Citalopram is used to treat depression.
It can also be used to treat anxiety disorders such as panic disorder, social anxiety disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Take Citalopram exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Citalopram is available as a tablet or oral drops.
If you are taking the oral drops, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the dropper provided to take the prescribed dose.
Citalopram must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking Citalopram even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed otherwise, as stopping it suddenly could worsen your condition.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have any heart disease such as heart rhythm disorder as Citalopram may not be suitable for you.
Do not take Citalopram if you are currently taking a certain type of medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as selegiline, or within 14 days of stopping the MAOI. Do not take Citalopram if you are taking linezolid (antibiotic) or pimozide (medicine for uncontrolled movements).
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- mood disorders including bipolar disorder (mania and hypomania)
- diabetes
- epilepsy (fits)
- liver or kidney disease
- a history of bleeding disorders
- having thoughts of self-harm
- glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Alert your doctor if you have recently undergone electroshock therapy (also known as electroconvulsive therapy or ECT).
Citalopram is not meant for children and teenagers younger than 18 years old unless instructed by the doctor.
Medicines for depression such as Citalopram may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour. As depression and some psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with an increased risk of suicide, it is important for you or your family members to monitor your condition especially at the start of treatment and if your dosage is still being adjusted. If you experience new or sudden changes in mood, behaviour, thoughts or feelings or a worsening of your depression with suicidal thoughts or attempts, harm to self or harm to others, contact your doctor immediately.
Individuals who are poor metaboliser of CYP2C19 may experience enhanced effects or side effects of this medicine. Your doctor may advise you to take genetic testing to check if this medicine is best suited for you. If you know you have this gene type, inform your doctor.
Citalopram may cause drowsiness, dizziness or blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly
Other side effects include any of the following: nausea, dry mouth, indigestion, diarrhoea, difficulty sleeping, tiredness and sweating.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- unusual bruising or nosebleed
- unexplained bone pain, swelling
- very fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat
- difficulty in breathing
- hallucinations, delirium
- changes in sex drive
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Citalopram if you are currently taking a certain type of medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as selegiline, or within 14 days of stopping the MAOI. Do not take Citalopram if you are taking linezolid (antibiotic) or pimozide (medicine for uncontrolled movements).
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other medicines for depression e.g. desipramine, clomipramine
- blood-thinning medicines e.g. warfarin, clopidogrel, dipyridamole
- medicines for pain and inflammation (NSAID) e.g. ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen
- medicines to treat mood disorder e.g. chlorpromazine, haloperidol
- St John's wort (herbal supplement)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Citalopram.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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