Pharma & Specialty Chemical Standards

Citalopram, IUPAC name (S)-1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3-propanediol (C17H22F3N, molecular weight 297.35 g/mol), is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) with a propanediol backbone and a fluorophenyl ring. Its (S)-enantiomer exhibits high affinity for the serotonin transporter (SERT), inhibiting serotonin reuptake and enhancing synaptic neurotransmission. It is therapeutically indicated for major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. Citalopram is a white to off-white solid, slightly water-soluble (pKa ~9.5), and metabolized via CYP2C19/3A4. Its mechanism involves SERT blockade, increasing extracellular serotonin levels, while its structural fluorine contributes to metabolic stability and selectivity over norepinephrine/dopamine transporters.