

Celexa
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Celexa: Effective SSRI Treatment for Depression Relief
Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant approved by the FDA for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. As a well-established medication in its class, Celexa works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps improve mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels. It is widely prescribed due to its efficacy, generally favorable side effect profile, and extensive clinical history. This product card provides a comprehensive overview for healthcare professionals and informed patients.
Features
- Active ingredient: citalopram hydrobromide
- Drug class: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
- Available in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg film-coated tablets
- Also available as oral solution (10 mg/5 mL)
- FDA-approved for major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Generic versions available
- Requires prescription
- Typically taken once daily, with or without food
Benefits
- Effectively reduces symptoms of depression, including low mood and loss of interest
- Helps restore emotional balance and improves overall sense of well-being
- May alleviate associated anxiety symptoms often present with depression
- Generally well-tolerated with a lower incidence of certain side effects compared to older antidepressants
- Once-daily dosing supports treatment adherence
- Non-sedating for most patients, allowing for daytime use without significant drowsiness
Common use
Celexa is primarily indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It is also used off-label for other conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), though these uses are not formally approved by the FDA. Treatment response is typically observed within 1-4 weeks, with full therapeutic effects potentially taking up to 8 weeks. Maintenance therapy is often recommended for 6-12 months after symptom resolution to prevent relapse.
Dosage and direction
The recommended starting dosage for Celexa is 20 mg once daily, with or without food. Based on individual patient response and tolerability, the dosage may be increased to a maximum of 40 mg daily after a minimum of one week. For elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment, the maximum recommended dose is 20 mg daily. Dosage adjustments should be made cautiously and under medical supervision. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or cheated. The oral solution should be measured carefully using the provided dosing device.
Precautions
Patients should be monitored closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial few months of therapy or during dosage adjustments. Celexa may cause hyponatremia, particularly in elderly patients, those taking diuretics, or those who are volume-depleted. Use with caution in patients with a history of mania/hypomania or seizure disorders. May prolong the QT interval at higher doses; ECG monitoring is recommended in patients with cardiac conditions. Abrupt discontinuation may lead to withdrawal symptoms; taper gradually under medical supervision.
Contraindications
Celexa is contraindicated in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy due to risk of serotonin syndrome. Contraindicated in patients taking pimozide due to potential for QT prolongation. Should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to citalopram or any component of the formulation. Not recommended for use in patients with congenital long QT syndrome or those with significant bradycardia, recent acute myocardial infarction, or uncompensated heart failure.
Possible side effects
Common side effects (≥5%) include: nausea, dry mouth, somnolence, insomnia, increased sweating, fatigue, and drowsiness. Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, and anorgasmia, may occur. Less frequent side effects include: tremor, anxiety, agitation, yawning, gastrointestinal disturbances, and appetite changes. Rare but serious side effects include: serotonin syndrome, abnormal bleeding, angle-closure glaucoma, hyponatremia, and QT interval prolongation. Most side effects are dose-dependent and often diminish with continued therapy.
Drug interaction
Celexa has significant interactions with MAOIs (risk of serotonin syndrome). May increase bleeding risk when used with NSAIDs, aspirin, or other anticoagulants. Concurrent use with other serotonergic drugs (tramadol, linezolid, triptans) may increase serotonin syndrome risk. May increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 (e.g., flecainide, propafenone, vinblastine). Strong CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole) may increase citalopram levels. Use with caution with other QT-prolonging drugs. May interact with alcohol, potentially enhancing CNS depression.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling up on doses is not recommended. Patients should be advised to maintain a consistent dosing routine and consider using reminder tools if missed doses become frequent.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, sweating, nausea, vomiting, tremor, somnolence, and sinus tachycardia. In severe cases, seizures, QT prolongation, and coma may occur. Serotonin syndrome manifestations may be present. There is no specific antidote; treatment should be supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be considered if presented early. ECG monitoring is recommended for at least 24 hours. Multiple drug ingestion should be suspected and managed accordingly.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F). Keep in original container, tightly closed, and protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication through take-back programs or following FDA-recommended disposal methods.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Celexa is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. Patients should not initiate, discontinue, or change dosage without consulting their healthcare provider. Full prescribing information, including boxed warnings, should be reviewed before use.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate Celexa’s efficacy in treating major depressive disorder, with response rates significantly superior to placebo. Many patients report improved mood, energy levels, and overall functioning. Some users note initial side effects that often diminish over time. Healthcare providers frequently prescribe Celexa as a first-line SSRI due to its generally favorable tolerability profile. Long-term maintenance therapy has shown effectiveness in preventing relapse of depressive episodes. Patient experiences vary, and individual response should be monitored throughout treatment.