Citalopram

About citalopram

Certain chemicals in our brain control how we feel. It is thought that low levels of a chemical called serotonin can lead to depression and other conditions. Citalopram works by helping to regulate serotonin levels in our body, easing the symptoms of depression and feelings of panic.

Before taking citalopram

Before taking citalopram make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from heart, liver or kidney problems.
• If you are under 18 years of age.
• If you suffer from epilepsy, diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes), glaucoma (increased eye pressure) or a bleeding disorder.
• If you have suffered from mania (great excitement, hallucinations, difficulty in concentrating or staying still).
• If you are being treated with ECT (electroconvulsive therapy).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant within the last two weeks.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take citalopram

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take citalopram exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow citalopram tablets whole, with a drink of water.
• Take citalopram drops in a drink of water, orange juice or apple juice. Count the required number of drops into your drink, stir it briefly and then drink all of it.
• Try to take citalopram at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses. If you do miss a days dose, don't worry just take the next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses together.
• You may have to take citalopram for several weeks before you feel the full effect.
• Do not stop taking citalopram without speaking to your doctor first. Your doctor will want to reduce your dose gradually as stopping suddenly can cause problems.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside citalopram.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor.
• Citalopram may slow your reactions. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving or doing any other tasks that would be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
• It is sensible to avoid drinking alcohol whist receiving citalopram.
• Citalopram may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it usually is. Avoid sunbeds and try to avoid sunlight or use a suncream higher than factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.

Can citalopram cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store citalopram

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• If you have been given citalopram drops, after opening a bottle you can use it for up to16 weeks. After this time you must get a further supply from your doctor.

Important information about all medicines