Doctors treating patients for depression usually start them on a dose of 20mg tablets of citalopram hydrobromide (HBr). The citalopram medication is also used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, and other mental illnesses.
Citalopram is the generic of the brand name drug Celexa. The antidepressant med, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), works by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin, a chemical that aids in mental balance, in the brain.
Citalopram 20mg Dose and Side Effects
Doctors frequently prescribe 20mg of citalopram for individuals suffering from depression and other psychiatric problems. The antidepressant also comes in 10 and 40mg pills and as a liquid solution.
Some patients experience side effects from citalopram. The most common side effects of the SSRI include sexual problems, headaches, lightheadedness, dizziness, tiredness, insomnia, sweating, appetite suppression, dry mouth, diarrhea, and nausea. Some individuals suffer an increase in anxiety and sometimes even panic attacks.
Many side effects subside or lessen in intensity as patients continue with the antidepressant drug therapy. Individuals should discuss severe or worrisome side effects with their doctor.
Citalopram and Alcohol
The patient advisory leaflet for citalopram instructs people not to drink alcohol while taking the antidepressant. Alcohol can intensify the sedating effects of the SSRI.
EMedExpert.com explains, “The clinical studies have shown … citalopram does not potentiate the cognitive and motor effects of alcohol. However, concurrent use of alcohol and citalopram is not recommended because of possible added depressant effect.”
Nevertheless, an alcoholic drink every once in while may be acceptable, according to OrganizedWisdom.com. The site comments, “Alcohol should only be used in moderation while taking this medication. It is recommended that if you do drink in moderation that you wait to see how citalopram affects your body. Do not operate a car or heavy machinery until effects are known.”
In short, it is best to check with a doctor on whether it is okay to drink alcohol while taking citalopram.
Generic Celexa Other Important Information
There are several additional considerations patients should be familiar with when being treated for psychiatric issues with citalopram:
Individuals should inform their doctor of other drugs they are currently taking or begin taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter meds, and herbal or other supplements.
The citalopram patient advisory leaflet instructs, “Do not take this medicine if you are taking escitalopram [Lexapro], a fenfluramine derivative (eg, dexfenfluramine), an H1 anatgonist (eg, astemizole, terfenadine, nefazodone, pimozide, or sibutramine. Do not take this medicine if you are taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (eg, phenelzine), selegiline, or St. John’s wort within the last 14 days.”
Some patients experience an immediate benefit after beginning to take 20mg of citalopram HBr. For others, it may take longer, up to several weeks or a month, to feel the full effect. Do not stop or change the dosage of citalopram without talking to the doctor.
Disclaimer: Only a qualified medical or mental health professional can prescribe citalopram. Do not start, stop or change medication dosages without consulting a qualified professional.
Sources:
- Citalopram, cbi.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved January 11, 2011.
- Citalopram and Alcohol, OrganizedWisdom.com. Retrieved January 11, 2011.
- Citalopram (Celexa), Depression.About.com. Retrieved January 11, 2011.
- Citalopram (Celexa) Medical Facts, eMedExpert.com. Retrieved January 11, 2011.
- Citalopram Patient Advisory Leaflet, Harmon’s Pharmacy.
- Citalopram Side Effects, Drugs.com. Retrieved January 11, 2011.
Aimee Larsen Stoddard - Aimee is a professional writer/editor. She has a BA in English and is currently completing an MS in Theology.
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