Antidepressant Citalopram
Citalopram also goes by other brand names such as Cipramil and Celexa. It is a very popular antidepressant medication belonging to the group called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs). It is used for treating the symptoms related to major depressive disorder as per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The official approval was received in the year 1998. It can be used for treating other medical conditions as well, but they are mostly off-label. In other countries like Portugal, Poland, United Kingdom, Germany, and other European nations, this drug can be used for panic disorder, agoraphobia along with major depressive disorder. Denmark and Spain have also licensed it for using in case of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Uses of Citalopram
As mentioned earlier, it is majorly used for treating depression. It helps in enhancing the feeling of wellness along with the energy level in the human body. As it is a part of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), is mainly affects the neurotransmitter called serotonin to bring about a balance in the mood. This makes the person feel better and recover from the depressive symptoms.
It is also used for panic disorder along with or without agoraphobia. Other off-label uses would include body dismorphic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, Dysthymia, and premenstrual dismorphic disorder.
Side Effects of Citalopram
There are several side effects caused by Citalopram. Some of them are severe in nature and can be really dangerous. In case you feel that any of the side effects experienced by you are going out of control, you will have to consult your doctor immediately. Some of the side effects are mentioned below:
- Bleeding gums
- Behaviour changes that can mimic drunkenness
- Lack of emotion
- Agitation
- Troubled breathing
- Fainting or dizziness
- Convulsions or seizures
- Itching or skin rashes
- Stupor
- Sweating
- Nosebleed
- Increased thrist
- Rapid gaining of weight
- Overactive reflexes
- Poor coordination
- Acting or talking with a level of excitement that cannot be controlled
- Irregular or slow heartbeat
- Red or purple coloured spots appearing on the skin
- Lethargy
- Hives
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Drooling
- General body swelling
- Having false beliefs or delusions that are resistant to facts
- Losing the control over your own bladder
- Swellings that are hive-like appearing on tongue, face, throat, or eyelids
- Bloody stools
- Confusion regarding the person, time, and place
- Cough
- Pale skin
- Continuing and frequent erections
- Muscle spasms or cramps
- Total body jerking
Contraindications of Citalopram
There are several medical conditions which when a patient has, would hinder with the action of Citalopram. Hence, they are contraindicated to these patients. Some of these medical conditions are:
- Allergic reaction to SSRIs and Citalopram Analogues
- Liver problems
- Manic-Depression
- Closed angle glaucoma
- Suicidal thoughts’
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
- Slow heartbeat
- Bleeding from the stomach
Pregnancy and Citalopram
As Citalopram was assigned the category C by the FDA, it indicates that there are chances of foetal harm when prescribed to pregnant women.
Mode of Ingestion
Citalopram needs to be taken orally.
