Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide)

For 15 years now, the antidepressant Celexa has been an FDA approved choice for treating those with chronic depression. Also, doctors may prescribe Celexa for anxiety. Celexa is actually a brand name; the actual drug name is citalopram hydrobromide (generic name for Celexa). So what is citalopram hydrobromide and what are its uses? Let's take a closer look at how this drug works.

Citalopram is an SSRI, which means that it affects serotonin levels. It is also categorized in the same category as drugs like Zoloft and Prozac. Serotonin is a neurotransmitting chemical which allows for communication within the brain. An imbalance in these neurotransmitter chemicals in the brain is postulated to be responsible for mental conditions, like depression. This drug reduces the uptake of serotonin, thus there is more free serotonin available in the brain for transmitting signals.

What is Celexa (citalopram HBr) Used for?

The medication is prescribed for a number of different reasons ranging from depression to anxiety. It has also been used to treat individuals who have obsessive compulsive disorder or post traumatic stress disorder.

The smallest dose tablets begin at 10mg. For those who do not find this dose sufficient, it can be upgraded to 20mg or even doubled again to 40mg, however studies have revealed that increasing the dose from 40mg to 60mg does not seem to make a discernible difference.

Usually people who take citalopram take it in either the morning or the evening since it is a once per day pill. While some may choose to take it with either breakfast or dinner, having a meal along with the pill is not necessary since studies have shown that food does not have an effect on the body's absorption of citalopram.

Are there any side effects to the drug?

The main side effects are sexually related. The user may have difficulty become aroused, or may just no longer find themselves interested in sex. Usually, these and other sexual side effects will go away when a person is off the drug. On rare occasions the effects become permanent. See also Celexa side effects, Celexa and weight gain.

Also, increasing serotonin levels decreases the amount of dopamine in a person’s brain chemistry. This may cause a person to be become emotionally toned down and apathetic. Other side effects are noted in the documentation that’s received along with the medication.

When a person is taking Celexa for anxiety or other conditions they should be sure to avoid taking a MAO inhibitor. There needs to be at least a two week break from MAO inhibitors before starting on an SSRI.