Clinical Overview
Citalopram is a racemic bicyclic phthalane derivative selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It potently and selectively blocks the neuronal reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) in the central nervous system, enhancing serotonergic neurotransmission. Indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Take orally once daily in the morning or evening with water, with or without food. Maintain regular dosing schedule. Taper gradually when discontinuing.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Nausea, dry mouth, somnolence, insomnia, diaphoresis, tremor, sexual dysfunction. Rare/Severe: Boxed warning: Suicidal ideation; dose-dependent QT interval prolongation and torsades de pointes, serotonin syndrome, and hyponatremia.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Black box warning for suicidality in young patients. Maximum dose is capped at 40 mg/day (or 20 mg/day in elderly/hepatic patients) due to dangerous QT prolongation. Contraindicated in congenital long QT syndrome and concurrent MAOIs.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a registered medical practitioner or qualified pharmacist before initiating, modifying, or substituting any medication regimen.