Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor, to benefit your condition as much as possible. Celexa (citalopram) is a prescription drug that treats depression in adults. Learn about side effects, Celexa vs. Lexapro, dosage, withdrawal, and more. Overview: Citalopram is used to treat depression. It is thought to work by increasing the amount of a natural chemical called serotonin in the brain. Common side effects may include nausea, changes. 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 a medication that treats depression. It increases the amount of serotonin in your brain. Citalopram is a prescription medicine used in adults to treat depression. Citalopram is also used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). Citalopram belongs to a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Citalopram, sold under the brand name Celexa among others, is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. [7][9] It is used to treat major depressive disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. [7] Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide) used to treat the symptoms of depression. Learn side effects, dosage, drug interactions, warnings, patient labeling, reviews, and more. Celexa (citalopram) is a brand-name drug that’s used to treat depression in adults. Celexa comes as a tablet that you swallow. Learn about side effects, dosage, uses, and more. Celexa is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that blocks the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) by the nerves of the central nervous system, which enhances serotonergic activity.