Citalopram (generic for Celexa®)

Citalopram is the generic equivalent of Celexa®.

By law, a generic drug must be the same as its brand name counterpart in terms of active ingredient, dosage, safety, effectiveness, strength, stability, and quality. A generic may, however, differ in its inactive ingredients (i.e. flavoring, fillers, and preservatives).

Citalopram (Celexa®) can does come with serious warnings. These include:

• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions*

• Serotonin syndrome—a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there’s too much serotonin in the brain

• Severe bleeding

• Low sodium levels in the blood

• Seizures

If any of the above concern you, speak with your doctor or pharmacist about your perceived risk and other treatment options that exist.

*A boxed warning is the most serious type of medication warning assigned by the FDA.

Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI. It works by blocking the brain’s quick absorption of serotonin, a “feed good” chemical in your brain. The end result? An increased level of serotonin in your brain, which is thought to improve mood.

The most common side effects of citalopram include:

• Nausea

• Sleepiness drowsiness

• Trouble sleeping

• Dizziness, weakness

• Feelings of anxiety

• Sexual problems, like decreased libido or premature ejaculation

• Sweating

• Shakiness

• Diminished appetite

• Dry mouth, constipation

• Diarrhea

• Respiratory infections

Side effects may improve over time as your body adjusts to the medicine. This list doesn’t represent all possible side effects of citalopram. If you’re experiencing any ongoing, bothersome side effect(s), tell your healthcare provider right away.

If you’d like to learn more, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also has a helpful medication guide for citalopram here.

Citalopram is FDA approved for the treatment of:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD) or depression

Citalopram can interact with some medicines or supplements. It’s always recommended to give both your doctor and pharmacist an updated list of the medicines or supplements you’re taking, so drug interactions can be identified. If you’re unsure whether a certain drug or supplement can be taken with citalopram, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. The FDA also has a helpful medication guide for citalopram here.

If you accidentally miss your dose of citalopram, take the dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose (within 2 hours), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Don’t take two doses of citalopram at the same time.

Citalopram may be taken with or without food.

During pregnancy: SSRIs, like citalopram, are generally considered to be safer options during pregnancy. Studies haven’t shown a link between citalopram and major birth defects, but risks may still exist.

While breastfeeding: Small amounts of citalopram can enter breast milk and there have been reports of sleepiness and poor feeding in nursing infants.

Always let your provider know if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, so you can discuss the risks and benefits of starting or continuing citalopram.

It’s recommended to avoid or limit the use of alcohol when taking escitalopram. Alcohol can intensify the side effects of escitalopram, including dizziness and sleepiness.