Citalopram

Filed under: Anti Depressant Medication

Displayed: Citalopram Cipramil 30mg

Citalopram is an antidepressant drug used to treat major depression associated with mood disorders. It is also used on occasion in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder and anxiety. Citalopram belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is generally considered safe and well-tolerated.

It is also used in the treatment of panic disorder and depressive illness. Citalopram increases the patients outlook and physical activity and it restores interest in day to day activities. Like other SSRI’s citalopram causes fewer anticholinergic side effects. and is less sedating than other tricyclic anti-depressants, such as amitriptyline. It is also considered to be less of a risk if taken as an overdose. If you are under the age of 18yrs. citalopram would be administed on a individul basis by your specilast if he feels you would benefit from this drug.

Citalopram is sold under the brand-names Cipramil (Australia, Brazil, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Sweden, United Kingdom), Celexa (U.S. and Canada, Forest Laboratories, Inc.).

Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Antidepressant danger of overdose – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – NO.
• Alcohol Avoidance – NO.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages, on the other hand you may find you do not suffer any side effects at all. It does not follow being on this medication will cause you unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Constipation, Dry Mouth, Diarrhoea, Indigestion, Nausea, Vomiting.

Rare: Anxiety, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Headaches, Insomnia, Rash, increased Sweating, Tremor and a possibility of sleep problems.

The side effects listed here may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

No problems would be expected. However, if gradual reduction is not practised mild side effects could result.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Alcohol would not be a problem. However, pursuits like driving and operating machinery may need to be avoided until you know how citalopram affects you.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

The safety of citalopram in pregnancy is not known. The drug may pass into the breast milk and may affect the baby. Discuss both issues with your doctor.

Citalopram is classified as a pregnancy Category C medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Category C… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Surgery

It would be advisable if you discussed any form of medication you may be taken with your doctor/dentist, or if you need to undergo any form of surgery. (Prevention being better than the cure.)

Tell Your Doctor

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary/alternative medication.

Over 60′s & Children

A reduced dose is necessary for the over sixties. citalopram would not be recommended for children/infants.

Overdose

An extra dose would not be seen as a concern. However, if you notice unusual symptoms or you think a large overdose has been taken notify your doctor.

Other Medication Reactions

Citalopram may increase the risk of arrhythmias when taken with terfenadine. Anticoagulation drugs may also be increased when taken with citalopram. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI’s) may cause severe reactions if taken along-side citalopram/escitalopram (Escitalopram is the active enantiomer of citalopram). There should be at least a cool down period of 1 week from your last citalopram tablet/drops before commencing with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and if you are taking MAOIs then there should be a cool down period of at least 2 weeks since your last MAOI drug before taking citalopram.

There is also an increased risk of adverse reactions if taken sumatriptan and other 5Ht1 agonists and lithium. Citalopram and escitalopram increase plasma concentration of metoprolol. Plasma concentration of citalopram possibly increased by bupropion and tryptophan, a common dietary supplement, can cause headaches, nausea, sweating, and dizziness when taken with any SSRIs.

Missed A Dose

If you forget to take your medication then take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 8 hours take a single dose and skip the next. Ideally you would have already checked with your doctor. Failing this ring the surgery or check next time you see your doctor.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

An abrupt stop in taking this medication can result in unpleasant side effects. See your doctor who will advise a slow withdrawal from the drug when the time is right.

Effect Of Medication

It is possible to feel some effect after 7 days. Full benefit from citalopram may not be felt for 2 to 4 weeks.

Storage and Safety

• Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted medication / drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines / drugs to your pharmacist.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or they feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.

Natural Remedy

Depression can be a natural response to a period of crisis/emotional upset. Sleeping habits often become upset during this period the sufferer getting either to little or to much. If you find yourself in this corner then the Aromatherapist would recommend, Citrus Essences, Clary Sage, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Sandal Wood. Consistant depression, Chronic depression needs professional help. Arrange to see your GP he may be able to put you in touch with a counsellor or a psychotherapist. Mild depression can be helped by aromatherapy…