Final answer:
Citalopram (Celexa) belongs to the antidepressant classification known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by blocking the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin into the presynaptic neuron to boost serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft and alleviate depression symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Citalopram, also known by its brand name Celexa, belongs to the antidepressant class known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs like citalopram work by blocking the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin into the presynaptic neuron. This blockage leads to an increase in the amount of serotonin in the synaptic cleft, enhancing its effect.
SSRIs have been found beneficial for treating depression, mainly due to the link between depleted serotonin levels and depression symptoms. This class of antidepressants provides more time for serotonin to interact with serotonin receptors on dendrites, which can help alleviate these symptoms.
Other classes of antidepressants include norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors, norepinephrine-serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tricyclics, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These work by different mechanisms to the SSRIs. For instance, MAOIs block the enzyme that degrades neurotransmitters, thereby increasing the neurotransmitter concentration in the synaptic cleft.
Learn more about Citalopram and Antidepressants