The
following information is a summary about
Citalopram.
It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Citalopram USES
Citalopram (Celexa) is used to treat depression.
Citalopram works by helping to restore the balance
of certain natural chemicals in the brain. Citalopram
has also been used to treat certain eating disorders
(e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia).
Citalopram DIRECTIONS
Take Citalopram by mouth usually once daily,
with or without food; or as directed by your doctor.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and
response to therapy. It is important to continue
taking Citalopram as prescribed even if you feel
well. Also, do not stop taking Citalopram without
consulting your doctor. It may take up to several
weeks before the full benefit of Citalopram takes
effect.
Citalopram SIDE EFFECTS
Nausea, drowsiness, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, upset
stomach, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these
effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious
side effects occur: vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual
or severe mental/mood changes, increased sweating/flushing,
unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor).
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely
but serious side effects occur: blurred vision, stomach
pain, fever, joint pain, muscle pain, unusually fast
heartbeat, decreased interest in sex, changes in
sexual ability, change in amount of urine. Tell your
doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikelybut
very serious side effects occur: weight changes,
taste changes, changes in menstrual period, unusual
swelling of the hands/feet/face, seizures, painful
and/or prolonged erection. If you notice other effects
not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Citalopram PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially
of: liver problems, kidney problems, seizures, heart
problems, other mental/mood disorders (e.g., bipolar
disorder), thyroid problems, any allergies. Citalopram
may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging
in activities requiring alertness such as driving
or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution
is advised when using this product in the elderly
because they may be more sensitive to the effects
of the drug. Citalopram should be used only
when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the
risks and benefits with your doctor. Citalopram passes
into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to
the infant, breast-feeding while using Citalopram
is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Citalopram DRUG INTERACTIONS
Certain medications taken with Citalopram could result
in serious, even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid
taking MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, isocarboxazid,
linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine,
selegiline, tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks before
or after treatment with Citalopram. Consult
your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.
Citalopram is not recommended for use with: weight
loss drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine). Ask
your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell
your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
medication you may use, especially: other SSRI antidepressants
(e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), nefazodone, trazodone,
tramadol, venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine drugs (e.g.,
sumatriptan, zolmitriptan), tricyclic antidepressants
(e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline), cimetidine,
lithium, itraconazole, macrolide antibiotics (e.g.,
clarithromycin, erythromycin), any herbal/ natural
products (e.g., melatonin, St John's wort, ayahuasca).
Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that cause
drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep, sedatives,
tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam),
narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric
medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine),
anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle
relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine).
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor
or pharmacist approval.
Citalopram OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms
of overdose may include: irregular heartbeat, fainting,
severe dizziness or lightheadedness.
Citalopram NOTES
Do not share Citalopram with others. Inform all your
doctors you use (or have used) Citalopram.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, use Citalopram as soon as you
remember. If it is near the time of the next dose,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing
schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Citalopram STORAGE
Store Citalopram at room temperature between 36 and
77 degrees F (2 -25 degrees C) away from light and
moisture.
