Citalopram: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions

# Overview of Citalopram Citalopram is a medicine used to treat depression in adults. It works by helping balance chemicals in the brain called serotonin, which affect mood and emotions. When serotonin levels are low, people may feel sad, tired, or lose interest in things they normally enjoy. Citalopram can help improve these symptoms over time, but it usually takes a few weeks to start working. A doctor will prescribe the right dose based on each person's needs. While citalopram is helpful for many people, there are important safety rules to follow when taking it. You should never take citalopram if you're already taking certain other medications, especially drugs called MAOIs, because combining them can be dangerous and cause serious side effects. It's very important to tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and vitamins you're taking before starting citalopram. Some people may experience side effects like nausea, headaches, or sleep problems at first, but these often go away as your body gets used to the medicine. Always take citalopram exactly as your doctor tells you and talk to them if you have any concerns or problems while taking it.