Category Archives: Citalopram Side Effects

Citalopram side effects

What Are The Long-Term Side Effects of Citalopram (Celexa)?

Citalopram, also known by its brand name Celexa, is an antidepressant medication that is commonly used to treat depression, anxiety and panic disorders. While it is generally considered to be a safe and effective medication, long-term use of citalopram can lead to some side effects.

One of the most common long-term side effects of citalopram is decreased sexual function, which can include decreased libido, difficulty achieving an orgasm, and impotence. This can be distressing for some people, and it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Another long-term side effect of citalopram is weight gain. Some people may gain weight while taking citalopram, which can be due to changes in appetite and metabolism. If you experience weight gain while taking citalopram, be sure to talk to your doctor.

Citalopram can also cause changes in sleep patterns, including insomnia or excessive drowsiness. This can be especially problematic if you are already experiencing sleep problems, and it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any changes in your sleep patterns while taking citalopram.

In rare cases, long-term use of citalopram can cause a condition called tardive dyskinesia, which is characterized by involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or other body parts. This can be a serious side effect, and it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any unusual movements while taking citalopram.

In addition, some people may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking citalopram suddenly, especially if they have been taking it for a long period of time. Withdrawal symptoms can include headache, dizziness, irritability, and insomnia, and they can be severe in some cases. To avoid withdrawal symptoms, it is important to gradually reduce the dose of citalopram under the supervision of a doctor.

It is important to talk to your doctor about the potential long-term side effects of citalopram, and to discuss any concerns you may have about taking this medication. Your doctor can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks of citalopram, and determine if it is the right medication for you.

Citalopram 20 mg side effects

Citalopram is an antidepressant medication that is commonly used to treat depression, anxiety and panic disorders. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain, which can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. The recommended starting dose of citalopram is usually 20 mg taken orally once a day, usually in the morning.

Like all medications, citalopram can cause side effects, and some people may experience more side effects than others. Some of the most common side effects of citalopram 20 mg include:

Nausea: This is one of the most common side effects and can occur in the first few days of taking the medication. It usually goes away after a few days.
Diarrhea: This can be a side effect of citalopram, especially in the first few days of taking the medication.
Constipation: This can also be a side effect of citalopram and can occur as a result of the medication altering the normal balance of bacteria in the intestines.
Headache: This is a common side effect of citalopram and can be caused by the medication’s effect on the blood vessels in the head.
Drowsiness: This can be a side effect of citalopram, especially when first starting the medication or if the dose is increased.
Dizziness: This can occur as a result of changes in blood pressure and balance caused by the medication.
Trouble sleeping: Some people may have trouble sleeping while taking citalopram, especially if they take the medication in the evening.
Increased sweating: This can be a side effect of citalopram, especially in people who are prone to sweating.
Decreased sex drive or difficulty achieving an orgasm: This is a common side effect of citalopram and can be distressing for some people.
Dry mouth: This can be a side effect of citalopram and can be due to the medication decreasing the production of saliva.
There are also some serious side effects that require immediate medical attention, including:

Allergic reactions: If you experience a rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Seizures: This is a rare but serious side effect that requires immediate medical attention.
Changes in vision: If you experience changes in vision, such as blurring, double vision, or seeing halos around lights, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Hallucinations: If you experience hallucinations, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Unusual behavior: If you experience unusual behavior or thoughts, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat: If you experience a fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Mania: If you experience mania, which is characterized by unusual excitement, agitation, and irritability, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
It’s important to talk to your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking citalopram. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dose or switch you to a different medication if necessary. It’s also important to note that everyone’s experience with citalopram is unique, and not everyone will experience the same side effects. If you are having trouble managing your side effects, or if your side effects are affecting your quality of life, be sure to talk to your doctor.

Citalopram (Oral Route) Side Effect

Citalopram is an antidepressant medication that is commonly used to treat depression, anxiety and panic disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). When taken orally, citalopram works by increasing the level of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain.

Like all medications, citalopram can cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects include:

Nausea: This is one of the most common side effects and usually goes away after a few days of taking the medication.
Diarrhea: This can occur as a result of the medication altering the normal balance of bacteria in the intestines.
Constipation: This is another digestive side effect that can occur as a result of taking citalopram.
Headache: This is a common side effect and can be caused by the medication’s effect on the blood vessels in the head.
Drowsiness: This can be a side effect, especially when first starting the medication or if the dose is increased.
Dizziness: This can occur as a result of changes in blood pressure and balance caused by the medication.
Trouble sleeping: Some people taking citalopram may have trouble sleeping, especially if they take the medication in the evening.
Increased sweating: This can be a side effect of taking citalopram, especially in people who are prone to sweating.
Decreased sex drive or difficulty achieving an orgasm: This is a common side effect and can be distressing for some people.
Dry mouth: This is a common side effect of citalopram and can be due to the medication decreasing the production of saliva.
There are also some serious side effects that require immediate medical attention, including:

Allergic reactions: If you experience a rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Seizures: This is a rare but serious side effect that requires immediate medical attention.
Changes in vision: If you experience changes in vision, such as blurring, double vision, or seeing halos around lights, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Hallucinations: If you experience hallucinations, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Unusual behavior: If you experience unusual behavior or thoughts, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat: If you experience a fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
Mania: If you experience mania, which is characterized by unusual excitement, agitation, and irritability, stop taking citalopram and seek medical attention immediately.
It’s important to talk to your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking citalopram. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dose or switch you to a different medication if necessary.