How is Citalopram dosed?
For the treatment of depression in adults, the recommended starting dose of citalopram is 20 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken in the morning or evening. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed, but it is usually not more than 40 mg per day. Children and older adults should have their dose determined by a doctor. Citalopram capsules are available in a single strength of 30 mg, so other dosage forms (such as solution or tablets) should be used for starting treatment and adjusting doses other than 30 mg once a day. It is important to follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label when taking citalopram. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
What is the dosage form of Citalopram?
Citalopram is available in two forms:
- Citalopram capsules: The starting dose for treating depression is 30 milligrams (mg) once a day. The dose may be adjusted as needed by your doctor. It is not recommended for older adults to use citalopram capsules. Children's doses should be determined by a doctor.
- Citalopram solution or tablets: The initial dose for treating depression is 20 mg once a day, taken either in the morning or evening. Your doctor may adjust the dose as needed, but usually not more than 40 mg per day. It is important to follow the instructions provided with the medicine, read the Medication Guide carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
What medications are contraindication with Citalopram?
Citalopram should not be taken with pimozide (Orap) as it can cause serious heart problems. Additionally, citalopram should not be taken with buspirone (Buspar), fentanyl (Abstra, Duragesic), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), methylene blue injection, tryptophan, St. John's wort, amphetamines, or some pain or migraine medicines (e.g., rizatriptan, sumatriptan, tramadol, Frova, Imitrex, Maxalt, Relpax, Ultram, Zomig) as it may cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome. Before taking any other medicines with citalopram, consult your doctor to ensure their safety.
How is Citalopram administered?
Citalopram can be administered orally in several forms, including capsules, solution, and tablets. The specific administration instructions depend on the dosage form prescribed by your doctor. For capsules, the typical starting dose for adults with depression is 30 milligrams (mg) taken once a day. For the solution or tablets, the initial dose for adults with depression is 20 mg, taken either in the morning or evening, and your doctor may adjust the dose as needed, usually not exceeding 40 mg per day. It is essential to follow your doctor's instructions and the dosage information provided on the label when using citalopram.
What are common precautions when taking Citalopram?
When taking citalopram, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions or the directions on the label. The medication can be taken with or without food. If using the oral liquid, shake the bottle well before measuring each dose. Use a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup to measure each dose. Do not change the dose unless instructed by your doctor. Elderly patients may require caution and dose adjustment for hyponatremia. It is recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication as it may cause harmful effects on infants.