|
Medication Information:
Citalopram (generic) - Celexa
(brand)
Manufacturer: Forest Laboratories, St. Louis, Mo.
Classification: Antidepressant
Common
Major Side Effects: Dizziness; nausea; insomnia;
sleepiness; dry mouth; increased sweating; delay in ejaculation
(for men).
Interactions with Other Medications: Citalopram may
interact with some antifungal, antibiotic, or antiviral drugs; some
gastrointestinal drugs; some medications for the heart and blood
pressure; some antihistamines; and drugs that affect the central
nervous system such as other antidepressants (especially monoamine
oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs), antianxiety medications, or
hypnotics. Herbal and dietary supplements can interact as well.
Most of these interactions are mild and of little concern. However,
they may occasionally be very important. Always make sure that you
inform all your health care providers about all the medications you
are taking (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal) and check
with them before starting any new medication.
Common
Dosages: The usual initial dose of citalopram is 20 mg once
daily, with an increase to a dose of 40 mg daily. Dose increases
should occur in increments of 20 mg at intervals of no less than
one week. Some patients may require a dose of 60 mg daily. The
elderly and people with liver damage may need a lower dose of 20 mg
daily.
Identification: Citalopram is available in 20 mg and 40 mg
tablets. The 20 mg tablets are pink, oval-shaped, and film-coated,
imprinted on the scored side with "F" and "P.,' The 20 mg tablet is
imprinted with "20 mg" on the non-scored side. The 40 mg tablets
are white, oval, scored, and film-coated. On the scored side, they
are imprinted with "F" and "P." On the non-scored side, the 40 mg
tablets are imprinted with "40 mg."
Storage: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86
degrees in a tightly closed, light- and moisture-resistant
container. Keep out of direct sunlight. Do not store in the
bathroom or other areas that are warm and humid. Keep out of reach
of children.
Edited by
Stephen R. Sakiad, Pharm.D.
A
SERVICE OF Psychopharmacology Update
Note: These guidelines are for general information only. For more
specific information, consult your physician or
pharmacist.
|
