Citalopram

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Joseph Blais, Pharmacist

Last updated on July 16, 2019.

Overview | Dosage | Side Effects | Where To Buy

GENERIC NAME: Citalopram

CHINESE NAME: 西酞普蘭

COMMON BRANDS IN HONG KONG: Arpolax, Cipram, Selon, Talam

What is Citalopram for?

Citalopram belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Sertraline. SSRIs are antidepressants which work by allowing a type of chemicals, serotonin, to stay longer in the brain in order to boost mood. Citalopram is commonly indicated for depression, anxiety, depressive phase of bipolar disorder and panic disorder.

How to use it?

Citalopram can be taken by mouth in conventional tablets. It often takes a few weeks to see noticeable improvement in your symptoms. Do not stop Citalopram abruptly since a withdrawal syndrome can occur. It is important for you to check for drug interactions with citalopram with your doctor or pharmacist. People older than 60 years of age, with liver problems, or taking certain medications which raise Citalopram blood levels, should limit their dose to 20 mg per day.

The usual starting dose of Citalopram is 10-20 mg per day. The dose may be increased gradually by your doctor based on your response.

What are the side effects of Citalopram?

The most common side effects of Citalopram include excessive sweating, nausea and vomiting, headache, insomnia, ejaculation disorders.

Where to buy Citalopram in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Citalopram is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at http://www.drugoffice.gov.hk

For detailed information about the use of Citalopram in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.