Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Citalopram requires a valid prescription.
Citalopram
Generic Name: CITALOPRAM HYDROBROMIDE
Citalopram tablets, USP contains citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Citalopram Used For?
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults [see Clinical Studies (14) ]
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults ( 1 )
How Does It Work?
Citalopram has no or very low affinity for 5-HT 1A , 5-HT 2A , dopamine D 1 and D 2 , α 1 -, α 2 -, and β-adrenergic, histamine H 1 , gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), muscarinic cholinergic, and benzodiazepine receptors.
Dosage & Administration
- Administer once daily with or without food ( 2 ) .
- Initial dosage is 20 mg once daily; after one week may increase to maximum dosage of 40 mg once daily .
- Patients greater than 60 years of age, patients with hepatic impairment, and CYP2C19 poor metabolizers: maximum recommended dosage is 20 mg once daily .
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- Prolongation and Torsade de Pointes : Dose-dependent QTc prolongation, Torsade de pointes, ventricular tachycardia, and sudden death have occurred.
- Avoid use of citalopram in patients with congenital long QT syndrome, bradycardia, hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, recent acute myocardial infarction, or uncompensated heart failure and patients taking other drugs that prolong the QTc interval.
- Monitor electrolytes in patients at high risk for hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia.
- Serotonin Syndrome : Increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents, but also when taken alone.
- Increased Risk of Bleeding : Concomitant use of aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, other antiplatelet drugs, warfarin and other anticoagulants may increase this risk .
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Reactions have included angioedema and anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions ].
- Concomitant use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or use within 14 days of discontinuing a MAOI ( 4 ).
- Concomitant use of pimozide ( 4 ).
- Known hypersensitivity to citalopram or any of the inactive ingredients of citalopram ( 4 ).
Drug Interactions
Citalopram may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a psychiatrist on Zospital
Consult a psychiatrist on Zospital before starting Citalopram. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Mental Health Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Citalopram – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Citalopram, its uses, dosage and safety.
Citalopram is commonly prescribed in India for: Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults [see Clinical Studies (14) ], Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults ( 1 ). Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Citalopram is sold in India under brand names such as Celexa, Citalopram. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Citalopram is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Citalopram can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Headache, Dizziness, Fatigue, Dry mouth. Less common but serious side effects can include: Anaphylaxis, Suicidal, Seizure, Serotonin syndrome, Rhabdomyolysis. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
Citalopram has no or very low affinity for 5-HT 1A , 5-HT 2A , dopamine D 1 and D 2 , α 1 -, α 2 -, and β-adrenergic, histamine H 1 , gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), muscarinic cholinergic, and benzodiazepine receptors.
Citalopram can interact with: Citalopram, Monoamine, Clinical, Intervention, Administration, Pimozide. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Citalopram.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Citalopram for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Citalopram depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Citalopram during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Citalopram's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.