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Celexa (citalopram) is an antidepressant used to treat a range of psychiatric disorders. It is in the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) class of drugs, one of the most widely-used class of antidepressants in the world, and generally considered safer and more effective than traditional antidepressants.

This medication is known by quite a few other brand names, including Cipramil, Celapram, Ciprapine, Talam, Zetalo, and many others.

What to Expect from Celexa

Celexa comes in tablets, which are typically taken once per day. Some patients may start feeling effects a few days after starting treatment, but it takes about 4 weeks for full benefits to be seen. The medication is helpful in alleviating symptoms in a wide range of mental conditions:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive–compulsive disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Body dysmorphic disorder
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Agoraphobia

The medication sees the most use in depression and anxiety; it is not always the first choice in other conditions. In all cases it may be used alone or in combination with other treatments designed to address the same condition.

Treatment may vary to some extent depending on age, the condition being treated, other medications being taken, other medical conditions, and numerous other personal variables. In otherwise healthy adults treatment is typically as follows:

• Start with 20 mg per day for 1 to 4 weeks.
• If symptoms are not sufficiently alleviated, dosage may be increased to 40 mg per day.
• Do not exceed 40 mg per day.
• Tablets may be taken with or without food according to personal preference. Taking with food may ease nausea, if experienced.

Treatment may continue for as long as it provides benefit and no complications develop. If treatment does end, it should be gradually tapered off over a few weeks; stopping abruptly can produce disruptive withdrawal symptoms.

Warnings & Side Effects

Most people who take Celexa experience only mild side effects, and these often stop occurring in the first few weeks of treatment. Most commonly reported are:

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Stomach upset
• Cold-like symptoms
• Sweating
• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty sleeping

As mentioned above these side effects typically stop happening in the first few weeks of treatment. The exception is difficulty sleeping; many patients who experience this side effect find it lingers for the duration of treatment. If it is severe enough to be disruptive, it's worth speaking with a doctor about alternative options; there are a great many alternatives available that may produce fewer side effects in an individual.

Certain medical conditions increase the likelihood that side effects will be experienced, and the severity of them, which can be dangerous. Discuss risks with a doctor before taking Celexa if there is a history of:

• Seizures
• Any heart conditions
• Bleeding or clotting problems
• Glaucoma
• Bipolar disorder

This medication can interact with other medications---including those of the over-the-counter variety and recreational drugs---and can cause potentially fatal interactions. Of greatest concern are any drugs that suppress or slow breathing, such as opiod painkillers, and any drugs that cause sleepiness, such as sleeping pills or muscle relaxers. Taking other antidepressants also poses a serious risk. Always check with a doctor or pharmacist before mixing medications while taking Celexa, or any SSRI.

Celexa is known to be harmful to unborn or nursing babies and should be avoided if pregnant or breastfeeding.