DRUG	SUPPLIED	DOSE	COMMENTS
CITALOPRAM (Paeds) (Celexa) Mechanism of action: Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI) Ref: 4, 83 Last update: 2021-06-22	tablet: 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg (10 mg tablet manufactured only by generic companies)	Children and Adolescents: Initial dose: 5-20 mg PO daily Usual dose: 10-40 mg PO daily Increment: 5-10 mg at weekly intervals. Maximum Dose: 40 mg daily. Patients with liver dysfunction or who take cimetidine: 20 mg PO daily.	Effective in the treatment of depression. Also used for treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Children metabolize SSRIs more rapidly than adults and may require doses in the higher end of the dosing range. May take 2-4 weeks to see therapeutic effects. Common adverse effects: headache, nausea, dry mouth, sweating, tremor and impaired sexual function (adolescents/adults), QTc prolongation. Minimal CYP interactions. Do not suddenly stop long-term treatment due to risk of SSRI discontinuation syndrome (flu-like symptoms, dizziness, “electric-shock” sensations). It is recommended to taper down dose by ~25%/week. See fluoxetine for more information. Prescribers must be aware of warnings issued by Health Canada regarding the use of antidepressants in pediatric patients, and use of citalopram in patients with certain abnormal heart rhythms. Refer to the Health Canada Website. Standard Prescription: citalopram__mg PO__(frequency)