Citalopram – Established SSRI antidepressant for depression and anxiety.
Get expert medical advice and same-day prescriptions from qualified UK doctors through our secure online consultation platform.
- Professional online consultation and prescription
- Same-day service when clinically appropriate
- Secure delivery to your chosen pharmacy
Secure Telehealth Platform Trusted by Over 150,000 Patients
What is Citalopram?
Citalopram is a well-established SSRI antidepressant that has been widely used for treating depression and anxiety disorders. While newer SSRIs like escitalopram are available, citalopram remains an effective and commonly prescribed option for mental health conditions.
Book an online consultation to discuss your mental health concerns confidentially with a qualified GP. Our doctors provide expert care and can prescribe appropriate treatment when clinically indicated. Remember that seeking help for mental health shows courage and is an important step toward feeling better.
What is Citalopram used for?
- Major depressive disorder
- Generalised anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
How does Citalopram work?
A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that increases serotonin levels in the brain by blocking its reuptake, helping to improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Starting dose 20mg daily, may be increased to 40mg daily. Maximum 40mg daily (20mg for over 65s).
Children
Not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years.
Important Notes
- Take at the same time each day, morning or evening.
- Can be taken with or without food.
- May take 4-6 weeks to feel full benefits.
- Do not stop suddenly—gradual dose reduction required.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Nausea and stomach upset
- Dry mouth
- Increased sweating
- Tremor or shaking
- Sleep disturbances
- Sexual side effects
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (especially when starting)
- Serotonin syndrome (confusion, rapid heart rate, fever)
- Heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation)
- Severe bleeding problems
- Low sodium levels (hyponatraemia)
- Severe allergic reactions
Important Warnings
- May initially increase thoughts of self-harm, especially in young adults—close monitoring required.
- Do not stop suddenly—risk of withdrawal symptoms.
- May affect heart rhythm—ECG monitoring needed for doses above 20mg or in at-risk patients.
- Tell your GP if you have heart problems, epilepsy, or bleeding disorders.
- Lower maximum dose (20mg) recommended for patients over 65 years.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- MAOIs—dangerous interaction, must avoid completely.
- Other antidepressants—risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Warfarin and blood thinners—increased bleeding risk.
- Tramadol and some painkillers—risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Medications affecting heart rhythm—increased risk of arrhythmias.
- St John's Wort—avoid this herbal supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Citalopram different from newer SSRIs like Escitalopram?
Escitalopram is actually the active part of Citalopram, often with fewer side effects. Citalopram is older but still very effective for many people.
Why is there a lower dose limit for older adults?
Older adults are more sensitive to heart rhythm effects and other side effects, so the maximum dose is reduced to 20mg daily for safety.
What are withdrawal symptoms like?
These can include dizziness, flu-like symptoms, and 'brain zaps'. Your GP will help you reduce the dose gradually to minimize these effects.
Will Citalopram help with physical anxiety symptoms?
SSRIs primarily help with the psychological aspects of anxiety. For physical symptoms like rapid heart rate, your GP might also consider a beta-blocker.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14