How long do i need to take citalopram before it is fully effective? i have heard it takes several weeks to work.

Citalopram: Like most antidepressants of the SSRI group it usually takes 4-67 weeks for it to be fully effective. Some of my patients notice effects as early as 1-2 weeks and others take the full 6 weeks to notice anything at all. Some patients require a higher dose than the suggested 20 mg to have a therapeutic effect, that is why I see patients back at 4 weeks to reevaluate.

2-4 weeks.: Usually doses are adjusted every two weeks if no improvement is seen. You doctor would direct you on this. Anxiety symptoms could improve earlier.

You are correct: Citalopram like most antidepressants takes a few weeks to become effective