Citalo – Patient Information Leaflet
Depression is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people globally. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. Depression can greatly impact one’s quality of life and ability to function. Fortunately, there are effective medical treatments available, including antidepressant medications like citalopram.
Citalo is an antidepressant medication containing the active ingredient citalopram. Citalopram belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs work by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood.
Citalo comes in two forms as a tablet and an oral solution. The tablet form contains 20mg of citalopram per tablet as citalopram hydrobromide. The oral solution contains 10mg of citalopram per 5mL.
Indications
Citalo is commonly prescribed for three main indications or uses:
1. Treatment of depression Citalo is frequently used as a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder. It helps relieve depressive symptoms like sadness, lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of suicide.
2. Prevention of relapse or recurrence of depression For those with chronic or recurrent major depression, long-term Citalo treatment may prevent depressive episodes from returning.
3. Treatment of anxiety disorders Citalo is also FDA-approved for treating panic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Like depression, these conditions are related to insufficient serotonin.
Dosage
The recommended dosing for Citalo depends on the condition being treated. For major depression, the starting dose is typically 20mg taken orally once per day. The dose may be increased in increments of 20mg up to a maximum of 40mg daily if needed to achieve symptom relief. Lower doses are advised for elderly patients and those with liver problems or kidney impairment.
When used for panic disorder, an initial dose of 10mg daily for the first week is recommended before increasing to 20mg. The dose can go up to 40mg daily if required for maintenance of response. Again, extended treatment is often necessary to prevent recurrence of panic attacks.
Precautions
Citalo should not be used in combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), another class of antidepressants, due to potential serious reactions. A washout period when switching between MAOIs and Citalo is required. Those with hypersensitivity or allergy to citalopram should avoid Citalo.
Use in pregnant or breastfeeding women should be a careful risk-benefit decision with the prescribing doctor. There is limited data on safety for the fetus or infant.
Side effects
Citalo may cause side effects like nausea, dry mouth, tremor or drowsiness. These are often mild and transient, but can impact concentration and ability to drive or operate machinery until the body adjusts to the medication.
Rarely, Citalo may also cause changes in heart rhythm, especially in those prone to electrolyte imbalances or heart conditions. This is why regular monitoring with electrocardiograms (ECGs) may be necessary for certain higher-risk patients. Immediate medical attention should be sought if abnormal heart rhythms are experienced.
Abruptly stopping Citalo treatment is not advised, as withdrawal symptoms can occur. Dose tapering under medical supervision is recommended. The dose should also not be altered or treatment discontinued without consulting a healthcare provider first.
Drug Interactions
Possible drug interactions with Citalo include:
Lithium Citalo may increase lithium levels, so caution is advised.
Other serotonergic drugs Concomitant use may increase risk of serotonin syndrome.
CYP2C19 inhibitors like cimetidine Can inhibit citalopram metabolism, raising its levels.
Conclusion
In summary, Citalo (citalopram) is an antidepressant drug used for treating major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and preventing relapse of depression. The typical dosage is 20-40mg daily taken as a tablet or oral solution. Citalo works by correcting serotonin deficiencies implicated in these psychiatric conditions. While generally well-tolerated, Citalo may cause side effects or interactions necessitating close medical monitoring and guidance. Used properly under medical supervision, Citalo can help restore mood, productivity, and quality of life for many patients with depression or anxiety.
