Citalopram or Celexa Medication Information (dosing, side effects, patient counseling)

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 11:37:35 +0000

Your Medication Citalopram

Citalopram is also known as the brand name: Celexa

Citalopram is most commonly used for depression and mood changes, but also used for eating disorders, OCD, and hot flashes. No matter what your doctor has you taking it for, citalopram is usually taken by mouth once daily and, it is safe to take either with meals or on an empty stomach. It may take up to 4 weeks before you see the full benefit from taking it. DO NOT stop taking at once, if your doctors tells you to stop taking it then you will go from your normal dose and decrease to a smaller dose every week until you are off the medication.

Standard dosing of citalopram ranges from: 10 mg to 40 mg

Some common side effects with citalopram include feeling tired or not being able to sleep, sweating, nausea, yawning or dry mouth.
Some less common side effects with citalopram include diarrhea, change in sex drive, erection lasting longer than 4 hours, shaking or muscle weakness, nervousness, or runny nose.

Do not take citalopram if you have had any thoughts of suicide.

While taking citalopram, remember it is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have:
• If you have ever had any heart problems
• Any worsening depression or suicidal thoughts
• Headache, trouble focusing, memory problems, weakness, seizures could be signs of low sodium
• Vomiting blood, blood in urine, black or red stools, increase in period bleeding, or lots of bruising could be a sign of bleeding