Citalopram is an antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. This type of drug usually works by ensuring that the brain has a good balance of serotonin to properly regulate moods. The most common use of citalopram is to treat depression and related conditions, including anxiety, eating disorders and panic disorder. This drug also can often treat conditions that cause pain to the body, including migraines and fibromyalgia. In addition, antidepressants such as citalopram may help reduce symptoms of diabetic neuropathy and can get rid of issues including premature ejaculation and hot flashes.
One of the most common reasons for citalopram use is depression, which makes sense considering this medication is a type of antidepressant and is specifically designed to improve the mood of patients. It is, however, often used for related conditions that depressed people also sometimes have. For example, it can be used to treat panic disorder, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It also can be used to treat those whose mental state affects their view of their body, as is the case with anorexia, bulimia and body dysmorphic disorder. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and personality disorders also can often be treated with the use of this drug.
Some doctors recommend citalopram use for disorders that are not related to the mental state of patients, because it can relieve pain in some instances. For example, this drug can be used to treat migraines, especially in conjunction with other medications. Some patients may get a prescription for this drug to treat fibromyalgia, which is a condition that usually causes frequent pain in the muscles. Citalopram use also may reduce the fatigue that often comes with fibromyalgia, because this drug is known for increasing the energy levels of most patients.
Citalopram use is often recommended for patients dealing with medical disorders such as diabetic neuropathy. This drug can reduce the symptoms of this disorder, which may include pain or numbness in the arms, legs and major organs. Some patients who experience occasional premature ejaculation may find citalopram use beneficial, as well. This is because one of the most well-known side effects of this drug is delayed ejaculation, which may bother patients who do not struggle with this issue but likely would benefit those who do. Additionally, citalopram use is known for treating hot flashes, which tend to be a side effect of menopause and other conditions that involve hormones.