Citalopram-Associated Urinary Side Effects

Evaluation and Management

• When a patient develops frequent urination while on citalopram, evaluate for other causes of urinary symptoms, as recommended by The American Urological Association 1
• Consider switching to a different antidepressant with potentially fewer urinary side effects if urinary symptoms significantly impact quality of life, according to the American College of Physicians 2

Safety and Monitoring

• Citalopram is associated with a risk of QT prolongation at doses exceeding 40 mg/day, as reported by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 3
• There is a risk of suicidal ideation, particularly in adolescents, when taking citalopram, as noted by The American Urological Association 1
• The therapeutic benefits of citalopram in treating depression, anxiety, and other conditions must be weighed against the potential for urinary symptoms, as stated by the American Academy of Family Physicians 4 and the American College of Physicians 2