citalopram (Celexa)

Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

The best time of day to take citalopram depends on your individual response to treatment. Citalopram is typically taken once per day, and may be taken in the morning to avoid problems with sleep. However, if you experience sleepiness due to the medication, it may be better to take it at night. It's important to take the medication around the same time every day to keep steady levels of the drug in your body, which helps citalopram treat your condition. Talk with your provider to figure out the best time of day for you to take citalopram.

Changes in weight, including weight gain or weight loss, are possible when taking citalopram. If you're concerned about the weight gain or loss caused by citalopram, talk with your provider to discuss ways to manage this side effect. However, keep in mind that weight changes may be related to your condition.

Citalopram starts to work soon after you begin treatment. However, it may take several weeks before you notice an improvement in your depression symptoms. Talk to your provider if you have further questions about how long citalopram takes to start working.

Yes, citalopram may cause sleepiness when you first start taking it. This may go away once your body becomes used to the medication, but until you know how citalopram affects you, it's recommended not to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks that require alertness. If you experience this side effect with citalopram, it may help to take it at night. Speak with your provider or pharmacist to learn more.

It's possible that citalopram could help with anxiety, and may be used off-label to treat it, though it is not currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for that purpose. “Off-label” use means using a medication for a condition other than its approved uses. In the case that you have anxiety along with depression symptoms, citalopram may be helpful. However, you should know that citalopram can also worsen anxiety symptoms in some people. If you have questions about using citalopram for anxiety, your provider can give you more information.

Common side effects of citalopram include (but are not limited to) dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, trouble sleeping, tiredness, agitation, sexual side effects, diarrhea, sweating, hunger, weakness, sleepiness, weight gain, or weight loss. Discuss citalopram with your pharmacist or provider for more information.

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.