Hapicit Tablets 20mg (1 Box = 1 Strip, 1 Strip = 10 Tablets): Description, Uses, and Information for Pakistan
Description Hapicit 20mg tablets contain citalopram hydrobromide, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used as an antidepressant. It boosts serotonin levels in the brain by blocking its reuptake, helping to lift mood in depressive disorders. Studies show citalopram’s effect comes mainly from its (S)-enantiomer, with minimal impact on norepinephrine or dopamine. It doesn’t lose its serotonin-blocking ability even with long-term use, making it effective for ongoing treatment in Pakistan under medical guidelines.
Ingredients Citalopram Hydrobromide
Drug Class Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)
Dosage Form Tablet
Requires Prescription Yes
Uses Following Pakistan Medical Association standards, Hapicit 20mg is prescribed in Pakistan for:
- Depressive disorders, both endogenous (biological) and non-endogenous (situational).
- Managing symptoms like persistent sadness, low energy, or lack of interest.
- Supporting mood stability in chronic depression.
Doctor’s Review Dr. Rabeya Tufail, MBBS from Ziauddin University and Managing Editor at CureCartDirect, states: “Hapicit 20mg tablets help manage depression by increasing serotonin levels, easing symptoms like low mood and fatigue. They’re effective for both biological and situational depression when monitored closely.”
Dosage Take as prescribed by your doctor, usually one 20mg tablet daily, swallowed whole with water, with or without food. Doses may start lower (e.g., 10mg) and adjust based on response, up to 40mg daily max. Stick to the same time daily for consistency.
In Case of Overdose Overdose may lead to nausea, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or seizures. Seek immediate medical help in Pakistan. Contact a doctor or poison control for urgent care, which may involve monitoring or supportive treatment.
Missed Dose Take a missed dose as soon as remembered unless it’s close to the next dose—then skip it. Don’t double up to avoid risks like serotonin syndrome. Use reminders to stay on schedule.
How to Use Swallow the tablet whole with water, at a consistent time daily, as directed by your doctor.
When Not to Use Avoid Hapicit 20mg if you have:
- Allergy to citalopram or any tablet ingredients.
- Current use of MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping them.
Side Effects Possible side effects include:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach upset.
- Tremors, drowsiness, or trouble sleeping.
- Dry mouth, increased sweating, or yawning.
- Anxiety, agitation, or confusion.
- Low sodium levels, bleeding issues, or serotonin syndrome (rare).
- Sexual dysfunction, rash, or vision changes. Report severe or lasting effects to your doctor.
Precautions & Warnings Pakistan’s medical guidelines advise:
- Monitor closely for worsening mood, suicidal thoughts, or unusual behavior, especially in the first few months or during dose changes.
- Higher risk of suicidal thinking in children, teens, and young adults—balance risks with benefits.
- Not approved for pediatric use.
- Caregivers should watch for mood or behavior changes and stay in touch with the doctor.
- Use cautiously with a history of seizures, liver issues, or bipolar disorder.
- Consult your doctor if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding—risks to fetus or infant need evaluation.
Drug Interactions Inform your doctor about all medications. Key interactions include:
- MAOIs, lithium, tryptophan, or pimozide (risk of serotonin syndrome).
- Other SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans, or serotonergic drugs (increase side effect risks).
- St. John’s Wort or linezolid (heighten serotonin effects).
- Tramadol, anticoagulants, or NSAIDs (bleeding risk).
- Drugs affecting heart rhythm (e.g., quinidine) or electrolytes (e.g., diuretics).
- CYP2D6 substrates (e.g., metoprolol) or CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g., PPIs).
- Alcohol (may worsen side effects).
Food Interactions
- Avoid alcohol to reduce risks of sedation or worsened depression.
- No specific food restrictions, but a balanced diet supports treatment.
- Limit caffeine if it increases anxiety or sleep issues.
- Consult your doctor for dietary advice if on other medications.
Storage/Disposal Store at room temperature, away from light, heat, and moisture, in the original container, tightly sealed. Avoid bathrooms. Dispose of expired or unused tablets per pharmacist or local waste guidelines to prevent environmental harm. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Control Drug Yes
Quick Tips
- Take as prescribed, same time daily.
- Report mood changes or suicidal thoughts immediately.
- Avoid alcohol to minimize side effects.
- Don’t stop suddenly—taper with doctor guidance.
- List all meds for your doctor to check interactions.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight.
Disclaimer This is product information on Hapicit (citalopram hydrobromide), not a medical prescription. Consult a qualified Pakistani doctor for diagnosis, treatment, or dosing. Do not self-medicate based on this content.
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