Celexa (Citalopram) for Anxiety and Depression: Your Complete Guide

If you've been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder or depression, medication can be an effective part of your treatment plan. Celexa (citalopram) is one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants, and many patients at our Lilburn practice have found relief with this medication. Here's what you should know.

What Is Celexa and How Does It Work?

Celexa is the brand name for citalopram, an antidepressant first approved in 1998. It belongs to a class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medications work by preventing your brain from reabsorbing serotonin, the chemical messenger responsible for mood regulation. With more serotonin available, your mood becomes more stable, and anxiety symptoms often decrease.

Conditions Celexa Treats

Celexa is FDA-approved for treating depression, but psychiatrists often prescribe it "off-label" for other conditions based on clinical evidence:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Social anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

How Long Does Celexa Take to Work?

Most people begin noticing effects within 2-4 weeks, though it can take up to 12 weeks to feel the full benefits. We recommend tracking your mood and symptoms as you start the medication—simply jotting down how you feel each day helps both you and your provider assess your progress.

Consistency is crucial with antidepressants. Even if you don't notice immediate changes, your brain is adapting to the medication. Don't stop taking Celexa without consulting your psychiatrist, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms.

Potential Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and often improve within a few weeks:

• Nausea (usually temporary)
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Headaches
• Sweating
• Sexual dysfunction

More serious side effects are rare but should be reported immediately to your provider. These include irregular heartbeat, severe allergic reactions, and changes in mood or behavior.

How Celexa Compares to Other Medications

Celexa is one of several SSRI options available. Other common choices include Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), and Lexapro (escitalopram). Each medication has slightly different side effect profiles and may work better for different individuals. At Next Step Psychiatry, we work with you to find the right medication match.

This article is for educational purposes only. Never start, stop, or change medications without consulting your healthcare provider. If you experience thoughts of self-harm, call 988 or visit your nearest emergency room.