Citalopram is an antidepressant medication that is used to treat depression and anxiety. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. It is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for depression and anxiety, and it is generally well-tolerated.
Active Ingredients and Synonyms
The active ingredient in citalopram is citalopram hydrobromide, which is also known as citalopram HBr. Other synonyms for citalopram include citalopram hydrochloride, citalopram hydrochloride monohydrate, and citalopram hydrochloride dihydrate.
Uses
Citalopram is used to treat depression and anxiety. It is also sometimes used to treat other conditions, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and panic disorder.
Advantages
There are several advantages to using citalopram. It is generally well-tolerated, and it is not as sedating as some other antidepressants. It also has fewer side effects than some other medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants.
It can also be used in combination with other medications, such as antipsychotics, to treat more severe cases of depression and anxiety.
Dosage
The recommended starting dose of citalopram is 20 mg once daily. The dose can be increased to 40 mg once daily as needed. It should be taken with food and should be taken at the same time each day.
It can take several weeks for the full effects of citalopram to be felt, so it is important to be patient and stick with the prescribed dose.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of citalopram include nausea, headache, insomnia, drowsiness, dry mouth, and sexual dysfunction. These side effects are usually mild and will usually go away after a few weeks.
More serious side effects are rare, but they can include an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. If you experience any of these side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Citalopram is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that is used to treat depression and anxiety. It is generally well-tolerated and has fewer side effects than some other medications. It should be taken as prescribed and can take several weeks for the full effects to be felt. If you experience any serious side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately.