Citalopram important information

Citalopram is a prescription medication classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is commonly prescribed to treat major depressive disorder (depression) and may be used for other conditions as determined by a licensed healthcare provider. As with all prescription medications, citalopram may not be appropriate for everyone. For full prescribing information, view the drug label information.

Before using citalopram, what should I tell my doctor?

All medical conditions you have or have had, especially:

• • Bipolar disorder or a history of mania/hypomania
  • Seizures or epilepsy
  • Liver disease (citalopram is processed by the liver; dose adjustments may be needed)
  • Heart rhythm problems, including long QT syndrome, prior fainting, or known arrhythmias
  • Low potassium or low magnesium (electrolyte abnormalities can increase arrhythmia risk)
  • Low sodium (hyponatremia), especially in older adults or if you take diuretics (“water pills”)
  • Bleeding problems or easy bruising
  • Glaucoma, especially narrow-angle glaucoma
• All medications you are currently taking or plan to take, including:
• • Prescription medications
  • Vitamins, supplements, and herbal products (especially St. John’s wort)
  • Other medications that increase serotonin (risk of serotonin syndrome)
  • Blood thinners or medications that increase bleeding risk (e.g., warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs like ibuprofen/naproxen)
  • Medications that can affect heart rhythm (QT-prolonging drugs)
• Any allergies or prior adverse reactions to citalopram, escitalopram, or other SSRIs
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding status
• • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
• Any history of suicidal thoughts, self-harm, worsening depression, severe anxiety/agitation, or significant mood changes.
• Alcohol or recreational drug use

What are some of the side effects of this drug?

Some side effects are common and often mild, especially when starting citalopram or changing the dose. These may include:

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia) or sleepiness
• Increased sweating
• Tremor or feeling jittery/restless
• Sexual side effects (e.g., decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, difficulty achieving orgasm)
• Appetite or weight changes

Many side effects improve as your body adjusts. If side effects persist, become severe, or interfere with daily functioning, contact your healthcare provider.

What are side effects I should call my doctor about right away?

Seek urgent medical attention or contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience:

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or new/worsening depression
• New or worsening anxiety, agitation, panic, irritability, aggression, or impulsivity
• Mania/hypomania symptoms, such as:
• • Unusually elevated or irritable mood
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Racing thoughts, risky behavior, or unusually increased activity/talking
• Severe allergic reactions, such as:
• • Rash or hives
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Abnormal bleeding or bruising, black/tarry stools, coughing/vomiting blood
• Severe headache, vision changes, or eye pain
• Severe dizziness or fainting, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat
• Symptoms of low sodium, such as headache, confusion, weakness, severe fatigue, unsteadiness, or seizures
• Serotonin syndrome symptoms, such as:

• • Fever, sweating, shivering
  • Confusion, agitation
  • Rapid heart rate, blood pressure changes
  • Muscle stiffness, twitching, tremor, loss of coordination
  • Diarrhea

• Heart rhythm symptoms, such as:
• • Fainting
  • Severe dizziness
  • Palpitations or a racing/irregular heartbeat

These symptoms may indicate serious or life-threatening reactions and require prompt evaluation.

Important safety information

• Suicidality risk: Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults, particularly early in treatment or after dose changes. Monitoring is important.
• Heart rhythm (QT prolongation): Citalopram is associated with dose-dependent QT prolongation, which can lead to serious arrhythmias in susceptible individuals. Your provider may avoid higher doses or recommend monitoring if you have risk factors.
• Electrolytes matter: Low potassium or magnesium can increase arrhythmia risk. Tell your provider if you have vomiting/diarrhea, dehydration, or take diuretics.
• Do not stop abruptly: Stopping citalopram suddenly may cause discontinuation symptoms (e.g., dizziness, nausea, irritability, insomnia, “electric shock” sensations). Tapering should be supervised by a clinician.
• Drug interactions: Citalopram can interact with other medications and supplements, including those that affect serotonin or prolong the QT interval.
• Alcohol and impairment: Alcohol may worsen side effects. Use caution with driving or hazardous activities until you know how citalopram affects you.

Do not take citalopram if you

• Are allergic to citalopram or any ingredient in the medication
• Are taking (or have taken within the last 14 days) a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Are taking linezolid or intravenous methylene blue, unless specifically directed and monitored by a clinician (risk of serotonin syndrome)
• Are taking pimozide (risk of serious heart rhythm problems)
• Have been told by a licensed healthcare professional that you should not take SSRIs

Important Notice


 This content is for general informational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your licensed healthcare provider. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.