From the FDA Drug Label
Carcinogenesis Citalopram was administered in the diet to NMRI/BOM strain mice and COBS WI strain rats for 18 and 24 months, respectively There was no evidence for carcinogenicity of citalopram in mice receiving up to 240 mg/kg/day, which is equivalent to 20 times the maximum recommended human daily dose (MRHD) of 60 mg on a surface area (mg/m2) basis. There was an increased incidence of small intestine carcinoma in rats receiving 8 or 24 mg/kg/day, doses which are approximately 1. 3 and 4 times the MRHD, respectively, on a mg/m2 basis. A no-effect dose for this finding was not established. The relevance of these findings to humans is unknown.
Citalopram and Cancer:
- The FDA drug label reports that citalopram was not carcinogenic in mice, but there was an increased incidence of small intestine carcinoma in rats.
- The relevance of these findings to humans is unknown.
- Therefore, no conclusion can be drawn about the relationship between citalopram and cancer in humans 1.
From the Research
Citalopram has not been shown to cause cancer, and current medical evidence does not indicate that it increases cancer risk or causes cancer. Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant medication commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions. According to a study published in 2012 2, citalopram was compared to other antidepressants in terms of efficacy, tolerability, and acceptability, and it was found to be more efficacious than paroxetine and reboxetine and more acceptable than tricyclics, reboxetine, and venlafaxine. However, it seemed to be less efficacious than escitalopram.
Some studies have explored the potential anti-cancer properties of SSRIs like citalopram, though this remains investigational and is not a reason to prescribe these medications 3. Citalopram is typically prescribed at doses ranging from 10-40mg daily, with 20mg being a common starting dose for adults. The medication works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood. If you're taking citalopram and concerned about cancer risk, you can be reassured that this medication is not known to increase cancer risk. However, if you notice any unusual symptoms while taking citalopram, you should discuss these with your healthcare provider, as they may be related to other side effects of the medication or to an unrelated condition requiring evaluation.
Key points to consider:
- Citalopram is not known to increase cancer risk
- Citalopram is a commonly prescribed SSRI for depression and anxiety disorders
- The medication works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain
- Unusual symptoms while taking citalopram should be discussed with a healthcare provider
- Citalopram may have potential anti-cancer properties, but this is still investigational 3
- A study published in 2011 found that citalopram is less likely to interact with anticancer drugs compared to other SSRIs 4.