It was found that a more pronounced ...

In this respect, citalopram has several advantages as compared with traditional TCAs, and to other SSRIs. C is the most selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors of all the currently known anti-depressants [10], with high selectivity determines the impact of very little effect of the drug on noradrenergic and dopaminergic systems. The drug is characteristic and minimal affinity for adrenoreceptors, histamine and dopamine receptors [11]. Similar pharmacological properties of citalopram determine its favorable profile of side effects, in particular, is much less pronounced, compared with TCAs, cardiovascular and anticholinergic manifestations in the form of orthostatic hypotension, ECG disturbances, dry mouth and tremors [21]. It should be emphasized that the severity of side effects during therapy reduces C [22]. It is important to note that less than that of other drugs bound to plasma proteins and inhibition of liver enzyme - cytochrome P-450 is determined by very little potential for drug interactions C [22]. Particularly attractive for use in the practice of drug C is doing what he does not interact with alcohol [23], almost does not inhibit the cognitive and psychomotor function [24], the termination of its acceptance is not accompanied by the development of the manifestations of withdrawal syndrome [25], even a large overdose (maximally registered receiving 5200 mg, ie 260 doses) does not lead to death [26]. Another problem with alcoholism is the presence of comorbid anxiety and panic disorders [49]. C is regarded as a promising agent for treating this kind of mental pathology. His impact on the panic attacks were reported in a recent large (n = 475), placebo-controlled study [50]. As already noted above in the late 1980's - early 1990's were obtained encouraging results on the application of SSRIs, in particular, C, to reduce the craving for alcohol [12,15,16]. Subsequent studies provided data that helped refine the features of C in the craving for alcohol and the amount received alcohol. It was found that a more pronounced effect (a decrease in the number of drive and drink alcohol daily), citalopram was observed in cases of moderate alcohol abuse [27, 28], as well as the fact that in some cases the effect decreased with prolonged use of the drug [28]. Interesting results were obtained in treatment C alcoholics in Finland and Italy. In the Finnish study [30] using a placebo control C was administered for 3 months in patients with alcoholism, most of whom (68%) disease was considered to be severe (type 2 alcoholism, Irwin [29]). A month after the therapy, 19% of patients completely abstain from alcohol consumption (up to a maximum treatment period of abstinence from alcohol did not exceed one week), and 26% of relatives of patients reported significant improvement.