Citalopram
Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. In the UK it is commonly prescribed for depression and sometimes for anxiety disorders when a prescriber judges it appropriate.
This medicine is part of the Mental health medicines category.
Generic name: citalopram
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant.
How long does it take to work?
Many antidepressants need several weeks on a steady dose before full benefit; your GP usually reviews you in that window.
What are common side effects?
Common effects include nausea, dry mouth, headache, sweating, sleep changes, yawning, or sexual side effects.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Citalopram interacts with many medicines including other antidepressants, tramadol, triptans, NSAIDs (bleeding risk), and some antibiotics that affect heart rhythm.
More about what Citalopram is used for
Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. In the UK it is commonly prescribed for depression and sometimes for anxiety disorders when a prescriber judges it appropriate.
Treatment usually includes follow-up with your GP or mental health team and may combine with talking therapies.
How does Citalopram work, and how long does it take to work?
SSRIs increase serotonin activity between nerve cells, which is thought to help mood and anxiety symptoms over weeks rather than immediately.
Your prescriber may keep you on a steady dose for a period before judging response.
How and when should you take Citalopram?
Citalopram is usually taken once daily, often in the morning but sometimes in the evening if it affects sleep. Swallow tablets with water, with or without food.
Do not stop suddenly without medical advice — your GP may suggest a gradual reduction.
What are the common side effects of Citalopram?
Common effects include nausea, dry mouth, headache, sweating, sleep changes, yawning, or sexual side effects. Many improve after the first couple of weeks.
Speak to your GP or pharmacist if side effects are distressing.
Serious side effects of Citalopram — when to get urgent help
Seek urgent help if you have thoughts of harming yourself, severe agitation, signs of serotonin syndrome, fits, or severe allergic reaction.
Citalopram can affect heart rhythm at higher doses in susceptible people — your prescriber may consider ECG or dose limits if you have risk factors.
What if you miss a dose of Citalopram?
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless your next dose is due soon. Do not take a double dose.
If you vomit after a dose, ask your pharmacist for advice.
Who should not take Citalopram?
Do not take citalopram with MAOIs or within the prohibited interval after stopping an MAOI — your prescriber defines safe switching.
Caution with epilepsy, bipolar disorder, bleeding disorders, and some heart conditions. St John’s wort must not be combined with citalopram.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Citalopram? — other interactions
Citalopram interacts with many medicines including other antidepressants, Tramadol, triptans, NSAIDs (bleeding risk), and some antibiotics that affect heart rhythm. Always check with a pharmacist before adding new drugs.
Alcohol may worsen drowsiness and low mood — your GP or pharmacist may advise limits.
Citalopram in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Speak to your GP or psychiatrist before changing citalopram in pregnancy or breastfeeding — decisions balance risks of untreated depression with medicine safety.
Blood tests and monitoring on Citalopram
Reviews are often arranged after starting and after dose changes. ECG or blood tests may be used in some people, especially at higher doses or with other risk factors.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Citalopram?
Your GP may consider Sertraline, Fluoxetine, other antidepressant classes, or psychological therapies depending on symptoms and past response.
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Reviewed by UK registered pharmacists for accuracy and clarity. Content is informational only.
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Frequently asked questions about Citalopram
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Citalopram used for?
- Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. In the UK it is commonly prescribed for depression and sometimes for anxiety disorders when a prescriber judges it appropriate.
- How long does citalopram take to work?
- Some people notice changes in 2–4 weeks; mood may improve further over 6 weeks or more. Your prescriber usually reviews you before major dose changes.
- Can you take Citalopram with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Citalopram interacts with many medicines including other antidepressants, Tramadol, triptans, NSAIDs (bleeding risk), and some antibiotics that affect heart rhythm.
- What are the side effects of Citalopram?
- Common effects include nausea, dry mouth, headache, sweating, sleep changes, yawning, or sexual side effects. Many improve after the first couple of weeks. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Citalopram vs sertraline — which is better?
- Both are SSRIs; response varies by person. Your prescriber chooses based on your health, other medicines, and side-effect profile — not something to switch without advice.
Need personalised advice?
Your local pharmacist or GP surgery can help with questions about your medicines, side effects, and alternatives that may be suitable for you.
Links open the NHS website for finding services. DrugABC does not sell prescription-only medicines or replace clinical care.
Often used with
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