Celexa (Citalopram)

Description

Celexa, which is the brand name for a medicine called Citalopram, is used to help people with depression. It belongs to a group of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. Celexa works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain, which is a chemical that may help promote a balanced mood. Doctors typically prescribe Celexa for major depressive disorder.

Directions

Celexa is typically taken orally as a tablet. The usual dosage is 20 to 40 mg once daily with or without food, and it's best to be consistent with the timing—either in the morning or the evening. For people over 60 years old, those with liver problems, and individuals who metabolize certain medications slowly, the maximum recommended dosage is 20 mg once daily. If you need to stop taking Celexa, it’s important to gradually reduce the dosage rather than stopping suddenly.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Celexa is Citalopram.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Current or recent use of MAOIs, including Linezolid or intravenous methylene blue
• Known hypersensitivity to Citalopram or Escitalopram
• Concurrent use with pimozide

Cautions

• Before starting treatment with Celexa, make sure to inform your healthcare provider if you have:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Young adults under 24 may have a higher risk of suicidal thoughts while taking Celexa, especially during the first few months or after dose changes. If you or someone you care for experiences unusual mood changes or thoughts of self-harm, contact a doctor immediately. Family members should stay alert for these signs.
• Celexa can affect your heart's rhythm, which might lead to serious complications. Avoid it if you have a history of heart issues like long QT syndrome or low levels of potassium or magnesium. Regular heart monitoring is recommended if you're at risk.
• Combining Celexa with certain medications, like other antidepressants or herbal supplements (e.g., St. John’s Wort), may cause serotonin syndrome, a serious condition. Symptoms include confusion, rapid heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness, and nausea. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
• Celexa may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you’re also taking aspirin, NSAIDs, or blood thinners like warfarin. Be aware of unusual bruising, nosebleeds, or signs of internal bleeding like black stools.
• Celexa can trigger manic episodes in people with bipolar disorder. Discuss any personal or family history of bipolar disorder with your doctor before starting Celexa.
• Suddenly stopping Celexa may cause withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, irritability, or "electric shock" sensations. Always taper off gradually under a doctor's guidance.
• Celexa may increase the risk of seizures, especially if you have a history of them. Let your doctor know if you’ve ever had a seizure.
• Celexa can trigger an angle-closure glaucoma attack in people with narrow angles in the eye. If you experience eye pain or vision changes, get immediate medical help.
• Celexa can cause dangerously low sodium levels, particularly in older adults or people taking diuretics. Watch for confusion, weakness, or severe fatigue, and seek medical advice if these symptoms occur.
• Celexa may affect sexual function, including reduced libido or difficulty achieving orgasm. If this occurs, discuss possible solutions with your doctor.

Side Effects

Celexa may cause delayed ejaculation in males, which is its most commonly reported side effect. Other common side effects include nausea, headache, fatigue, and changes in sleep patterns. While these are usually mild, let your healthcare provider know if they persist or become bothersome.

Celexa can lead to serious heart rhythm problems, serotonin syndrome, and an increased risk of bleeding, especially if taken with blood thinners or NSAIDs. It may also cause low sodium levels, particularly in elderly individuals, which can lead to confusion, seizures, or fainting. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, hallucinations, severe agitation, or unusual bleeding.

References

1. Celexa (Citalopram) Product Monograph. North Chicago, IL: AbbVie Inc.; 2023.
2. Celexa (Citalopram) Drug Label Information. North Chicago, IL: AbbVie Inc.; 2023.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....