Citalopram
Generic Name: Citalopram
Uses & Medical Indications
Treat depression
Major depressive disorder
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Citalopram works at the cellular level to correct underlying biochemical imbalances, reduce clinical symptoms, and support overall health.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Citalopram exerts targeted therapeutic activity by interacting with specific cellular receptors, enzymatic pathways, or biological signaling cascades to relieve symptoms and restore physiological balance.
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
20-40 mg daily
Safety not established
Max 20 mg daily
40 mg/day
N/A
Max 20 mg daily
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Nausea, dry mouth, insomnia
QT prolongation, serotonin syndrome
Use with MAOIs or Pimozide
Suicidal ideation in young adults
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
MAOIs, other serotonergic drugs
N/A
Avoid
Identified Clinical Drug Interactions for Citalopram:
Additive QT Interval Prolongation & Torsades de Pointes
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Use if benefit outweighs risk
Use caution
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
May take weeks to see full effect
Take as soon as remembered
Mood changes, ECG if at risk
Related Medicines in SSRI
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.
Content for Citalopram was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.