Cipram Tablet (Citalopram) Dosage
Correct dose of Cipram Tablet (Citalopram) is essential for treatment success. In antidepressants, the dose is always determined by the doctor or psychiatrist — do not adjust yourself.
Adult Dose
- Starting dose: Generally 20mg once daily
- Usual dose: As prescribed — doctor adjusts based on condition and response
- Maximum dose: 40mg/day — regulatory maximum due to dose-dependent QT prolongation (old 60mg limit removed)
- Frequency: Once daily — morning or evening
Starting Dose: As prescribed by your doctor (generally 20mg)
Usual Dose: As prescribed — titrated by doctor
Max Daily Dose: 40mg/day (do not exceed — cardiac risk)
Child Dose
Psychiatrist supervision is required for paediatric use. Weight-based dose — consult your doctor. The risk of suicidal ideation is higher in children — close monitoring is necessary.
How to Take
- Once daily — at the time prescribed by the doctor
- Can be taken with or without food — if nausea occurs, take after food
- Swallow the whole tablet with water — do not crush or chew
- Consistency is necessary — take at the same time every day
Best Time to Take
- Morning preferred — if insomnia occurs
- Evening — if sedation is a side effect and sleep is better at night
- As per doctor's advice — then the same time every day
With Food or Empty Stomach
Can be taken either way. If nausea occurs at the start, taking after food is better — this generally resolves within 1-2 weeks.
Missed Dose
Take as soon as you remember. If the next dose time is close, skip it and continue the normal schedule. Never take a double dose. Daily consistency is important with antidepressants.
Stopping Citalopram
Never stop suddenly — discontinuation syndrome can occur:
- Dizziness, nausea, flu-like symptoms
- "Electric shock" sensations (brain zaps)
- Anxiety, irritability, insomnia
Reduce the dose gradually under the doctor's guidance (tapering) — often reducing week by week. The process can take weeks depending on duration of use.
Overdose
Citalopram overdose is serious — QT prolongation, seizures, cardiac arrhythmia can occur. Contact emergency IMMEDIATELY. Intentional overdose is possible in mental health patients — family should remain vigilant.
Dose Summary Table
| Patient | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | As prescribed (generally 20mg start) | Max 40mg/day |
| Child | Weight-based — psychiatrist decides | Close monitoring required |
| Elderly | Lower dose — 20mg max often recommended | QT risk + SIADH risk |
The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. Always confirm the dose with your doctor or psychiatrist. Do not start or stop on your own.