IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not
substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or
other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use
of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare
professional before using this drug.
CITALOPRAM - ORAL (sye-TAL-oh-pram)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Celexa
USES: Citalopram is used to treat depression. This medication works by
helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.
OTHER USES: This medication has also been used to treat certain eating
disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication 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
this medication as prescribed even if you feel well. Also, do not stop taking
this medication without consulting your doctor. It may take up to several weeks
before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.
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.
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. This drug
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. This medication should be used only
when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor. This drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the
infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your
doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Certain medications taken with this product 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 this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for
additional information. This drug 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.
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.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or
medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it 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 the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and
30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.