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What Is the Medicine Citalopram Used For?

Citalopram is a drug used in the treatment of depression. It may also be prescribed for other health purposes. Citalopram has side effects and may interact with other drugs, and women should be especially cautious when taking it.

  1. Description

    • Citalopram is a generic drug and is part of the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. Although it is used in the treatment of depression, citalopram is chemically unrelated to other antidepressants.

    Uses

    • Citalopram is commonly prescribed for depression. It may also be prescribed for other health conditions, including obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), binge-eating, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Raynaud's phenomenon, alcoholism and more.

    Side Effects

    • According to the AARP, there are side effects that should be reported immediately to your doctor; these include seizures, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, confusion, actions out of control, allergic reactions and unusual bruising and bleeding. Other side effects do not usually require medical attention unless bothersome.

    Interactions

    • Citalopram is known to interact with 21 drugs. In addition to prescribed drugs, these interactions include aspirin and aspirin-like drugs, St. John's Wort, and NSAIDs like naxopren and ibuprofen.

    Special Population Warning

    • For women who are pregnant or breast-feeding, citalopram can pass into the circulation of the developing fetus and can also pass into breast milk. Women are advised to discuss the risks and benefits with a health care provider.

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