Citalopram 20mg.

Citalopram 20mg. — Uses and Benefits

Citalopram 20mg is primarily prescribed to treat depression and anxiety-related conditions.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of major depressive disorder
• Management of panic disorder with or without agoraphobia
• Sometimes used for other anxiety-related conditions as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Increases the availability of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain that affects mood
• Helps improve mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels over time
• Full benefit usually takes a few weeks of regular use

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a quick-fix or one-time relief medicine for stress or sadness
• Not used for treating bipolar disorder mania on its own
• Not a sleeping pill or painkiller
• Not recommended for children unless specifically advised by a specialist

How to Use Citalopram 20mg.

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, at the same time each day
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms
• It may take several weeks before you notice the full benefit

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Dispose of unused medicine safely, do not flush down the drain

Citalopram 20mg. — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Sweating
• Difficulty sleeping

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Reduced appetite
• Dizziness
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Changes in sexual desire or performance
• Yawning

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or worsening depression
• Irregular heartbeat or fainting
• Severe allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face/lips, difficulty breathing
• Signs of serotonin syndrome such as agitation, high fever, muscle stiffness, rapid heartbeat
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Citalopram 20mg. — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to citalopram or any other SSRI
• Are currently taking or have recently stopped MAOI antidepressants
• Have a certain heart rhythm condition called QT prolongation

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of heart disease or irregular heartbeat
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Have a history of bleeding disorders
• Have epilepsy or seizures
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of bipolar disorder or suicidal thoughts

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antidepressants, including MAOIs and SSRIs
• Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin
• Migraine medicines called triptans
• NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen
• Medicines that affect heart rhythm

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking this medicine once I feel better?

No, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms; always taper off under your doctor's guidance.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it may increase drowsiness and other side effects.

How long does it take to work?

• Most people notice improvement in 2 to 4 weeks, though full benefit may take longer.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.