What is the recommended timeframe for a client to start feeling the effects of citalopram?

Citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is commonly prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. The timeframe for patients to start experiencing therapeutic effects from citalopram typically falls within four weeks. Research and clinical observations indicate that while some individuals may notice improvements sooner, the most significant effects often manifest around the one-month mark after initiation of therapy.

The gradual onset of citalopram’s action is attributed to the time required for neurochemical changes to take place within the brain and for the serotonin levels to stabilize. This period allows patients to start seeing improvements in mood, anxiety, and associated symptoms. Thus, identifying four weeks as the timeframe aligns with the pharmacological understanding of how SSRIs work in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.