Quick Take
Generic Celexa is a pharmaceutical formulation of citalopram, an oral selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression and anxiety. It contains the same active ingredient, dosage strength, and therapeutic effect as the brand‑name product Celexa, but it is manufactured by multiple approved companies, which drives the price down.
Both products deliver citalopram at identical strengths (10mg, 20mg, 40mg). The main differences lie in the inactive fillers, manufacturer, and cost. Brand Celexa, marketed by Forest Laboratories, carries a trademark and higher price tag due to brand positioning.
Attribute | Generic Celexa | Brand Celexa |
---|---|---|
Manufacturer | Multiple FDA‑approved firms | Forest Laboratories (now part of AbbVie) |
Price (U.S.) | $0.15-$0.30 per 10mg tablet | $1.20-$1.80 per tablet |
Inactive ingredients | Varies by maker (e.g., lactose, magnesium stearate) | Standardized across brand |
Regulatory status | Approved via ANDA pathway | Approved via NDA pathway |
Insurance coverage | Usually preferred tier | Higher copay tier |
Buying online can shave weeks off the pharmacy waiting time and give you access to bulk‑purchase discounts that brick‑and‑mortar stores rarely match. For people without nearby pharmacies or those on a tight budget, a reputable e‑pharmacy is often the most practical route.
However, the convenience comes with a responsibility to verify the seller’s legitimacy. The FDA oversees the safety of all prescription drugs sold in the United States and maintains a list of certified online pharmacies.
https://
and have a recognizable domain (e.g., .com, .org). Avoid domains ending in .ru
, .cn
, or other high‑risk country codes unless they clearly state U.S. licensing.When in doubt, cross‑check the pharmacy with the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) verification tool.
Price variation can be dramatic. Here’s a quick framework:
Combine these tactics, and you can usually hit a price under $0.25 per tablet.
Even with a verified pharmacy, keep these precautions in mind:
Typical adult dosing for citalopram starts at 20mg once daily, with a maximum of 40mg. Adjustments should be guided by a prescriber and based on response.
Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, increased sweating, and mild insomnia. Most resolve within two weeks.
Serious risks-though rare-are QT interval prolongation and serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic agents (e.g., MAO inhibitors, tramadol).
Always share a complete medication list with your prescriber to avoid dangerous drug interactions. The FDA’s online label provides a thorough interaction table.
If you experience intolerable side effects from the generic formulation-often due to differences in inactive fillers-switching back to the brand or trying another SSRI like sertraline or escitalopram may be advisable.
Some insurance plans have stricter tier structures, where brand‑name Celexa is covered only after a generic trial fails. In those cases, a prior‑authorization request from your doctor can unlock coverage.
The Controlled Substances Act does not list citalopram as a controlled drug, but it remains prescription‑only. Shipping without a valid prescription violates federal law and can result in seizure of the product.
Check whether your health plan’s pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) has a preferred online partner. Using a PBM‑approved portal can streamline claims and avoid out‑of‑pocket surprises.
Following this roadmap will help you buy online cheap generic Celexa while minimizing risk and maximizing savings.
No. Federal law requires a valid prescription for any citalopram product, generic or brand. Sites that skip this step are operating illegally and may sell counterfeit medication.
Prices range from $0.15 to $0.30 per 10mg tablet when ordered from a reputable U.S. online pharmacy, especially with bulk discounts or insurance coverage.
Nausea, dry mouth, increased sweating, mild insomnia, and occasional dizziness are the most frequently reported. Most side effects lessen after the first two weeks.
Yes. Most plans place generic citalopram on a preferred tier with low or $0 copays. Verify the pharmacy’s network status before ordering.
Check the imprint code, pill shape, and color against the FDA’s official images. Counterfeits often have misspelled logos, uneven coloring, or no imprint at all.
Importing prescription medication without a U.S. pharmacy licence is prohibited. Even if the price looks attractive, the safety and quality cannot be guaranteed.
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