Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking citalopram as follows: Citalopram intake can also induce a life-threatening reaction called Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). Individuals with NMS can present with high fever, episodes of confusion, intense muscle rigidity and contractions, elevated blood pressure, and rapid heart rate. Uncontrolled seizure activity and intense muscle contractions from citalopram use can lead to muscle damage and breakdown. Potassium ion from within the damaged muscle cells can [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking citalopram as follows:   Citalopram intake carries the risk of causing seizures, especially in individuals with history of seizures. Individuals can present with sudden episodes of loss of consciousness, intense convulsions with muscle contractions, bowel and bladder incontinence. Do not ignore seizure episodes and report them to your physician promptly for any appropriate measures to be considered. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking citalopram as follows: Citalopram can induce some dizziness and make one drowsy. Starting the medication at a low dose, watching for the response, and gradually changing the dose, to help optimum control of your symptoms, can contribute to controlling/reducing the risk for drowsiness and dizziness due to the medication. If the dizziness becomes bothersome, report it to your physician and other health care personnel, for [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking citalopram as follows: Citalopram use can also induce extreme dry mouth and constipation. Sucking on a sugar free hard candy can help with symptomatic relief of dry mouth. Compliance with daily fluid intake recommendations and hydration measures can help with relief from constipation. Observing compliance with fiber intake recommendations in the diet can also help with preventing constipation with citalopram. If you experience any further [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Citalopram as follows: Serotonin is one chemical in the brain, which in permissible amounts, is believed to reduce anxiety and promote happiness and well-being. Very excessive concentrations of serotonin in the brain can lead to serotonin syndrome. Individuals with serotonin syndrome can present with mania, excitement, hallucinations, agitation, insomnia, pounding heartbeat, very rapid heart rate, overactive reflexes, and diarrhea. Citalopram use, especially along with other antidepressants acting on [...]