Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
Citalopram in Argentina: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Citalopram in Argentina under ANMAT (Administración Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnología Médica): prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in ARS. Citalopram belongs to the Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class.
- Regulator
- ANMAT (Administración Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnología Médica)
- Currency
- ARS
About Citalopram
Citalopram is approved for major depressive disorder. In Argentina, prescription-only medications are dispensed against signed and stamped prescriptions; certain controlled medications use special triplicate forms. Many medications are otherwise available with pharmacist-only oversight.
Mechanism and action
Citalopram selectively inhibits the serotonin reuptake transporter, increasing synaptic serotonin availability with limited affinity for noradrenaline transporters or other receptors.
Brands and generics in Argentina
In Argentina, Citalopram is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. Farmacias argentinas operate as independent businesses or small chains; the pharmacist is a respected first-line consultant. Coverage by social security funds (obra social) often subsidises chronic medications. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local ANMAT (Administración Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnología Médica) equivalence rules, and the price difference in ARS is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Online sale of prescription medication is regulated by ANMAT and largely limited to authorised pharmacy chains; informal online sources are common but not legal channels. For Citalopram specifically, the legal online options in Argentina depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under ANMAT (Administración Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnología Médica).
Frequently asked questions
Is Citalopram available in Argentina? ▾
Yes — Citalopram and its brands are available in Argentina through pharmacies authorised by ANMAT (Administración Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnología Médica), in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Citalopram in Argentina? ▾
In Argentina, prescription-only medications are dispensed against signed and stamped prescriptions; certain controlled medications use special triplicate forms. Many medications are otherwise available with pharmacist-only oversight. The exact status of Citalopram (Rx or OTC) is determined by ANMAT (Administración Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnología Médica); most active ingredients in the Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Citalopram cost in Argentina? ▾
The price in ARS depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Citalopram in Argentina
Citalopram in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.