Citalopram, commonly known by its brand name Celexa, is an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of depression. SSRIs work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain. Serotonin is believed to play a key role in mood regulation, and imbalances are associated with depressive disorders. Citalopram was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1998.
As a prescription medication, Citalopram is typically taken orally, usually once daily. The dosage is determined by a licensed clinician based on the individual's specific condition, response to treatment, and other medical factors. It is not suitable for self-medication and requires ongoing professional supervision.
The medication is available in tablet and oral solution forms. While generally effective for many individuals, it is important to understand its potential side effects, drug interactions, and contraindications before starting treatment. Individuals should not discontinue Citalopram abruptly without consulting their healthcare provider, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. (FDA label, MedlinePlus)
Deep dive
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Known interactions
Category rule: supplement × medication
Note
Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.
Category rule: vitamin × medication
Note
Certain vitamins interact with specific medications (e.g., vitamin K with blood thinners).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed source; confirm with your provider.
Compound-pair rule
Avoid
Combining SSRIs/SNRIs with MAOIs can cause life-threatening serotonin syndrome.
Do not combine. Allow at least 14 days between stopping one and starting the other (5 weeks for fluoxetine).
Compound-pair rule
Avoid
Combining SSRIs/SNRIs with MAOIs can cause life-threatening serotonin syndrome.
Do not combine. Allow at least 14 days between stopping one and starting the other (5 weeks for fluoxetine).
Compound-pair rule
Avoid
Combining SSRIs/SNRIs with MAOIs can cause life-threatening serotonin syndrome.
Do not combine. Allow at least 14 days between stopping one and starting the other (5 weeks for fluoxetine).
Compound-pair rule
Avoid
Combining SSRIs/SNRIs with MAOIs can cause life-threatening serotonin syndrome.
Do not combine. Allow at least 14 days between stopping one and starting the other (5 weeks for fluoxetine).
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) label for Citalopram", "MedlinePlus - National Library of Medicine", "Mayo Clinic", "National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS)", "PubChem - National Center for Biotechnology Information", "DrugBank - University of Alberta", "Cochrane Library", "European Medicines Agency (EMA) Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the medication category or studied for the same goals.
