Citalopram
Uses of Citalopram
Citalopram is commonly used to treat Anxiety Disorder, Depression or depressive phase of bipolar disorder, Panic disorder with or without a form of Phobia such as agoraphobia.
How Citalopram Works
Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. This will increase the serotonin activity in the brain that is responsible to exert anti-depressant and anxiolytic property.
Side Effects of Citalopram
Reduce Appetite, Reduce weight, Agitation Reduce libido, Anxiety and nervousness, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Pruritus, Impotence
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
No dosage adjustment of Citalopram may be needed.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Citalopram as you may experience dizziness when taking them together.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Human studies indicate no malformative fetal toxicity. Nevertheless, it should not be used during pregnancy unless when necessary and after consideration of risk/benefit. Avoid abrupt discontinuation of Citalopram and usage especially in later stage of pregnancy as there is risk of Serotonin Syndrome to neonate.
Driving Not advisable
Citalopram has minor to moderate ability to affect general attention and concentration during driving. It may be due to the illness or psychoactive medication.
Liver Use With Care
Citalopram should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Citalopram may be needed in mild to moderate disease. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Not Advisable
Citalopram is found to be excreted in human milk. No or only minor events have been observed in infants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
