Citalopram 20mg is a prescription Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals. Each pack contains 28 film-coated oral tablets.
Taken daily by mouth, adults take it for the treatment of major depressive episodes (depression) and panic disorder (with or without agoraphobia).
Citalopram works by restoring the balance of a natural chemical messenger in the brain called serotonin:
Increases Serotonin Availability: It selectively blocks the reuptake (reabsorption) of serotonin in the brain's nerve cells.
Improves Mood & Anxiety: Increasing available serotonin levels helps improve mood, relieve feelings of sadness, ease anxiety, and reduce the frequency of panic attacks.
🚨 Critical Warning: Do NOT stop taking Citalopram abruptly.
Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal or "discontinuation" symptoms, including dizziness, electric shock sensations, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and tremors.
Always consult your doctor to gradually reduce your dose when ending treatment.
🚨 Cardiac Warning: Citalopram can cause dose-dependent changes in your heart's electrical rhythm (QT prolongation).
Do NOT exceed the prescribed daily dose (maximum 20mg daily for adults aged 65 or older, or those with liver impairment).
Tell your doctor immediately if you experience sudden palpitations, severe dizziness, or fainting.
Initial Mood Changes & Suicidal Thoughts: When starting SSRIs or changing doses, some individuals—especially young adults under 25—may experience a temporary increase in anxiety, agitation, or suicidal thoughts before the medicine takes full effect. Close monitoring by family and healthcare providers is important during the first few weeks.
Serotonin Syndrome Risk: Do NOT take Citalopram alongside Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), St. John's Wort, or other strong serotonergic medicines, as this can cause a life-threatening reaction called serotonin syndrome.
Alcohol Notice: Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Citalopram, as it can worsen drowsiness and dizziness.
Standard Adult Dose: The recommended starting dose for depression is 1 tablet (20mg) once daily.
Timing: Take your tablet once a day, either in the morning or evening, with or without food.
Swallow Whole: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of plain water. Try to take it at the same time every day.
Citalopram is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects—especially during the first 1 to 2 weeks of starting—can include:
Nausea, dry mouth, or mild stomach upset.
Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) or feeling unusually sleepy during the day.
Increased sweating.
Sexual side effects (such as reduced sex drive or difficulty reaching orgasm).
How long does it take for Citalopram to work?
It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks of regular daily use to start noticing an improvement in your mood or anxiety symptoms. Continue taking your medication every day even if you do not feel an immediate difference right away.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you forget to take your tablet, take it as soon as you remember that day. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed tablet completely and return to your regular schedule. Never take 2 tablets at once to make up for a missed dose.
How should I store these tablets?
Keep the blister strips sealed inside their original carton to protect them from moisture and light. Store in a cool, dry room strictly below 25°C or 30°C, away from direct heat, and keep completely out of reach of children.
To ensure you receive 100% genuine, factory-authenticated prescription medicine, you can upload your doctor's official prescription directly online through Sanlive Pharmacy & Stores. We provide safe handling, verified clinical sourcing, and fast, discreet delivery straight to your door anywhere in Nigeria.
Notice: This guide is for basic information only. Psychiatric medications require direct medical supervision and regular follow-up with a doctor. If you or someone you know experiences severe agitation, irregular heartbeats, or thoughts of self-harm, seek immediate emergency medical evaluation.
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