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Compare Citalopram vs. Xanax

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Citalopram (Celexa) and alprazolam (Xanax) are both medications that can be used to treat anxiety, but they belong to different medication classes. Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) primarily used for depression, while alprazolam is a benzodiazepine approved for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder. Citalopram is taken once daily, whereas alprazolam is typically taken three times a day. Citalopram is not a controlled substance, but alprazolam is a Schedule IV controlled medication due to its potential for dependence and misuse. Common side effects of citalopram include nausea and dry mouth, while alprazolam often causes drowsiness and memory problems. Citalopram can interact with medications affecting serotonin levels. Both medications should not be stopped suddenly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

  • Citalopram (Celexa)
    Alprazolam (Xanax)
  • Citalopram (Celexa)
    Alprazolam (Xanax)

  • Summary of Citalopram vs. Xanax

    Summary for SSRI
    Prescription only

    Citalopram (Celexa) is a first-choice medication for treating depression in adults. This antidepressant belongs to the drug class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Citalopram (Celexa) is typically taken by mouth once daily. It typically takes a few weeks or longer of consistent treatment to notice an improvement to your mood. Common side effects include nausea and dry mouth. There's a low risk for weight gain, but suddenly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms (e.g., upset stomach, trouble sleeping, anxiety).

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. It's approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks in adults. It's taken by mouth, typically 3 times a day or as directed by your healthcare team. To avoid the risk of dependence, alprazolam (Xanax) is meant for short-term treatment only. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include drowsiness and memory problems. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking alprazolam (Xanax) because this can lead to serious interactions.

  • Indications of Citalopram vs. Xanax

    Indications for
    •Depression
    Indications for
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
    •Panic disorder

  • Pros and Cons of Citalopram vs. Xanax

    Pros and Const for SSRI
    Pros
    •A first-choice option for treating depression
    •One of the safest antidepressants for older adults
    •Available as a tablet, capsule, and a mint-flavored liquid
    •Taken by mouth once daily
    Cons
    •Can take a couple months before you feel the full effects of this medication
    •Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels or heart rhythm
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
    •Not FDA-approved for children
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can start to work in 30 minutes
    •Available as quick-dissolving tablets or liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    Cons
    •Can cause memory problems, drowsiness, and confusion
    •Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms
    •Not preferred during pregnancy

  • Common Side Effects of Citalopram vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (21%)
    •Dry mouth (20%)
    •Sleepiness (18%)
    •Trouble sleeping (15%)
    •Sweating (11%)
    •Tremor (8%)
    •Diarrhea (8%)
    •Ejaculation problems (6%)
    Common Side Effects for

    Generalized anxiety disorder:

    •Drowsiness (41%)
    •Lightheadedness (21%)
    •Dry mouth (15%)

    Panic disorder:

    •Drowsiness (77%)
    •Fatigue (49%)
    •Poor coordination (40%)
    •Memory issues (33%)
    •Irritability (33%)
    •Appetite changes (28-33%)
    •Thinking problems (29%)
    •Constipation (26%)

    Side effects listed are for the immediate-release forms. Side effects for extended-release form might differ.

  • Warnings of Citalopram vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Withdrawal
    •Risk factors: Stopping citalopram (Celexa) suddenly
    •Higher risk of bleeding
    •Not for use in bipolar disorder by itself
    •Glaucoma
    •Low sodium levels
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Potential for misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Harm to babies
    •Interactions with other medications
    •Use with caution in people with depression

  • Prices with our coupons for Citalopram vs. Xanax

    Learn more about Citalopram
    Learn more about Alprazolam

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