What is citalopram? Facts on its uses, benefits and side effects

As a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), citalopram helps to restore the balance of serotonin in the brain. It’s thought that low serotonin levels may contribute to depression, and citalopram counters this by boosting these levels.

The effects of citalopram should be seen at least two weeks after starting treatment.

Citalopram is only available on prescription, and comes as tablets or oral drops.

Citalopram comes as 10mg, 20mg and 40mg tablets, and also as 40mg/ml oral drops.

The usual starting dose for an adult is 20mg a day, although you may start at a lower dose and gradually increase to the maximum dose of 40mg. If you are over 65 or have liver problems, 20mg is the maximum recommended dose.

Dosage can vary from person to person, and your GP will prescribe you with the dose that will best alleviate your symptoms or condition.

Take citalopram once a day. You can take it with or without food.

Citalopram can be taken at any time of the day. Just make sure you stick to the same time every day. If you’re having trouble sleeping, it’s best to take it in the morning.

Do not crush, break or chew the tablets - take them whole with a glass of water. If you were prescribed Citalopram oral drops, you should mix them with water, orange juice, or apple juice before taking.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as possible unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses together. 

As an SSRI, citalopram has fewer unwanted effects than older antidepressants. However, it’s still possible for some people to experience side effects.

Common side effects include:

If you have any of the following serious side effects, call your GP immediately:

Many of you might be wondering about a link between citalopram and weight gain. Currently, there’s no evidence that citalopram causes weight gain. If you’re worried about a sudden change in your weight while on citalopram, see your GP.

If you have been prescribed citalopram, do not take:

A full list of interactions with citalopram can be found here.

If you have recently taken or are taking any other medication before starting your citalopram course, let your GP or pharmacist know as soon as possible.

There are some instances where it may not be safe to take citalopram.

Speak to your GP if you:

Your GP will weigh up the situation and suggest treatment that best meets your situation.

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s generally advised against taking citalopram.

Citalopram is passed to a baby through breastmilk, meaning it’s possible for the child to suffer side effects (including withdrawal symptoms).

If you’ve been prescribed citalopram despite being pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s because your doctor feels the benefits outweigh the risks. If you have any concerns about taking citalopram, speak to your GP, pharmacist or midwife.

If you are taking citalopram, you can drink alcohol in moderation. However, you may find that alcohol can make you a bit sleepier and might cause you to lose focus, so it’s advised to stay clear of alcohol during the first few weeks of your course.

Consult with your GP or pharmacist if you intend to drink while on citalopram.

Citalopram has minor or moderate impact on your capacity to drive and use machines, it can reduce the ability to make judgements and to react to emergencies.

Make sure you speak to your GP or pharmacist if you work or lifestyle requires you to drive or operate machines. Please see the DVLA website for more information.

Before taking citalopram, speak to your GP if your job or lifestyle requires you to drive or operate machinery.

Despite the similar-sounding names, and despite the fact they’re both used to treat depression, citalopram and escitalopram are different medicines.

Citalopram doses are double the strength of escitalopram doses, and both medicines can cause different side effects.