What are the main side effects of citalopram?

Citalopram is a commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of depression and anxiety. While citalopram can be an effective treatment option for many people, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects. Here are some of the main side effects of citalopram, based on studies and research.

Nausea

One of the most common side effects of citalopram is nausea. Research has shown that approximately 20-30% of people taking citalopram experience nausea as a side effect. The good news is that this side effect is typically mild and goes away on its own within a few weeks of starting the medication.

Dry mouth

Dry mouth is another common side effect of citalopram, affecting approximately 10-20% of people taking the medication. Dry mouth can be uncomfortable, but it is usually not a serious side effect. Drinking plenty of water and chewing sugarless gum can help alleviate this side effect.

Dizziness

Dizziness is a less common but still notable side effect of citalopram. Research has shown that approximately 10-15% of people taking citalopram experience dizziness as a side effect. Dizziness can be a sign of low blood pressure, so it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience this side effect.

Headache

Headache is another potential side effect of citalopram, affecting approximately 10-15% of people taking the medication. In most cases, headaches caused by citalopram are mild and go away on their own within a few weeks of starting the medication.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a less common but still possible side effect of citalopram. Research has shown that approximately 5-10% of people taking citalopram experience fatigue as a side effect. Fatigue can be a sign of low blood pressure or other underlying health issues, so it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience this side effect.

Conclusion

In conclusion, citalopram is a medication that can be an effective treatment option for depression and anxiety. However, like all medications, citalopram can cause side effects. The most common side effects of citalopram include nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, and fatigue. It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any of these side effects, as they may be a sign of underlying health issues or may require a change in medication dosage or type.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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