Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) prescription medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. As a well-established antidepressant, it works by increasing the availability of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps maintain mental balance. Its efficacy, coupled with a generally favorable side effect profile compared to older antidepressant classes, has made it a commonly prescribed option in clinical practice for managing depressive symptoms and improving overall quality of life.

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 an oral solution (10 mg/5 mL)
• Prescription-only medication
• Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards

Benefits

• Effectively reduces symptoms of major depressive disorder, including low mood, loss of interest, and fatigue
• Helps restore emotional balance and improve overall daily functioning
• Generally well-tolerated with a lower incidence of certain side effects compared to tricyclic antidepressants
• Once-daily dosing supports treatment adherence
• Non-sedating for most patients, allowing for daytime use without significant drowsiness
• Can improve sleep quality, appetite, and energy levels as depression lifts

Common use

Celexa is primarily indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It is used to manage the core symptoms of depression, which may include persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. Treatment is typically initiated after a thorough diagnostic evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider. While not FDA-approved for other conditions, some clinicians may prescribe it off-label for panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, based on clinical judgment and evidence.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dosage of Celexa for most adults is 20 mg once daily, taken in the morning or evening, with or without food. Based on individual patient response and tolerability, the dosage may be increased to a maximum of 40 mg per day after at least one week. Dose adjustments should only be made under the supervision of a healthcare provider. For certain patient populations, such as those with hepatic impairment or elderly patients, a lower starting dose of 10 mg per day is recommended. The full therapeutic effect may take 4 to 6 weeks to become apparent. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed or chewed. Do not abruptly discontinue treatment without medical guidance.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial few months of therapy or after dose changes. Celexa may cause activation of mania/hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder; screening for bipolar disorder is recommended prior to initiation. Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures. SSRI use may be associated with an increased risk of bleeding; caution is advised in patients taking anticoagulants or with underlying bleeding risk. Celexa can cause hyponatremia, particularly in elderly patients, those taking diuretics, or those who are volume-depleted. Discontinuation symptoms may occur if stopped abruptly. Patients should avoid alcohol during treatment.

Contraindications

Celexa is contraindicated in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI treatment due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. It is also contraindicated in patients taking pimozide or in those with known hypersensitivity to citalopram or any component of the formulation. Due to dose-dependent QT interval prolongation, it is contraindicated in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. The use of Celexa is not recommended in patients with certain cardiac conditions or electrolyte abnormalities that may increase the risk of QT prolongation.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (≥5% and greater than placebo) include: nausea, dry mouth, somnolence, insomnia, increased sweating, fatigue, and ejaculation disorder. Other reported side effects may include: diarrhea, indigestion, tremor, anxiety, anorexia, palpitations, sinusitis, yawning, and joint/muscle pain. Although less common, serious side effects can occur and may include: serotonin syndrome, abnormal bleeding, angle-closure glaucoma, hyponatremia, mania/hypomania, seizures, and QT prolongation. Any unusual or severe symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.

Drug interaction

Celexa has the potential to interact with several medications. Concomitant use with MAOIs is contraindicated. It may increase the risk of bleeding when used with NSAIDs, aspirin, warfarin, or other anticoagulants. Use with other serotonergic drugs (e.g., tramadol, triptans, other SSRIs/SNRIs) increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Drugs that prolong the QT interval (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, antibiotics) should be used with caution. Celexa may increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19 (e.g., omeprazole) and CYP3A4. Carbamazepine may decrease citalopram levels. Cimetidine can increase citalopram concentrations. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Missed dose

If a dose of Celexa is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. However, if it is near the time of the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining a consistent daily routine is important for therapeutic effectiveness.

Overdose

Symptoms of Celexa overdose may include dizziness, sweating, nausea, vomiting, tremor, somnolence, sinus tachycardia, and in severe cases, seizures, ECG changes (including QT prolongation), and coma. Serotonin syndrome is a risk in overdose situations. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic; there is no specific antidote. Ensure airway protection and monitor cardiac function and vital signs.

Storage

Store Celexa tablets and oral solution at room temperature (20°–25°C or 68°–77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°–30°C (59°–86°F). Keep in the original container, tightly closed, and protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Individual patient needs and responses to medication may vary.

Reviews

(Note: Actual patient reviews should be sourced from verified platforms and interpreted by a healthcare professional. The following represents a synthesized summary of common themes from clinical experience and patient-reported outcomes.)

Many patients report significant improvement in mood, energy levels, and overall functioning after several weeks of consistent Celexa use. Positive outcomes often include reduced anxiety, better sleep patterns, and increased ability to engage in daily activities. Some users note initial side effects such as nausea or drowsiness, which frequently diminish over time. A subset of patients may not achieve desired results or may experience side effects that lead to discontinuation. Effectiveness and tolerability are highly individual, and a therapeutic trial under medical supervision is necessary to evaluate personal response. Long-term users often emphasize the importance of not discontinuing abruptly and maintaining open communication with their prescriber.