Celexa (Citalopram) Dosage Guide

Celexa Delivery Methods

Celexa forms and strengths are varied. While generic citalopram is offered as an oral solution, capsule, and an orally disintegrating tablet, Celexa is exclusively provided as a tablet. Celexa comes in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg tablets. For adults under 60 years old, the usual dose is 20 mg per day with a maximum of 40 mg per day. For people over 60, the maximum dose is 20 mg per day. The prescriber may choose a dosage of Celexa and form over another based on age and efficacy.

To get the most benefit from this medication and to improve your health, only take it as prescribed by your doctor. The dosage of this medication will vary depending on the patient. Observe your doctor’s instructions or the label’s instructions. You can take Celexa with or without food. Follow your doctor’s instructions if they specify a certain time for you to take it.

Celexa Dosages for FDA-Approved Treatment

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the US Government reviews and approves medications as treatments for many health conditions. This means that the benefits of a medication outweigh the potential risks. As an FDA-approved medication, Celexa dosages vary by the disorder and the individuals taking them.

Celexa Dosage for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

The FDA has authorized a dosage of Celexa to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). ³ The first two weeks may see some improvement in sleep, energy, or appetite. These physical depression symptoms becoming better can be a crucial early sign that the drug is working. It may take 6 to 8 weeks for a depressed mood and lack of interest in activities to improve completely. Celexa is typically taken once daily for depression treatment. You can take it any time, but it is better to stick to the same time every day.

Celexa dosages for depression in adults include:

• Typical starting dosage: 20 mg once daily.
• Dosage increases: After at least a week, the dosage may be increased to 40 mg once daily.
• Maximum dosage: 40 mg once daily.

Celexa Dosage for Non-FDA-Approved (Off-Label) Uses

In addition to its FDA-approved uses, prescribers may use Celexa as an off-label treatment for various conditions.⁴
Possible off-label uses for Celexa may include:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Panic disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Alcoholism

If you are interested in using Celexa for off-label use, you should talk with your health care professional. They can help to determine if it is safe for you to use Celexa and what dose of Celexa you should take.

Celexa Dosing Considerations

Inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history before using this drug, especially if you have or have had glaucoma; liver disease; seizures; low sodium levels in the blood; bleeding issues; or a personal or family history of bipolar/manic-depressive disorder. ⁵ Angle-closure glaucoma, a disease that develops when iris bulges obstruct the drainage angle, is one of the effects of alcohol and Celexa.

Conditions that may require a different medication than Celexa or require close monitoring include:

• Bipolar disorder: Celexa is not recommended for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Long-term use can aggravate manic symptoms.
• Kidney problems: If you have kidney disease, discuss Celexa use with your doctor before starting. This medication may accumulate in those with severe kidney illness and have greater negative effects.
• Bleeding problems: Before taking Celexa, talk to your doctor if you have bleeding issues. According to certain research, SSRIs may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Heart problems: It is best to speak with your doctor before taking Celexa if you have cardiac issues. The electrical activity of the heart may be altered fatally by this medication.
• Glaucoma: If you have glaucoma, an eye ailment, Celexa may worsen the pressure within your eye, potentially impairing your vision.
• Seizures: Celexa may raise the chance of seizures.

Can You Overdose on Celexa?

The symptoms are typically not severe. However, you should call the poison hotline (1-800-222-1222) or go to a hospital if you take too much Celexa. An overdose of Celexa can cause severe symptoms, such as an irregular heart rate and seizures.

What if I Miss a Dose of Celexa?

You should not stop taking Celexa suddenly. Talk with your health care professional if you would like to stop taking your medication as they can help you taper to reduce the chance of any side effects with antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome can result in muscle aches and mood swings, which might lead to a return of depression, hence the necessity for this cautious taper.⁶

Prescribers may occasionally advise patients to discontinue the drugs if negative effects like decreased arousal or loss of sexual desire outweigh the therapeutic benefits. Besides these factors, your physician would advise you to continue taking the medications even after your symptoms improve. This form of therapy, known as continuation therapy, is essential for stopping the recurrence of depressive symptoms.

Questions to Ask Your Health Team

Discuss the risks and advantages of the drugs with your doctor before beginning treatment. You can inquire with your doctor about Celexa’s suitability for treating your disease or the drug’s potential adverse effects. Questions to ask your care team about Celexa dosages include:

• Is it safe to take Celexa with my other medications?
• Will Celexa be covered by my insurance?
• Does my medical history indicate a need to adjust my dosage?
• How long will it take before my symptoms improve?
• Should I let my therapist know I am taking this medication?
• What should I do if I want to stop taking Celexa?

In My Experience

In my experience, Celexa’s side effects, including suicidal thoughts, serotonin syndrome, and sleep issues, can range from mild to severe. As a result, patients should use this drug carefully and under the guidance of a clinician. To reduce the hazards of Celexa interactions and other antidepressants, this antidepressant shouldn’t be taken with other SSRIs or SNRIs. Consult with your therapist if you require more help while taking Celexa.

For Further Reading

• How to Get a Celexa (Citalopram) Prescription: Everything You Need to Know
• Celexa (Citalopram) Withdrawal: Symptoms, Duration, & How to Cope
• Citalopram (Celexa) Side Effects: Rare, Common, & Severe
• Does Celexa Cause Weight Gain? Everything You Need to Know
• Celexa & Alcohol: Understanding the Risks
• Trintellix Dosage: Strengths, Form, How to Take, & More