What is citalopram and are there any risks?
Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant drug that is widely prescribed for depression and anxiety. It works by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. In the UK it is given in tablet form in doses of 20-60mg for treatment.
Citalopram infusion test during scanning
In some countries (not the UK) citalopram is licensed to be given as an infusion (injection) into a vein in doses of 20-40mg given at a rate of 20mg per hour. We are giving it as an infusion because we need it to get to the brain in a short time. We will be using 7.5mg given over 7.5 minutes, which is faster than used for treatment. The side effects that can occur when given in this way are feeling sick or nauseated, dizzy and light headed. In a previous study we found that these feelings were rare and if they occurred were not severe and passed away quickly. There have been no serious reactions reported when citalopram is given in this way.
Citalopram for the treatment of depression
When citalopram is given as a treatment for depression adverse effects are generally mild and self-limiting. They are strongest during the first one or two weeks of treatment and usually get less as the depression improves. The most commonly observed adverse events associated with citalopram are:
- nausea (feeling sick)
- sleepiness
- dry mouth
- increased sweating
- tremor (shakiness)
If an SSRI like citalopram has been taken for a number of weeks and then is suddenly stopped a ‘withdrawal reaction’ could occur (symptoms like dizziness, tingling in fingers and toes, headache, anxiety and nausea). This is usually non-serious and self-limiting but can normally be avoided if the drug is stopped slowly. If you want to stop citalopram it is important not to suddenly stop it and in any case it is best to discuss it with the research team or your own doctor.
As with any treatment for depression you will not feel better straight away and it commonly takes a few weeks for you to feel much better. This does vary and some people can feel better very quickly and for some people it can take longer. It is also possible that the depression can get worse early in treatment and sometimes the sufferer can start to feel more suicidal. If this happens you should contact a member of the research team or a doctor such as your GP immediately.
When you receive the prescription for citalopram as part of the study you will receive a leaflet about the drug and any possible adverse effects we ask you to read this carefully. We will start treatment with 20mg and increase the dose after 4 weeks to 40mg if your depression isn’t improving.
