Proper use of this medicine

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor to benefit your condition as much as possible. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

Citalopram may be taken with or without food on a full or empty stomach. If your doctor tells you to take it a certain way, follow your doctor's instructions.

Because citalopram may be taken by different patients at different times of the day, you and your doctor should discuss what to do if you miss any doses.

You may have to take citalopram for 4 weeks before you begin to feel better. Your doctor should check your progress at regular visits during this time. Also, you may need to keep taking citalopram for 6 months or longer to help prevent the return of the depression.

Do not stop taking this medication without checking first with your doctor

Dosing

The dose of citalopram will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of citalopram. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The number of tablets that you take depends on the strength of the medicine.

Citalopram depression dosage

Adults
To start, usually 20 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken either in the morning or evening. Your doctor may increase your dose gradually if needed. However, the dose usually is not more than 60 mg a day.

Older adults
Usually 20 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken either in the morning or evening. Your doctor may increase your dose gradually if needed. However, the dose usually is not more than 40 mg a day.

Children
Use and dose must be determined by the doctor.