Citalopram Dosage: Simple Guide for Safe and Effective Use

If you’ve been prescribed citalopram, you probably wonder how much to take and when. Citalopram is an SSRI antidepressant that helps lift mood and ease anxiety. The right dose depends on why you’re taking it, your age, and any health issues you have.

Typical Starting Dose and How It Grows

Doctors usually start adults at 20 mg once a day, taken with or without food. Some people begin at 10 mg if they’re sensitive to side effects. After a week or two, the doctor may bump the dose up to 40 mg if symptoms haven’t improved. The maximum approved dose in most places is 40 mg per day, but some countries limit it to 20 mg for older adults.

For teenagers (13‑17 years), the usual start is 10 mg daily, with a possible increase to 20 mg after a few weeks. Always follow the exact plan your doctor gave you – jumping straight to a higher dose can cause dizziness, nausea, or heart rhythm changes.

Special Situations: Elderly, Liver Issues, and Interactions

If you’re 60 or older, doctors often keep the dose at 20 mg or less. Older bodies process the drug slower, so a lower dose reduces the risk of QT‑interval prolongation, a heart rhythm problem. People with liver disease may also need a reduced dose because the liver clears citalopram.

Watch out for medicines that affect the same enzymes, like certain antibiotics, antifungals, or other antidepressants. Those can raise citalopram levels and increase side‑effects. Always tell your pharmacist about every pill you take.

When it’s time to take your dose, morning or night works for most folks. Some find the drug makes them sleepy, so taking it in the evening helps. If it makes you restless, switch to the morning. Consistency is key – try to take it at the same time each day.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one. In that case, skip the missed pill and continue with your regular schedule. Don’t double‑up; that can cause jittery feelings or a rapid heartbeat.

Side effects usually ease after the first two weeks. Common ones include mild nausea, dry mouth, or a slight headache. If you notice severe symptoms like fast heartbeats, fainting, or thoughts of self‑harm, call your doctor right away.

Never stop citalopram abruptly. The brain adjusts to the medicine, and quitting suddenly can trigger withdrawal – things like brain fog, irritability, or tingling. If you need to stop, your doctor will taper you down over a few weeks.

In summary, start low, move up slowly, and stay in touch with your prescriber. Keep track of how you feel, note any side effects, and report them. With the right dose, citalopram can help you feel steadier and brighter.