic attacks, or suicidal thoughts.

Do not combine Citalopram with EsCitalopram therapy. These medications have the same active component.

Citalopram may rarely lead to a prolonged, painful erection. Check with your health care provider immediately if this happens. Otherwise it may cause some serious problems. This condition has to be treated.

Inform your health care provider in case any of these most common side effects bother you too much, or if they are continuous: staggers; drowsiness; dry mouth; increased sweating; reduced sexual performance; diarrhea; light-headedness when you stand or sit up; appetite loss; nausea; weakness; stuffy nose.

Check with a doctor as soon as possible if you notice the signs of any side effects.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur: suicidal thoughts or attempts; tremor; unusual bruising or bleeding; absent menstrual period; black or bloody stools; fast or irregular heartbeat; hallucinations; memory loss; blistered, red, swollen, or peeling skin; seizures; decreased concentration; bizarre behaviour; worsening depression; pain in chest; unusual or severe mental or mood changes; confusion; new or worsening agitation, exaggerated feeling of well-being, panic attacks ,irritability, aggressiveness, impulsiveness, hostility, restlessness, or inability to sit still; persistent, painful erection; severe or persistent anxiety or trouble sleeping; stomach pain; vision changes.

Consult the doctor immediately if you develop allergic reaction (rash; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; hives or itching).

Do not share Citalopram with people, for whom it has not been prescribed.