Are you on Citalopram also known as Celexa?
This article looks at side effects and examines 7 MUST know TIPS about CITALOPRAM.
What is Citalopram?
Citalopram
Celexa is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of depression. It can be also used off label to treat anxiety or OCD.
Celexa belongs to a class of drugs called Serotonin reuptake Inhibitors, (SSRIs for short.)
Celexa is the brand name for Citalopram.
How does Citalopram work?
Celexa works by increasing the amount of Serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is a chemical neurotransmitter which is in your body that helps to regulate mood. It does this by blocking the reabsorption, of Serotonin into nerve cells, which makes more Serotonin available in your brain.
Citalopram dosing & administration?
Citalopram has the following doses: there are 10mg, 20mg & 40 mg tablets
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Celexa should be administered at an initial dose of 20 mg once daily. If this is tolerated, within 1-2 weeks you can increase the dose to a maximum dose of 40 mg/day. Doses above 40 mg/day are not recommended due to the risk of QT prolongation.
What does QT prolongation mean? This means it takes longer for your heart muscle to recharge between beats. You would be at an increased risk of a heart arrhythmia.
The maximum dose for an older adult (I would say above the age of 65 years old) is 20mg/daily. Higher doses would lead to an increased chance of adverse drug reactions. Another group of individuals to be careful with are those who have severe renal disease.
How long should you be on this drug?
Most people are on this drug about 6 months on a maintenance dose. This is after the acute treatment for about a month or two. You should start noticing an improvement in your symptoms in a week or two, however, in some people it may take up to 4-6 weeks for you to feel better. If you do think it might not be helping in a week or two, do not suddenly STOP taking the pill without talking to your Doctor. If you need to be on the drug longer than the initial 6-9 months, please have a discussion with your Doctor.
What are the Side effects of Citalopram?
The most common side effects of Celexa include:
- GI side effects: nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
- Feeling tired, fatigued, or drowsy
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Headache
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
- Erectile dysfunction and loss of an orgasm
- Changes in weight
- Fast heart rate
- Increased sweating and feeling shaky
- Eye problems: dry eyes, blurred vision & halos around lights
- Feeling lightheaded
- Loss of co-ordination and feeling unsteady
- Dry mouth
- Hallucinations & agitation
7 must know tips if on Citalopram:
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1)Is it better to take Citalopram in the morning or at night?
Take citalopram once a day. You can take it with or without food. You can take Citalopram at any time of day, as long as you stick to the same time every day. If you have trouble sleeping, it’s best to take it in the morning.
2) Citalopram can make you feel less hungry, so you may lose weight when you first start taking it. Later, you may gain a little weight as your appetite returns. If you start to have problems with your weight while taking Citalopram, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
3) Citalopram can affect your sodium in your body. If your sodium is too low, you are at an increased chance of a seizure. Ask your health care provider to test for this occasionally.
4)Do not suddenly STOP taking Citalopram without telling your Doctor. You may end up with withdrawal symptoms.
5)If you have increased problems with bleeding or bruising or unexplained skin changes (such as blisters or rashes) inform your health care provider.This could be a side effect from the medication
6) If you experience worsening depression or suicidal thoughts while on Citalopram talk to your healthcare provider ASAP.
7)You are advised not to drink Alcohol and take Citalopram as it can amplify the side effects of the medication.
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