Citalopram-induced hallucinations and delusions in a young adult

Objective: To report on a case of citalopram-induced hallucinations and delusions. Method: The authors present the case of a patient who developed psychotic symptoms including hallucinations and delusions shortly after starting the SSRI citalopram for posttraumatic stress disorder and associated depression. Results: Citalopram was discontinued and his symptoms quickly resolved. Conclusion: Providers should use caution and advise patients of rare but serious side effects even when prescribing generally safe medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.