Antidepressants

Citalopram Price Without Insurance

Citalopram is a common medicine used to help adults who are struggling with long-term sadness or depression. It is very affordable, often costing less than one dollar for a full month's supply without insurance.

Pricing data verified against NADAC (CMS) acquisition cost dataset. Drug information sourced from FDA drug labeling data. Last reviewed .
NADAC Data (CMS) FDA Drug Labels
Direct Answer — What Is Citalopram?

Citalopram is a medication called an antidepressant that helps balance chemicals in your brain to improve your mood. It is used to treat major depressive disorder in adults.

$0.87Cash Price / MonthNADAC, CMS
$0.03Lowest Unit PriceNADAC May 2026
$5.16Highest Unit PriceNADAC May 2026
$2.6190-Day SupplyEstimated
Citalopram
Brand name: Celexa · Antidepressants medication
Antidepressants
Cash Price / Month
$0.87
30-day supply estimate
Unit Price Range
$0.03 – $5.16
per unit · NADAC May 2026
90-Day Supply
$2.61
estimated cash price

Cheapest way to get Citalopram

With insurance vs. without insurance

Without Insurance
$0.87/mo
Cash price · NADAC median
With Insurance (estimate)
$0–$1/mo
Copay varies by plan & formulary tier

Always compare your insurance copay against cash + GoodRx — sometimes cash is cheaper.

What Is Citalopram?

Citalopram is a type of medicine known as an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), but you can simply think of it as a mood balancer. It helps your brain maintain a healthy level of natural chemicals that keep you feeling stable and positive. This medicine is the generic version of the brand-name drug Celexa. Generic medicines like Citalopram work exactly the same way as the brand-name versions but are usually much cheaper. Because it is available as a generic, it is one of the most common and low-cost options for treating depression today.

What Is Citalopram Used For?

  • Major depression in adults
  • Long-term feelings of sadness or hopelessness

How Does Citalopram Work?

Think of your brain like a garden that needs a special 'mood-boosting' water called serotonin to stay healthy and bright. In some people, the brain's drains work too quickly, sucking that water away before the garden can use it. Citalopram acts like a tiny plug for those drains. By slowing down the drains, it keeps more 'mood-boosting' water around for your brain to soak up, which helps lift your mood and energy.

Dosage Form & Route

This medication comes as a tablet that you swallow by mouth once a day. You can take it either with food or on an empty stomach.

This is general information only. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions for your specific dosage.

Important Warnings

  • Young adults and children may have an increased risk of thoughts about hurting themselves when first starting this medicine
  • Can cause a serious change in heart rhythm, especially at higher doses
  • May cause a dangerous reaction called Serotonin Syndrome if taken with certain other drugs
  • Can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising, especially if you take aspirin or blood thinners
  • Should be used with caution if you have a history of seizures or bipolar disorder

Common Side Effects

The following side effects have been reported with Citalopram. This is not a complete list. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience unexpected symptoms.

Nausea or upset stomachDry mouthFeeling very sleepy or tiredTrouble falling asleep at nightIncreased sweatingChanges in sexual desire or ability

Generic vs. Brand Name

Yes — a generic version of Citalopram is available and is typically much cheaper than the brand-name version.

The brand name for Citalopram is Celexa. Generic versions contain the same active ingredient, dosage, and strength, but may cost significantly less.

Citalopram is a government-approved prescription medication used to treat depression.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Citalopram used for?

It is a daily pill used to treat major depression in adults. It helps improve your mood and can help you feel more like yourself again.

Does Citalopram have a generic?

Yes, Citalopram is the generic version of the brand-name drug Celexa. Both drugs use the same active medicine to treat depression.

How much does Citalopram cost without insurance?

It is very low-cost for most people. A typical monthly supply is about $0.87, and a 90-day supply costs around $2.61.

What are common side effects of Citalopram?

The most common issues people report are a dry mouth, feeling sleepy, nausea, and trouble sleeping. Some people may also notice changes in their sexual drive.

How to Save on Citalopram

  • Use GoodRx or RxSaver to instantly compare prices at pharmacies near you
  • Ask your doctor about switching to the generic — it contains the same active ingredient at a fraction of the price
  • Ask your pharmacist for a 90-day fill — it often costs less per pill than a monthly prescription
  • Compare your insurance copay against the cash + GoodRx price — cash can sometimes be cheaper
  • Check Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs — transparency pricing often undercuts traditional pharmacies
Price data sourced from NADAC (National Average Drug Acquisition Cost) published by CMS, last updated May 2026. Drug information sourced from FDA drug labeling data via the openFDA API. Prices represent pharmacy acquisition cost and do not include dispensing fees, insurance adjustments, or retail markup. Actual prices will vary. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for medical guidance.

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