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Non-Opioid Pain Medicines

Citalopram

(CeleXA®, Generic) tablets

Citalopram is an anti-depressant that belongs to a class of medications called “SSRIs” (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors). Citalopram can help improve your sleep, mood, energy levels, appetite, and restore your interest in daily living. It may decrease fear, anxiety and unwanted thoughts. It works by helping to restore the balance of a natural substance called serotonin in the brain.

How do I take this medicine?

  • You should take Citalopram on a regular schedule, (at the same time every day), according to your prescription. You may need to take it for a month or more being starting to feel better.

  • You can take this medicine with or without food, with water or another beverage.

  • Continue taking your Escitalopram, even if you feel well. Medications such as Escitalopram work in the background to improve your mood and overall well-being. Discontinuing this medication abruptly may cause withdrawal. If you need to stop the medication, your doctor will help you gradually lower the dose to come off of it safely

  • If you forget to take this medicine: Take the medication as soon as you realize that you have missed the dose. If it is close to the time that your next dose is due, skip the missed dose.

What are the side effects?

Nausea and stomach upset are common when first starting or increasing the dose of an anti-depressant. These side effects usually improve after a few weeks. Other side effects may last longer. Talk to your doctor if these side effects are bothersome to you.

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  • Nausea, stomach upset, or low appetite

  • Diarrhea or constipation

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Dizziness

  • Tiredness or weakness

  • Weight gain

  • Change in sexual function

  • Dry mouth

  • An abnormal heart rhythm called a prolonged QT interval

  • Anxiety

  • Suicidal thoughts

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Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any severe or unusual symptom.

How can I be safe when taking this medicine?

  • Follow the prescription instructions. Ask your care team if you have any questions about the instructions. Do not take a higher dose or take it more often than prescribed.

  • Avoid driving until you have a good sense of how this medication affects you.

  • Caution drinking alcohol as you may be more sensitive to its effects

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