Precautions and Warnings With Citalopram

There are a number of important precautions and warnings with citalopram to be aware of, including serious side effects to look out for. Citalopram may potentially cause gastrointestinal bleeding, suicidal thoughts or behavior, or seizures in some people. Do not take citalopram if you are allergic to any components of the medicine, have taken an MAOI within the past two weeks, or are currently taking pimozide.

Citalopram Hydrobromide

Citalopram: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk to your healthcare provider prior to taking

citalopram hydrobromide (Celexa^®) if you have:

Bipolar disorder or a family history of bipolar disorder (manic depression)
A history of suicide attempts or suicidal thoughts
Had a recent heart attack or have unstable heart disease
Congestive heart failure (CHF)
Low blood potassium (hypokalemia)
Low blood magnesium (hypomagnesemia)
Long QT syndrome
Seizures or epilepsy
Liver disease, including liver failure or cirrhosis
Kidney problems, including kidney failure (renal failure)
Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.

Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:

Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
Breastfeeding.

Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you may be taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

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