CelexaŽ (citalopram) is used to treat depression
by helping to restore the balance of certain natural
chemicals in the brain. CelexaŽ has been prescribed
for over a decade to help patients find relief
from depression--if you are suffering from depression,
CelexaŽ may be able to help you, too.
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CelexaŽ
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement,
not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your
physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
It should not be construed to indicate that use of the
drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Uses
Citalopram is used to treat depression. This medication
works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural
chemicals in the brain.
Other Uses
This medication has also been used to treat certain
eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia).
How to Use
Take this medication by mouth usually once daily, with
or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The
dosage is based on your medical condition and response
to therapy. It is important to continue taking this
medication as prescribed even if you feel well. Also,
do not stop taking this medication without consulting
your doctor. It may take up to several weeks before
the full benefit of this drug takes effect.
Side Effects
Nausea, drowsiness, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, upset
stomach, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects
persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell
your doctor immediately if any of these serious side
effects occur: vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual or
severe mental/mood changes, increased sweating/flushing,
unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor). Tell
your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but
serious side effects occur: blurred vision, stomach
pain, fever, joint pain, muscle pain, unusually fast
heartbeat, decreased interest in sex, changes in sexual
ability, change in amount of urine. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these highly unlikelybut very
serious side effects occur: weight changes, taste changes,
changes in menstrual period, unusual swelling of the
hands/feet/face, seizures, painful and/or prolonged
erection. If you notice other effects not listed above,
contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of:
liver problems, kidney problems, seizures, heart problems,
other mental/mood disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder),
thyroid problems, any allergies. This drug may make
you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities
requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery.
Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using
this product in the elderly because they may be more
sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication
should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This
drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential
risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this
drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before
breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications taken with this product could result
in serious, even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid taking
MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, isocarboxazid, linezolid,
moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
within 2 weeks before or after treatment with this medication.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.
This drug is not recommended for use with: weight loss
drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine). Ask your doctor
or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor of
all prescription and nonprescription medication you
may use, especially: other SSRI antidepressants (e.g.,
fluoxetine, sertraline), nefazodone, trazodone, tramadol,
venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine drugs (e.g., sumatriptan,
zolmitriptan), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline,
nortriptyline), cimetidine, lithium, itraconazole, macrolide
antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), any
herbal/ natural products (e.g., melatonin, St John's
wort, ayahuasca). Tell your doctor if you take any drugs
that cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep, sedatives,
tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam),
narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric
medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine),
anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants,
certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Do not
start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms
of overdose may include: irregular heartbeat, fainting,
severe dizziness or lightheadedness.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory
and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your
progress.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed
dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double
the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees
F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
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