The
following information is a summary about
Citalopram.
It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Citalopram USES
Citalopram (Celexa) is used to treat depression. Citalopram
works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural
chemicals in the brain. Citalopram has also been used to
treat certain eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa,
bulimia).
Citalopram DIRECTIONS
Take Citalopram by mouth usually once daily, with or without
food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based
on your medical condition and response to therapy. It is
important to continue taking Citalopram as prescribed even
if you feel well. Also, do not stop taking Citalopram without
consulting your doctor. It may take up to several weeks
before the full benefit of Citalopram takes effect.
Citalopram SIDE EFFECTS
Nausea, drowsiness, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, upset stomach,
or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist
or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these serious side effects occur:
vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual or severe mental/mood
changes, increased sweating/flushing, unusual fatigue,
uncontrolled movements (tremor). Tell your doctor immediately
if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:
blurred vision, stomach pain, fever, joint pain, muscle
pain, unusually fast heartbeat, decreased interest in sex,
changes in sexual ability, change in amount of urine. Tell
your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikelybut
very serious side effects occur: weight changes, taste
changes, changes in menstrual period, unusual swelling
of the hands/feet/face, seizures, painful and/or prolonged
erection. If you notice other effects not listed above,
contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Citalopram PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver
problems, kidney problems, seizures, heart problems, other
mental/mood disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder), thyroid
problems, any allergies. Citalopram may make you dizzy
or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring
alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic
beverages. Caution is advised when using this product in
the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects
of the drug. Citalopram should be used only when clearly
needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits
with your doctor. Citalopram passes into breast milk. Because
of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while
using Citalopram is not recommended. Consult your doctor
before breast-feeding.
Citalopram DRUG INTERACTIONS
Certain medications taken with Citalopram could result
in serious, even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid taking
MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, isocarboxazid, linezolid,
moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
within 2 weeks before or after treatment with Citalopram.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.
Citalopram is not recommended for use with: weight loss
drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine). Ask your doctor
or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor of all
prescription and nonprescription medication you may use,
especially: other SSRI antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine,
sertraline), nefazodone, trazodone, tramadol, venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine
drugs (e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan), tricyclic antidepressants
(e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline), cimetidine, lithium,
itraconazole, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin,
erythromycin), any herbal/ natural products (e.g., melatonin,
St John's wort, ayahuasca). Tell your doctor if you take
any drugs that cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep,
sedatives, tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam),
narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines
(e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), anti-seizure
drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, certain
antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Do not start or
stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Citalopram OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose
may include: irregular heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness
or lightheadedness.
Citalopram NOTES
Do not share Citalopram with others. Inform all your doctors
you use (or have used) Citalopram.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, use Citalopram as soon as you remember.
If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed
dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the
dose to catch up.
Citalopram STORAGE
Store Citalopram at room temperature between 36 and 77
degrees F (2 -25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
