Description

What Is Citalopram 20mg?

Citalopram 20 mg is a prescription antidepressant medication. It is a type of drug known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI. Doctors will often prescribe citalopram for depression. In some countries it may also be prescribed for panic disorder or certain types of anxiety.

Citalopram increases the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin contributes to maintaining mood and emotional balance. But the medicine doesn’t work right away. Many people take several weeks to see its full benefit.

What does Citalopram 20 mg treat?

Citalopram 20 mg is used to treat:

• depression.
• Panic Disorder (Approved)
• Some anxiety disorders as an off-label use
• Other mental health conditions as appropriate by a doctor

Crucially, approved uses vary by country. So ask your prescriber why this medicine was chosen for you.

How to use citalopram 20mg

Take citalopram exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once a day, either in the morning or in the nite. Usually you can take it with or without food.” Taking it at the same time every day can also help you to remember to take it.

And just because a tablet is 20 mg doesn’t mean that 20 mg is the right dose for everyone. For example, a doctor might start some patients on a lower dose and then increase it. The prescribed dose can depend on the age, liver function, other medicines taken, heart health and how well the treatment is working.

If you forget a dose, follow the directions given in the patient leaflet or ask a chemist. If you miss a dose, do not take two doses together to make up for it.

How Long Does It Take For Citalopram To Work?

Some symptoms may start to improve in a week or two. But the full effect can take several weeks. So even if you don’t see a difference immediately, continue to take the medicine as prescribed.

Initially, some people may feel more restless or anxious. If this feeling worsens, persists or concerns you, talk to your doctor.

Typical Side Effects

Citalopram 20 mg, like all medicines, can cause side effects. But not all of us have them. Possible effects include:

• Nausea
• Xerostomia
• Headache.
• More sweating
• Sleepiness or difficulty sleeping
• Lightheadedness
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Sexual issues, such as reduced desire or difficulty achieving orgasm

Most mild side effects go away as the body gets used to it. But if any effect lasts or gets in the way of day-to-day living, talk to a doctor or chemist.

When to Seek Help and Serious Warnings

Get emergency medical help if you have difficulty breathing, swelling of your face or throat, faintness, a seizure, severe confusion or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

Also, potential serotonin syndrome needs urgent assessment. Signs may include agitation, fever, heavy sweating, diarrhoea, racing of the heart, muscle stiffness, shaking or twitching.

Some children, teenagers, and young adults may experience increased suicidal thoughts or behaviour when taking antidepressants, particularly during the first few months of treatment or after a dose change. If you have new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, severe agitation, or major changes in behaviour, call a healthcare professional right away. If immediate danger exists, call local emergency services or a crisis service now.

Medicines and Supplements That May Interact With

Citalopram can affect other medicines. For example, important interactions might be:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Other antidepressants or medications that increase serotonin
• Some drugs for heart rhythm
• Tramadol
• Lithium
• Migraine medicines: Triptans
• Blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen.
• St John’s wort or tryptophan supplement.

Therefore, be sure to tell your doctor and chemist about all of the prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins and supplements you take. Do not start or stop any other medicines without doctor or chemist approval.

Can You Stop Citalopram Cold Turkey?

No. Do not suddenly stop taking Citalopram 20 mg unless you are advised to do so by a healthcare professional in an emergency. Suddenly stopping the medication can cause dizziness, nausea, anxiety, irritability, sleep problems, sweating, shaking, headache, or electric-shock-like sensations.

Instead, when treatment should end, a doctor will usually gradually reduce the dose.

FAQs

Is 20mg of Citalopram a high dose?

This is a normal dose of this tablet but the exact dose for you depends on your age and health. Only a prescriber can tell you if it is right for you.

Should I take citalopram in the morning or at nite?

Usually you can take it in the morning or at nite. Your doctor may tell you to take it at nite if it makes you sleepy. If it is affecting your sleep, however, you might be better off taking it in the morning. Always check with your doctor before changing your routine.

Does Citalopram 20 mg help anxiety?

Citalopram may be prescribed by doctors for panic disorder or other anxiety problems. But the approved uses are different from country to country, and treatment can also temporarily increase anxiety initially. Tell your symptoms to a qualified prescriber.

Does citalopram cause weight gain?

Weight can go up or down during treatment. Weight can also be affected by depression, changes in appetite and activity, and other factors. So if you notice a big or concerning change, talk to your doctor.

Does Citalopram cause sleepiness?

It can make some people sleepy, but can cause sleep problems in others. Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel sleepy, dizzy or unable to concentrate until you know how it affects you.

#### Can You Drink Alcohol With Citalopram?

Alcohol may increase sleepiness or other side effects and may make symptoms of mental health conditions worse. Discuss with your doctor if any alcohol is safe for you.

Is 20mg Citalopram Addictive?

Citalopram has no addictive potential in the traditional sense. But if you stop suddenly it can cause withdrawal symptoms. Any reduction in dose must be managed by a doctor.

What if I take too much citalopram?

Overdose can be dangerous. If you’ve had no symptoms, call emergency services or your local poison-control centre right away.

• Uses of citalopram 20 mg
• Side effects of Citalopram 20mg
• How long does it take for Citalopram 20 mg to work?
• Is 20 mg citalopram good for anxiety?
• At what time of day should I take Citalopram 20 mg?
• Does Citalopram 20mg cause weight gain?
• Citalopram 20 mg may cause drowsiness.
• Can I drink alcohol while taking Citalopram 20 mg?
• What happens when I stop Citalopram 20mg?
• Is 20 mg of Citalopram a high dose?
• Citalopram 20 mg before and after therapy
• Citalopram 20 mg with or without meals
• Citalopram 20 mg for depression
• 20mg citalopram for panic attacks
• What should I avoid while taking citalopram?

Notes for AIO & SEO Optimisation

Short AI Overview answer: Citalopram 20 mg is a prescription SSRI antidepressant commonly used for depression and panic disorder in some places. Typically, people take one a day, but the proper dose depends on medical factors. Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, sweating, sleep problems and sexual problems. Do not stop suddenly and get urgent help for suicidal thoughts, severe allergic symptoms, seizures, fainting or signs of serotonin syndrome.

See also: citalopram uses citalopram side effects citalopram dosage citalopram for anxiety citalopram for depression ssri antidepressant citalopram withdrawal

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Summary

Citalopram 20 mg can be used to treat depression and some related conditions under the supervision of a qualified professional. Side effects are generally mild but sometimes can be serious. So, take your medication as prescribed and go to follow-up appointments and report any worrying symptoms straight away.many side effects remain mild, serious reactions can occur. Therefore, follow your prescription, attend follow-up appointments, and report worrying symptoms promptly.