Depression and Anxiety Disorder
Depression is a common mental health problem that can affect how a person thinks, feels, and functions in their daily life. Causes of depression can be many, starting from social problems, health problems, and financial issues in life faced by an individual. Symptoms may range from brief periods of sadness to long-term, persistent conditions.
Anxiety disorders are a widely impacting mental health issue that can often arise due to depression or vice versa. The widely observed symptoms of anxiety disorders include restlessness, rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, and avoidance behaviours. Causes of anxiety disorder can involve genetics, environmental factors, brain chemistry, and medical conditions suffered by an individual.
The common types of anxiety disorders include the following:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Panic Disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Separation Anxiety Disorder
- Specific Phobias
- Selective Mutism
How do Citalopram 40 mg tablets work?
Drugs falling under the category of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely used to treat symptoms of depression. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter and hormone that carries signals between nerve cells in the brain and throughout the body. This neurotransmitter regulates mood, feelings, sleep, and appetite, and to some extent, body temperature.
Citalopram 40 mg tablets increase serotonergic transmission by inhibiting serotonin reuptake. Clinical research has shown that among the different SSRIs used, Citalopram appears to be the most effective for serotonin reuptake inhibition. The serotonin released by our brains does not remain intact; it is reabsorbed by brain cells. As a result, a person in depression might fail to acquire positive feelings, and gradually their anxiety might increase.
Upon taking Citalopram 40 mg tablets, the reabsorption or reuptake of serotonin by the brain is blocked. This allows more serotonin to remain active in between the nerve cells.
Side Effects of Citalopram 40 mg tablets
Citalopram 40 mg tablets can impose both minor and severe side effects. The common side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Physical Fatigue
- Dry Mouth
- Trouble Sleeping
- Sexual problems include low libido, erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation.
The severe side effects of Citalopram tablets can be experienced in the following manner:
- Respiratory tract infections cause severe breathing problems.
- Cardiac problems involving fast or irregular heartbeats.
- Skin problems involving rash, itching, and blisters on the face and limbs.
- Unusual bleeding and bruising
- Muscle twitching and seizures
- Cognitive disorientation involves problems with decision-making, concentration, and memory, and, in extreme cases, loss of consciousness.
Precautions of Citalopram 40 mg tablets
Mood fluctuations after taking Citalopram 40 mg tablets are a common side effect, especially in young adults. However, taking the proper dose and following the treatment plan can help reduce side effects or prevent serious effects. Here are some precautions that you can take:
- Avoid the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, narcotics, and other drugs.
- Monitor any abnormal bleeding in the early stages and report it to your doctor immediately.
- Monitor any irregular heartbeats and report them to your doctor immediately.
- Consult your doctor if you have diabetes or glaucoma, kidney and liver issues, epilepsy, and other nerve diseases.
- Consult before using if you have recently undergone any surgery.
- Do not increase or decrease doses or suddenly stop using without consulting your doctor, as withdrawal can impose severe side effects.
- Monitor mood swings, and if they worsen, report to your doctor immediately.
Citalopram 40 mg tablets: Food, Drinks, Other Drugs
Citalopram 40 mg tablets can be taken with or without food and water. This medicine is prescribed for daily or regular use and should be taken under proper medical supervision. Avoid grinding, crushing, or breaking the tablet, and take it whole or as directed by your doctor.
Consult your doctor before taking Citalopram tablets if you are taking any of the following drugs:
- MAO Inhibitors (MAOIs): (e.g., phenelzine, selegiline)
- Heart Rhythm Medicines
- NSAIDs
- Blood thinners
- Certain migraine, heart, or opioid medications
- Other antidepressants
What to do after a missed dose or an overdose?
If you or someone you know has taken Citalopram tablets in excess of the prescribed dose, seek medical attention immediately or contact a local Poison Centre.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this may increase the risk of overdose. Taking two doses too close together or taking a dose near bedtime may cause difficulty sleeping.
Disclaimer
All information and usage guidelines related to Citalopram 40 mg tablets are provided for informational purposes only. They do not replace professional medical advice and should be followed only with a valid prescription from a qualified doctor. This medication is not a substitute for your current treatment unless specifically prescribed. Always consult your healthcare professional before starting, during, and after taking this medicine.
