Drug Comparison

Citalopram vs. Metoprolol Tartrate

Compare Citalopram and Metoprolol Tartrate: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.

Quick Comparison

CategoryCitalopramMetoprolol Tartrate
Drug ClassSSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)Beta-Blockers
Rx StatusRxRx
Generic AvailableNoNo
Typical Cost$4–$25/month$4–$25/month

Citalopram Overview

Citalopram is a medication called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat major depressive disorder in adults. It works by helping to restore the balance of a natural substance called serotonin in the brain, which can improve mood and feelings of well-being.

Full Citalopram guide →

Metoprolol Tartrate Overview

Metoprolol Tartrate is a beta-blocker medication used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain (angina), and to improve outcomes after a heart attack. It works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing the heart rate, which helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the heart's workload.

Full Metoprolol Tartrate guide →

How Each Drug Works

Citalopram

The mechanism of action of citalopram is unclear, but is presumed to be related to potentiation of serotonergic activity in the central nervous system (CNS) resulting from its inhibition of CNS neuronal reuptake of serotonin (5-HT).

Approved Uses (Indications)

Citalopram

Citalopram is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults [see Clinical Studies ] . Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults .

Metoprolol Tartrate

Metoprolol tartrate is a beta-adrenergic blocker indicated for the treatment of:

  • Hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions.
  • Angina Pectoris.
  • Myocardial Infarction, to reduce the risk of cardiovascular mortality when used in conjunction with intravenous metoprolol therapy in patients with definite or suspected acute myocardial infarction in hemodynamically stable patients.

Hypertension Metoprolol tartrate is in…

Side Effects

Citalopram

Metoprolol Tartrate

Cost Comparison

Citalopram

$4–$25/month

As a widely available generic, Citalopram is very affordable. Using discount cards like GoodRx can further reduce the cost to just a few dollars per month.

Metoprolol Tartrate

$4–$25/month

As a widely available generic, Metoprolol Tartrate is typically affordable. Using discount cards like GoodRx can further reduce the cost, often bringing it down to under $10 per month at many pharmacies.

Drug Interaction: Minor

Citalopram is not a significant inhibitor of CYP2D6, the primary enzyme metabolizing metoprolol. Therefore, a clinically significant pharmacokinetic interaction leading to increased metoprolol levels is unlikely. However, both drugs can independently cause bradycardia, so additive pharmacodynamic effects are theoretically possible, though rarely clinically significant.

Mechanism: Metoprolol is primarily metabolized by CYP2D6. Citalopram is a weak or negligible inhibitor of CYP2D6, minimizing pharmacokinetic interaction. Both metoprolol (beta-blocker) and citalopram (SSRI) can cause bradycardia, suggesting a potential additive pharmacodynamic effect.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.