Does citalopram contain acetaminophen? (+3 differences)

In this article, we will discuss whether citalopram contains acetaminophen. We will also discuss the composition of citalopram and acetaminophen formulations. Additionally, we will discuss the key differences between these medications and explore whether we can take them together. 

Does citalopram contain acetaminophen?

No, citaloram does not contain acetaminohen. These are different medications that belong to different classes and are used for different purposes. Citalopram is an antidepressant medication while acetaminophen is an analgesic and painkiller medication (1,2). 

These medications are formulated in different dosage forms including tablets and oral solutions, however, none of the commercially available formulations of citalopram contains acetaminophen. 

What is the composition of citalopram formulation?

The typical formulation of citalopram contains both active and inactive ingredients. These ingredients serve different purposes and help in formulating the final dosage form of citalopram that the patients administer. The commercially available formulation of citalopram also known as Celexa may contain the following ingredients: 

What does acetaminophen formulation contain?

Acetaminophen is an extensively used medication available in varied dosage forms under different brand names. The commonly used formulation of acetaminophen, known as Tylenol, comprises active and inactive ingredients. However, it’s essential to note that none of its formulations include citalopram.

The active ingredient in commercially available acetaminophen products is paracetamol or acetaminophen, while the inactive ingredients may vary from one formulation to another. Generally, these ingredients include binders, fillers, bulking agents, lubricants, colorants, and diluents, serving different purposes in making the final dosage form of acetaminophen.

What are the key differences between citalopram and acetaminophen?

Both citalopram and acetaminophen are completely different medications. The key difference between both medications may include their mechanism of action, therapeutic uses, and side effects (1,2):

Are there any similarities between citalopram and acetaminophen?

Citalopram and acetaminophen are two distinct medications with different purposes and mechanisms of action. While they are not similar in terms of their primary functions, there are a few considerations to be aware of:

• Both citalopram and acetaminophen can have effects on the central nervous system but in different ways.

• Both drugs undergo metabolism in the liver. However, acetaminophen has a more direct connection to the liver. On the other hand, citalopram is not known for causing liver issues, although it is always important to monitor liver function during long-term use of medications.

• Similar side effects of citalopram and acetaminophen may include stomach upset, gastrointestinal discomfort, and appetite changes.

Does citalopram show any potential interactions with acetaminophen?

There is no known interaction between citalopram and acetaminophen. Analgesic medications containing acetaminophen are generally combined with SSRIs to manage the side effects of these medications such as headaches, fatigue, and increased body temperature. It is completely safe to combine acetaminophen with citalopram and other SSRIs, including sertraline and fluoxetine.

However, in some cases, individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal issues such as gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disorder are likely to experience gastrointestinal discomfort and other related side effects of both citalopram and acetaminophen (3). It is recommended to avoid this combination in such patients to prevent unwanted side effects. 

In my experience

Based on my past experiences, I have not come across any formulations of citalopram in pharmacies that contain acetaminophen. Although acetaminophen is often prescribed to patients taking citalopram to manage headaches, fatigue, or fever because of its safety profile, it is important to note that combining any medication with citalopram should only be done after consulting with a healthcare provider. This is to avoid unwanted side effects and worsening of symptoms.

References