Citalopram (Celexa)

What the word means

Citalopram is the drug. Celexa is the brand.

It’s an SSRI used mainly for depression. Its close relative is escitalopram, and the two are easy to confuse, because escitalopram is essentially the more refined version of the same molecule. That family resemblance is exactly why people sometimes think they’ve been switched to a new medication when they’ve been moved to its near twin.

One practical detail that comes up more with citalopram than with most SSRIs is that its dosing has an upper ceiling tied to a heart rhythm concern, which is why a prescriber may be careful about raising it.

Where to read the full guide

Shrinktionary is the language layer. It defines the word and hands you off.

Read the full citalopram guide at PsychiatryRx, which covers uses, dosing considerations, side effects, and stopping safely.

Related terms you’ll see next

• SSRI
• Escitalopram
• Antidepressant
• Discontinuation syndrome

When to seek professional care

Don’t raise the dose on your own, since the ceiling on this one exists for a reason. Don’t stop it abruptly. Tell your prescriber about new agitation, worsening mood, or thoughts of self-harm after starting or changing the dose. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, get help right away by calling 911, or call or text 988 in the US to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

<blockquote>
  <p><strong>Citalopram (Celexa):</strong> Citalopram is an SSRI antidepressant, sold as Celexa, used mainly for depression. It's closely related to escitalopram, which is a frequent source of mix-ups.</p>
  <p>&mdash; <a href="https://shrinktionary.com/terms/citalopram/">Shrinktionary</a>, a plain-English mental health dictionary, medically reviewed by a board certified psychiatrist.</p>
</blockquote>