What is the brand name for Citalopram?
The brand name for Citalopram is Celexa.
PTCB 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).
Study guides that cover Citalopram
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
edit_noteSig codes cheat sheetthe abbreviations on this drug's label
descriptionHow to read a prescriptionevery field on a prescription, decodedSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Citalopram the way the PTCE asks it
RxReflex turns the Top 200 drugs into fast flashcard rounds, a guided Learn path, pharmacy math, and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Last reviewed August 7, 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).