What is the brand name for Citalopram?
The brand name for Citalopram is Celexa.
PTCE Top 200 · #43
Citalopram
Celexa
Citalopram is the generic name for the brand-name drug Celexa. It is a ssri antidepressant used to treat depression. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Citalopram ranks #43 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Citalopram |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Celexa |
| Drug class | SSRI antidepressant |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | depression |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Citalopram used for?
• Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults.
What drug class is Citalopram?
Citalopram is a SSRI antidepressant in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Citalopram
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightSomnolence or insomnia
- arrow_rightSweating
- arrow_rightSexual dysfunction
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMAO inhibitors (contraindicated) → serotonin syndrome risk
- arrow_rightOther serotonergic drugs (triptans, linezolid, tramadol, St. John’s wort) → serotonin syndrome
- arrow_rightQT-prolonging drugs or electrolyte abnormalities ↑ risk of QT prolongation (dose-dependent)
- arrow_rightCYP2C19/CYP2D6 inhibitors may ↑ citalopram exposure
Is Citalopram a controlled substance?
No. Citalopram is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
Antidepressants increase risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults; monitor closely, especially during initiation and dose changes.
How to remember Citalopram (PTCE mnemonic)
CELexa CELebrates calmer mood — citalo-PRAM = SSRI. Max 40mg (20mg if >60yo) due to QT prolongation; suicidality (boxed).
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Citalopram (Celexa) is the look-alike/sound-alike partner of escitalopram (Lexapro) — a textbook LASA pair.
Citalopram FAQ
What is Citalopram used for?
Citalopram is used to treat depression. • Major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults.
What drug class is Citalopram?
Citalopram is a SSRI antidepressant (CNS/Psych group).
Is Citalopram a controlled substance?
No. Citalopram is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Citalopram the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).