--- title: "Citalopram: Uses & Side Effects | HealthAnswers" description: "Citalopram is an SSRI antidepressant for depression and anxiety disorders, with a lower maximum dose in older adults due to a heart rhythm risk." url: https://healthanswers.co.uk/treatments/citalopram/ robots: noindex --- # Citalopram: Uses & Side Effects | HealthAnswers Treatments Citalopram is an SSRI antidepressant for depression and anxiety disorders, with a lower maximum dose in older adults due to a heart rhythm risk. Written by HealthAnswers editorial team Medically reviewed by [HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel](https://healthanswers.co.uk/our-doctors/) Reviewed 3 July 2026 ## Quick answer What is citalopram used for? Citalopram is an SSRI antidepressant used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. The usual maximum dose is 40mg a day, reduced to 20mg in people over 65 or those on certain interacting medicines, because of a small risk of QT prolongation (an abnormal heart rhythm). It takes weeks to work and should be tapered off gradually, not stopped suddenly. ## Who is this page for? This page is for people in the UK who want a plain-English overview of Citalopram, including when to seek help and what NHS care usually involves. It explains general information, not what is wrong with you personally. ## Who should skip this page? Skip this page if you need a diagnosis, a prescription, or emergency care. It cannot replace a GP, pharmacist, NHS 111 or 999. If you are in immediate danger, call 999; for urgent advice that is not life-threatening, call 111 in England, Scotland or Wales, or use your GP out-of-hours service in Northern Ireland. On this page 4 sections ## Key facts about citalopram - Citalopram is an SSRI antidepressant used for depression and anxiety. - The usual maximum dose is 40mg daily, lower in older adults. - Higher doses need ECG monitoring for QT interval changes. - Side effects are similar to those of other SSRIs. - It should not be combined with MAOI antidepressants. ## What citalopram is used for Citalopram is prescribed for **depression** and **anxiety disorders**. It is occasionally used off-label for chronic pain, although this is not its main licensed use. ## How citalopram is dosed Treatment usually starts at 20mg a day and may be increased to 40mg if needed. In older adults, and in people taking certain other medicines that interact with citalopram through the CYP2C19 liver enzyme, the maximum dose is kept lower to reduce risk. ## Side effects of citalopram Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, changes to sleep, and sexual dysfunction, similar to other SSRIs. QT prolongation is a rare but serious side effect, so you should seek help promptly if you notice palpitations or fainting (syncope). ## Stopping citalopram safely Citalopram should be tapered gradually over several weeks rather than stopped abruptly, as sudden withdrawal can cause uncomfortable symptoms. Always agree a stopping plan with your GP rather than discontinuing it on your own. ## ! Important safety information for citalopram A GP prescribes citalopram and monitors how you get on with it. Seek urgent help if you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or notice an irregular or racing heartbeat. Call **111** for urgent advice when you are unsure what to do. ## Common questions about citalopram Is citalopram better than sertraline? Citalopram and sertraline are both SSRIs with broadly similar effectiveness for depression and anxiety. The choice between them usually comes down to individual side effects, other medicines you take, and your past response to treatment. Why is the citalopram dose limited in older people? Older adults tend to reach higher blood levels of citalopram, which increases the risk of QT prolongation, an abnormal heart rhythm. Because of this, the maximum recommended dose is usually 20mg a day in people over 65. Does citalopram need heart monitoring? An ECG may be recommended if you are on a higher dose, have existing heart disease, or take other medicines that can also prolong the QT interval. Your GP will advise whether monitoring is needed in your case. What happens if I stop citalopram suddenly? Stopping citalopram abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms, including unusual sensations sometimes described as electric shocks. Citalopram should instead be reduced gradually under GP guidance. ## Sources - [NHS — Citalopram](https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/citalopram) - [NHS — Overview](https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/clinical-depression/overview)