CITALOPRAM (CelexaŽ) is an antidepressant used for treating depression. It works by restoring the balance of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain, which helps to improve certain mood problems
Citalopram is used to treat depression. However, it may also be used for other purposes (this is determined by your doctor). It acts by restoring the brain's chemical balance (increases the supply of serotonin, which helps to improve mood).
What should you tell your doctor before taking citalopram:
if you are allergic to citalopram, any other medicines, dyes, foods, or preservatives
if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
If you are breast-feeding a baby
if you have suicidal tendencies or have attempted suicide, liver or kidney disease, stomach bleeding, seizures, or mania
How to use citalopram:
Strictly follow the instructions given by your doctor and medication guide. It may either be taken with or without food. You may notice improvments in 1 to 4 weeks. Continue taking citalopram until your doctor say it's enough.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss the dose, take it as soon as possible. Be careful not to take the double dose.
If only one dose was missed, you can take the rest of your scheduled doses for the day at evenly spaced intervals.
What drug(s) amy interfere with citalopram?
anorexiants (eg, phentermine), linezolid, lithium, or sumatriptan
Fenfluramine and derivatives, MAO inhibitors (eg, phenelzine), selegiline, sibturamine, St. John's wort and tramadol
Important safety information:
Citalopram may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Citalopram. Using Citalopram alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or perform other potentially dangerous tasks.
Possible side effects:
If you experience these side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately:
seizures
severe allergic reactions (eg, rash, hives, swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue; difficulty breathing,tightness in the chest)
cold sweat
confusion
fatigue
hositlity
dizziness
anxiety
impulsiveness
irritability
mental/mood changes
shakiness
sleeplessness
suicidal thoughts or behavior
vision changes
worsening of depression
sore throat or fever
lack of concern
These side effects usually don't require medical attention (but you should contact your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
upset stomach
decreased menstrual flow or painful periods
diarrhea
sinus inflammation
loss of appetite
increased sweating
impotence
ejaculation disorder
dry mouth
nausea
runny nose
tiredness
tremor
weight loss or gain
What is the shelf life of the pills?
The expiry date is mentioned on each blister. It is different for different batches. The shelf life is 2 years from the date of manufacture and would differ from batch to batch depending on when they were manufactured.
What is a generic pill?
Generic drug (pl. generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without a brand name. A generic must contain the same active ingredients as the original formulation. In most cases, it is considered bioequivalent to the brand name counterpart with respect to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties.
