Have you or someone you know been prescribed Citalopram by a doctor for depression? If so, it is very important to be properly informed about this medication. Because like any medication, to get the most out of it, you need to know exactly how to use it and what precautions to take. Let's talk about this simply and honestly today.
What is this Citalopram?
Citalopram is a medication used to treat depression . Specifically, it belongs to a class of drugs called ``SSRI'' (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors).
Think about it, our brain has various chemicals (neurotransmitters) that control our thoughts, feelings, happiness, and sadness. Serotonin is one such chemical that helps keep our mood in a good state. This serotonin level in the brain of a person with depression can be low. Citalopram, simply put, increases the level of serotonin in the brain and helps improve your mood.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
Before your doctor prescribes Citalopram, it is important to be fully informed about your health history. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions listed below.
| Your condition or habit | Description |
|---|---|
| Mental health problems | You or someone in your family has bipolar disorder , or a history of suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempts. |
| Heart disease | A history of any type of heart disease or irregular heartbeat. |
| Other medical conditions | Kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid disease, glaucoma, seizures. |
| Blood related problems | Taking blood thinners, bleeding disorders, low potassium or magnesium levels in the blood. |
| Allergies | Having an allergy to Citalopram, Escitalopram or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Special occasions | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
To get the most out of the medicine, it is very important to use it correctly.
- Take this pill with a glass of water. It doesn't matter whether you take it before or after a meal.
- Make it a habit to take your medicine at the same time every day . This will help keep the levels of the medicine in your body consistent.
- Do not take more than the dosage prescribed by your doctor.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
Very important: Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so may cause your symptoms to get worse or you may experience withdrawal symptoms. If you do stop, do so as directed by your doctor, gradually reducing the dose.
What if I accidentally take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, take immediate action. If possible, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Otherwise, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What other medications can interact with Citalopram?
Citalopram is a drug that can interact with other medications. Therefore, you should inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, whether prescribed by a doctor, purchased from a pharmacy, traditional medicine, or vitamins.
| Never take Citalopram with these | |
|---|---|
| MAOIs (e.g. Carbex, Marplan) | Pimozide |
| Thioridazine | Linezolid |
| Escitalopram (this is a drug similar to Citalopram) | Methylene blue (intravenous) |
| Be especially careful if you take these. | |
| Aspirin and NSAIDs (painkillers - e.g. Ibuprofen, Naproxen) | Other medications that prevent blood clotting (e.g. Warfarin) |
| Other antidepressants and medications for mental illness | Some migraine medications (Triptans) |
| Alcohol | Strong painkillers like Tramadol and Fentanyl |
| Herbal products such as St. John's wort | Other medications that affect the heart rate (prolong the QT interval) |
Possible side effects while taking the medicine
Like any medication, Citalopram can cause side effects. Some of these are serious, while others are common. The important thing is to be aware of these and take action if you see any warning signs.
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. | |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Changes in thoughts | Suicidal thoughts, thoughts of harming yourself, increased depression. |
| Serotonin Syndrome | Restlessness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, muscle stiffness or twitching, excessive sweating, fever, vomiting, diarrhea. |
| Abnormal bleeding | Stools turning black like tar, urine turning dark brown/red, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, and small red/purple spots on the skin. |
| Heart problems | Fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| If these persist or become bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Dry mouth | Excessive sweating |
| Nausea, stomach upset | Diarrhea |
| Changes in sexual desire or function | Tremors |
Take-Home Message
- Citalopram is a medication that treats depression and controls serotonin levels in the brain.
- It may take several weeks to see the full effects of this medication, so be patient and continue using it as directed by your doctor.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Be especially aware of your thoughts and feelings when you first start taking this medication. If you notice any dangerous changes, such as suicidal thoughts, tell your doctor immediately.
- Avoid stopping the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.
- If you overdose, immediately go to the National Poison Information Center or a hospital ETU .
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