Citalopram

Question 1

Another name for Citalopram

Answer 1

Celexa

Question 2

Biggest risk factor of utilizing citalopram

Answer 2

QTC prolongation

Question 3

Maximum therapeutic dosage of Citalopram

Answer 3

40 mg/QD

d/t risk of QT prolongation

Question 4

Citalopram equivalence to Escitalopram

Answer 4

Citalopram 20 mg = Escitalopram 10 mg

Question 5

Which should we choose: Escitalopram or Citalopram

Answer 5

Escitalopram

Citalopram should never be chosen over Escitalopram. You can keep only if veteran has been on it and tolerating it.

Question 6

Initial dose of Citalopram

Answer 6

20 mg

Question 7

Therapeutic dosage of Citalopram

Answer 7

20 - 40 mg

Question 8

How to dose citalopram

Answer 8

Typically during AM, but can be dosed during PMs

Interval: 10 mg/Week

Question 9

Typical Side effects seen in citalopram:

Answer 9

Nausea, Somnolence, sexual side effects, headache

Question 10

Labs to monitor for Citalopram

Answer 10

ECG - get one at baseline

BMP - SSRIs can cause hyponatremia

Periodically for patients on Citalopram > 40 mg

Question 11

What is an inappropriate intervention if veterans wants a higher dosage of Citalopram > 40 mg

Answer 11

Start them on Escitalopram 20 mg

Cafer explains 20 mg is more effective dose than citalopram 40 or greater. Cafer pg. 96