Citalopram/Escitalopram

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

[citalopram] Adco-Talomil, Cilift, Cipramil, Depramil

[escitalopram] Aspen escitalopram, Cipralex, Citraz, Lexamil, Mylan escitalopram, Zytomil

Drug group:

Antidepressant drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Citalopram and escitalopram are selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRI’s) used to treat:

• Depression: gradual improvement in mood and interest in everyday pursuits
• Anxiety disorders: panic disorder, social/generalized anxiety disorders

How should it be used?

• Can be taken in the morning or evening, but try take doses at a similar time every day
• Avoid citalopram/escitalopram if MAOIs have been taken in the last 14 days

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Depressive illness: 20–60mg (citalopram); 10–20mg (escitalopram)
• Panic attacks: 10–60mg (citalopram); 5–20mg (escitalopram)
• Social anxiety disorder: 5–20mg (escitalopram)
• Generalized anxiety disorder: 10–20mg (escitalopram)

How quickly will it start to work?

Some benefit may appear within 7 days, but full benefits may not be felt for 2–6 weeks; panic attacks may take longer to resolve.
              

How long will the effects last?

Antidepressant effect may persist for some weeks following prolonged treatment. 

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor, stopping abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Adults - no problems expected, mild withdrawal symptoms if the drug is stopped abruptly. Children/adolescents <18yrs - small risk of suicidal thoughts, monitor carefully. You may need blood tests to check for low sodium levels if you experience drowsiness, confusion, muscle cramps, or seizures.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects are generally dose related and usually diminish with continued use of the drugs.

The following have been reported:

• More common: nausea, vomiting, indigestion, diarrhoea/constipation, anxiety, insomnia, headache, tremor, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, sweating
• Less common: sexual dysfunction
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: seizures, rash, suicidal thoughts or attempts

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: epilepsy, diabetes, liver/kidney/heart problems, history of a manic-depressive illness
• Other medicines: Sumatriptan, other 5HT1 agonists, lithium, St. John’s wort, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), anticoagulants
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Not generally recommended under 18 years
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, drug can cause drowsiness
• Alcohol: No special problems