Citalopram for Depression

You may feel some relief within 1 to 2 weeks, but the full effect typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to manifest. This is because citalopram needs time to build up steady levels in your system, and your body gradually adjusts to the change.

Mixing alcohol and citalopram can increase drowsiness. It is best to hold off on drinking until you know how the medication impacts you.

Like most medications, citalopram can interact with other drugs. Make sure to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before starting citalopram. Common drug interactions include:

• Serotonergic drugs: Combining citalopram with other serotonergic drugs can heighten the risk of serotonin syndrome.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Taking citalopram and MAOIs together increases the risk of serotonin syndrome.
• Pimozide: Citalopram should not be taken with pimozide. Citalopram increases pimozide concentrations in the body, heightening the risk of ventricular arrhythmias and/or QT prolongation.
• CYP2C19 inhibitors: Taking citalopram with CYP2C19 inhibitors increases the risk of QT prolongation and/or ventricular arrhythmias. If you are taking this medication, your doctor will typically cap your citalopram dose at 20 mg per day.
• Medications that prolong the QTc interval: When taken with citalopram, these drugs can further extend the QT interval.

When purchasing citalopram online, always choose a licensed, reputable pharmacy. One way to confirm safety is to look for LegitScript approval, which guarantees the site meets rigorous safety and quality standards. ScriptsMD carries that credential, so you can feel confident you’re getting authentic, safe medication every time.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before starting citalopram. Use in the third trimester has been linked to the following risks in newborns:

• Respiratory distress
• Cyanosis
• Apnea (pauses in breathing)
• Seizures
• Inability to maintain a stable body temperature
• Difficulty feeding
• Vomiting
• Low blood sugar
• Reduced muscle tone
• Muscle tremors
• Irritability
• Constant crying

Citalopram also passes into breast milk and may cause infants to experience restlessness, excessive sleepiness, poor feeding, or weight loss.

Citalopram tablets come in three dosages: 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg. Your doctor will typically start you on 20 mg once daily. After a week, your doctor may increase the dose up to a maximum of 40 mg once daily if needed. However, if you are over 60 years old, have liver impairment, or are taking CYP2C19 inhibitors, the maximum dose is 20 mg once daily.

In clinical studies, people on citalopram lost an average of about 0.5 kg (1.1 lb), while those on placebo saw no change. If you notice any significant or unexpected shifts in your weight, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.