Celexa (Generic Name: citalopram hydrobromide) is a once-daily antidepressant medication primarily used to treat depression or major depressive disorder in adolescents and adults. Its safety has not been established for children.
It may help to relieve common symptoms of depression including disinterest in typical activities, impaired concentration, change in weight or appetite, and insomnia.
Celexa is sometimes used off label to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, or hot flashes that accompany menopause.
How to Use Celexa
Before starting or refilling a Celexa prescription, read the medication guide included with your pills, as it may be updated with new information.
This guide should not replace a conversation with your doctor, who has a holistic view of your medical history, other diagnoses, and other prescriptions. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist before you begin taking the medication.
Dosage for Celexa
As with all medications, follow your Celexa prescription instructions exactly. Celexa is taken orally, with or without food, once daily, in the morning or evening.
Do not drink alcohol while taking this drug.
Capsules are available in 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg dosages.
The optimal dosage varies patient by patient, but should not exceed 40mg daily. If you are over 60 years of age, or have certain health conditions, your doctor may recommend a lower dosage.
Your doctor may incrementally adjust your daily dosage until you experience the best response — that is, until you find the lowest dosage at which you experience the greatest improvement in symptoms without side effects.
During treatment, your doctor should evaluate an adolescent’s height and weight because Celexa can cause changes in appetite. If any problems are found, your doctor may recommend discontinuing treatment.
When discontinuing treatment, or decreasing dosage, patients should work with a doctor to gradually taper the level of medication. Stopping Celexa suddenly can create withdrawal symptoms including dizziness, nausea, anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbance, and electric shock-like sensations.