What type of drug is citalopram?

Citalopram is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This type of medication is primarily used in the treatment of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. SSRIs function by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in mood regulation.

By selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin at the synaptic cleft, citalopram enhances serotonin availability, thereby improving mood and alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety. This mechanism distinguishes SSRIs from other classes of medications, such as beta blockers, which are used to manage cardiovascular conditions; ACE inhibitors, which are used to treat hypertension and heart failure; and antipsychotics, which are primarily utilized for managing psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Thus, recognizing citalopram as an SSRI is crucial for understanding its therapeutic use and how it fits into the broader category of medications used for mental health conditions.