Your safety is our first priority. Learn more about key medication details, side effects, and other important information about your treatment.

Important Safety Information

Citalopram is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain.

Citalopram should only be taken under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Do Not Take Citalopram If You:

• Are allergic to citalopram or any of its ingredients
• Are currently taking or have recently taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Are taking pimozide, due to the risk of serious heart rhythm problems
• Have congenital long QT syndrome or known heart rhythm disturbances

Warnings and Precautions:

• Citalopram may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Monitor for changes in mood, behavior, or thoughts of self-harm.
• May cause QT prolongation, a potentially life-threatening heart rhythm condition. Your doctor may monitor your heart activity (ECG) and electrolytes.
• Do not abruptly stop taking citalopram, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, irritability, nausea, and insomnia.
• Use caution if you have liver disease, seizures, low sodium levels, or a history of bipolar disorder.

Possible Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Suicidal thoughts or behavior
• Seizures
• Irregular heartbeat or fainting
• Serotonin syndrome (symptoms include agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle stiffness, and tremors)
• Severe allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing

Common Side Effects May Include:

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Sleepiness or insomnia
• Increased sweating
• Fatigue
• Sexual dysfunction

Before Taking Citalopram, Tell Your Healthcare Provider If You:

• Have heart problems, especially related to heart rhythm (e.g., QT prolongation)
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have or have had seizures
• Have bipolar disorder or a history of mania
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

Tell your provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you take, including:

• Other antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs)
• NSAIDs or blood thinners
• Drugs that affect heart rhythm
• St. John’s Wort or tryptophan

Administration & Storage:

• Take exactly as prescribed, once daily with or without food.
• Do not stop or change your dose without your provider’s guidance.
• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

If you experience any side effects or have concerns about your medication, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Never stop citalopram suddenly without medical advice.