Citalopram, dosage, side effects

Citalopram, dosage, side effects:

Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mood-related conditions. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Key Information

1. Uses

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Primary treatment for depression.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Reduces anxiety symptoms.
Panic Disorder: Manages panic attacks.
Off-Label Uses: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and social anxiety disorder.

2. Mechanism of Action

SSRI: Inhibits serotonin reuptake, increasing serotonin availability in the brain.
Mood Regulation: Improves mood, reduces anxiety, and stabilizes emotions.

3. Dosage

Adults: Typically starts at 20 mg once daily, may increase to 40 mg (max dose).
Elderly/Impaired Liver Function: Maximum dose is 20 mg/day.
Duration: Takes 4–6 weeks for full effect.

4. Side Effects

Common: Nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, insomnia, sweating, fatigue.
Serious: QT prolongation (heart rhythm issue), serotonin syndrome, suicidal thoughts (especially in young adults), and hyponatremia (low sodium).

5. Contraindications

Conditions: QT prolongation, heart rhythm disorders, or taking other QT-prolonging drugs.
Medications: MAO inhibitors (risk of serotonin syndrome).

6. Precautions

Suicidal Thoughts: Monitor closely, especially in young adults.
Pregnancy/Lactation: Use only if benefits outweigh risks (potential harm to fetus/infant).
Elderly: Higher risk of hyponatremia and QT prolongation.

7. Interactions

Drugs: MAO inhibitors, other SSRIs, tramadol, blood thinners, and QT-prolonging drugs.
Alcohol: Avoid (increases drowsiness and side effects).

8. Withdrawal

Tapering: Abrupt stoppage can cause withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, irritability, and flu-like symptoms.

Brand Names

Citalopram is sold under various brand names worldwide. Some of the most common include:

Celexa (most widely recognized brand name in the U.S. and Canada)
Cipramil (common in Europe, Australia, and other regions)
Cital
Citopam
Celapram
Cilentra
Citabax
Citalo
Citalec
Recital

Generic Availability

Citalopram is widely available as a generic medication, which is more affordable than brand-name versions.

Clinical Considerations

Monitoring: Regular follow-ups to assess efficacy and side effects.
Patient Education: Take at the same time daily; do not stop abruptly.

Conclusion

Citalopram is an effective SSRI for depression and anxiety but requires careful monitoring for side effects like QT prolongation and serotonin syndrome. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.