Citalopram vs Paroxetine

Citalopram vs Paroxetine: Overview

This comparison examines the pharmacological differences between Citalopram and Paroxetine.

Mechanism of Action

Citalopram: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI); racemic mixture with escitalopram as active S-enantiomer.

Paroxetine: Potent selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor with additional muscarinic and NE reuptake inhibition.

Pharmacokinetics

Half-life: Citalopram — 35 hours; Paroxetine — 21 hours.

Chemical Properties

Molecular Formula: Citalopram — C20H21FN2O; Paroxetine — C19H20FNO3.

Molecular Weight: Citalopram — 324.3920 g/mol; Paroxetine — 329.3730 g/mol.

Type: Citalopram — Small molecule; Paroxetine — Small molecule.