General information
Citalopram is a drug used to treat depression (antidepressant). It is a frequently prescribed drug, especially for patients with additional affective disorders. It belongs to the group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI).
This means that it inhibits the absorption of serotonin into the cell. As a result, serotonin accumulates more and more in the tissue. As it was developed as early as 1989, its effects and side effects are well known and it is widely used.
Pharmacology
Citalopram is classified in the group of SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). In German one speaks of serontonin reuptake inhibitors. Serotonin is a messenger substance in the brain, which is often referred to as the happiness hormone in everyday life.
A sufficient level of serotonin in the brain raises the mood and reduces anxiety. However, after a certain time after release, the hormone is inactivated by being reabsorbed into the cells. This reabsorption is inhibited by SSRIs so that serotonin can act for longer. Other drugs from the group of SSRIs are: escitalopram, sertraline, paroxetine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine.
Deployment
Citalopram is prescribed as a drug therapy for affective disorders. This includes depression, but also bipolar disorder (occurrence of manic and depressive phases). Citalopram has a mood-lifting effect here.
However, this effect only occurs after a few weeks of regular use. To treat depression, 20 to 60 mg are taken daily. The dosage must be increased slowly to minimize the side effects. Citalopram in higher doses is also used for obsessive-compulsive and panic disorders.
Dosage of Citalopram
Citalopram is used to treat depression and is available in different dosages such as 10mg, 20mg, 30mg and 40mg. For a first-time therapy with citalopram, an initial dose of 10mg per day for the first week is recommended. This allows the patient to get used to the medication, as unpleasant side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea and severe fatigue can often occur.
The recommended daily dose is 20mg and can be increased if necessary. Further changes to the dose depend on the tolerance of the drug. If strong side effects occur, a further dose reduction has to be considered or even another drug has to be taken.
Of course, the patient should also feel an improvement with regard to his complaints. Especially his mood, drive and motivation should be brightened up by treatment. If the patient does not notice any change or if it is a very severe depression, the maximum dose of 40mg per day can be prescribed.
The dose must also be carefully adjusted In older patients and those who suffer from an underlying disease such as a restriction of kidney or liver function, the dose must also be carefully adjusted. They usually receive a maximum dose of 20mg. When discontinuing citalopram, make sure that the dose is gradually reduced. This gradual reduction of the medication is to prevent the occurrence of severe side effects caused by an abrupt discontinuation.
