When do i take celexa

The generic form of Celexa is called citalopram, and the generic form of Zoloft is called sertraline. Generic Celexa tablets generally cost about the same as generic Zoloft tablets. Stopping Celexa too quickly can make you feel ill. You may have withdrawal symptoms that last days to weeks, which is known as discontinuation syndrome. Symptoms can include:.

If you need to stop taking Celexa, your doctor will help you decrease your dose slowly to help avoid these symptoms. The medication works in part through its activity in the brain and nervous system. Alcohol can also affect the brain and nervous system and make you tired.

In addition, drinking alcohol may cloud thinking and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. So drinking alcohol while taking Celexa may put you at risk for harm. If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor about the possible risks and whether Celexa is right for you. Celexa can interact with several other medications. It can also interact with certain supplements as well as certain foods. Different interactions can cause different effects.

For instance, some interactions can interfere with how well a drug works. Other interactions can increase the number of side effects or make them more severe.

Below is a list of medications that can interact with Celexa. Before taking Celexa, talk with your doctor and pharmacist. Tell them about all prescription, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take. Also tell them about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use. Sharing this information can help you avoid potential interactions. If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Taking Celexa and the pain medication tramadol may increase your risk for serotonin syndrome high levels of the chemical serotonin. They may monitor your side effects during treatment or suggest different medications. The CNS includes your brain and spinal cord.

They may need to monitor your side effects or suggest a different combination of medications. Using Celexa with certain other antidepressants may increase your risk for serotonin syndrome.

Other types of these antidepressants include serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors SNRIs , selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs, and tricyclic antidepressants. Taking more than one antidepressant at a time can increase your risk of bleeding. They can review your medications and recommend the right treatment for you. Celexa can increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you take it with other drugs that can also increase bleeding risk. Drugs known as triptans can be used to treat migraine.

Taking a triptan with Celexa can increase the risk of developing serotonin syndrome. The medication carbamazepine Tegretol may speed up the breakdown of Celexa in the body. So in theory, taking carbamazepine with Celexa could cause Celexa to not work correctly. Taking Celexa and lithium Lithobid together may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

They may monitor you more closely during treatment or suggest different medications. One study showed that taking Celexa and pimozide can increase the risk of a type of heart rhythm problem called QT prolongation. Your doctor should monitor you for changes in heart rhythm if you have to take these drugs together. Be sure to tell them if you have any dizziness or heart palpitations feeling of skipped or extra heartbeats. If you take Celexa and ketoconazole together, it may decrease the amount of ketoconazole in your body.

They may monitor your level of ketoconazole or recommend a different medication for you. They may decrease your dose of Celexa or suggest a different medication for you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before using any herbal or supplement products while taking Celexa. Taking St. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially serious condition that requires treatment. If you have symptoms of serotonin syndrome, tell your doctor right away. If you take St. They may have you pause your use of the supplement during your Celexa treatment.

Studies looked at babies born to pregnant women who were given Celexa during their last trimester 3 months. The babies were more likely to be hospitalized, be fed through a tube, or need breathing support. Withdrawal syndrome can occur after babies are born and all of a sudden they no longer have Celexa in their system.

Some studies have shown that Celexa and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs may increase the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn PPHN. In addition, research has shown that women who stop taking antidepressants during pregnancy were more likely to have their depression return.

This is compared with women who continued to take antidepressants while pregnant. They can discuss the pros of Celexa treatment as well as the possible side effects with you. For some people, the benefits are very clear, and taking the medication makes sense. But for others, a different medication may be a better option. Celexa is present in the breast milk of nursing mothers.

Two infants who were breastfed by mothers taking Celexa were reported to have drowsiness, decreased appetite, and weight loss. If you plan to breastfeed while taking Celexa, first talk with your doctor. They can help you consider the benefits of taking Celexa, other treatment options, and potential side effects to watch for in your child.

As with all medications, the cost of Celexa can vary. To find current prices for Celexa in your area, check out GoodRx. The cost you find on GoodRx. Your insurance plan may require you to get prior authorization before approving coverage for Celexa. This means that your doctor will need to send a request to your insurance company asking them to cover the drug. The insurance company will review the request and let you and your doctor know if your plan will cover Celexa.

If you need financial support to pay for Celexa, or if you need help understanding your insurance coverage, help may be available through your local pharmacy. Talk with your pharmacist about ways to save on your prescription. You can take it in the morning or evening.

In some situations, your doctor may adjust your dose, requiring you to split tablets. A pill cutter can make splitting tablets easier. The mg and mg Celexa tablets have score lines to help you split them evenly. If you have trouble swallowing tablets, talk with your doctor. They may recommend generic forms of Celexa that are available as an oral liquid solution and a tablet that dissolves on your tongue.

Celexa is used to treat depression in adults. Depression is caused by certain chemicals being out of balance in the body and brain. These chemicals include serotonin and dopamine. Major depressive disorder MDD is a type of long-term depression in which you often have feelings of depression that last for long periods of time.

Celexa works by increasing the level of serotonin in the central nervous system CNS and creating a better balance of the chemicals in your body and brain. If you have MDD, Celexa may help improve your mood, sleep, feelings, and enjoyment of daily activities. You may notice your symptoms of depression ease after taking Celexa for a couple of weeks.

In some cases, it may be closer to a month to see changes in how you feel. Celexa is usually taken long term months to years. A study looked at many different antidepressants and found that the use of some antidepressants caused a greater risk of hair loss than others. Celexa was neither the most nor least likely to cause hair loss. If you have concerns about losing your hair, talk with your doctor. They can review your medications and explore possible reasons for your hair loss.

Celexa may be prescribed to treat agitation caused by dementia. If you or a loved one has dementia and are thinking about taking Celexa, talk with your doctor. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of the medication and decide on the best treatment options. However, Celexa, like other antidepressants, may increase your risk of bleeding.

These medications may also increase your risk of bleeding. Some benzodiazepines include:. However, you should be cautious about driving or operating machinery until you know how these drugs affect you. Both Celexa and benzodiazepines can affect your central nervous system and cause drowsiness, clouded thinking, or dizziness. So taking these medications together may increase your risk for these side effects. Celexa itself can make you drowsy or fatigued lacking energy.

Before taking other medications or supplements, be sure to talk with your doctor and understand how Celexa is affecting you. However, if you have heart problems, your doctor may monitor you more closely or choose other medications to treat your depression. This is because Celexa can increase the risk of palpitations feeling of skipped or extra heartbeats , abnormal heart rhythms , and bleeding. So before you start Celexa treatment, be sure to share a list of all of your medications and supplements with your doctor.

This drug has a boxed warning. A boxed warning alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous. According to short-term studies , antidepressants such as Celexa may increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in people younger than age 25 years. This includes children, adolescents, and young adults. Keep in mind that depression and some other psychiatric disorders can also increase your risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior.

Your loved ones should watch for these signs, too. Before taking Celexa, talk with your doctor about your health history. Celexa may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. These include:. You can also call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at or use their online tool.

But if your symptoms are severe, call or go to the nearest emergency room right away. When you get Celexa from the pharmacy, the pharmacist will add an expiration date to the label on the bottle.

This date is typically 1 year from the date they dispensed the medication. The expiration date helps guarantee the effectiveness of the medication during this time. If you have unused medication that has gone past the expiration date, talk with your pharmacist about whether you might still be able to use it. How long a medication remains good can depend on many factors, including how and where you store the medication.

Avoid keeping this medication in areas where it could get damp or wet, such as in bathrooms. This helps prevent others, including children and pets, from taking the drug by accident. It also helps keep the drug from harming the environment. The FDA website provides several useful tips on medication disposal. You can also ask your pharmacist for information on how to dispose of your medication.

There are several off-label uses of Celexa that have varying levels of evidence behind them. Celexa is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor SSRI that blocks neuronal reuptake of serotonin in the central nervous system, increasing available serotonin concentrations. Celexa has little impact on dopamine and norepinephrine receptors. Celexa reaches peak blood concentrations about 4 hours after dosing. Steady-state concentrations are expected after about 1 week.

Elimination half-life is about 35 hours. In clinical trials , Celexa had longer half-lives in older adults and was found in higher concentrations in this population. Most clinically significant changes occur through augmentation of the CYP2C19 pathway. Poor metabolizers of CYP2C19 should receive a maximum dose of 20 mg of Celexa due to increased risk for QT prolongation and torsades de pointes with increased drug concentrations observed in people with certain polymorphisms.

The two treatments should not overlap at any time as this increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Concomitant use of pimozide and Celexa places the patient at risk for serious cardiac side effects such as QT prolongation or arrhythmias. Celexa is contraindicated in people who have had a hypersensitivity allergic reaction to citalopram or any inactive ingredients in Celexa in the past. Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up-to-date.

However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. But speak to a pharmacist or your doctor if you're trying to get pregnant.

They may want to review your treatment. Citalopram will not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill or emergency contraception. The good effects of citalopram may, after a while, improve your sex life as your mood lifts and you become interested in life and relationships again.

Sexual side effects usually pass after the first couple of weeks. However, very rarely, they can be long lasting and may not get better even after stopping the medicine.

If these happen and are a problem for you, go back to your doctor to see if there's another treatment you can try. You can drink alcohol while taking citalopram, but it may make you feel sleepy.

It might be best to stop drinking alcohol until you see how the medicine makes you feel. Antidepressants, including citalopram, are just one of several approaches to treating depression. Choosing a treatment that's most suitable for you depends on how long you have had depression, your symptoms, whether you have had any previous bouts of depression, whether previous treatment has worked, how likely you are to stick with your treatment, the potential side effects, and your preferences and priorities.

Citalopram and escitalopram are both medicines used to treat depression. Cannabis can also make drowsiness worse with citalopram, especially in people who have just started taking it. Methadone can increase the risk of side effects in people taking citalopram. Talk to your doctor if you think you might use recreational drugs while taking citalopram. Page last reviewed: 10 December Next review due: 10 December Citalopram - Brand name: Cipramil On this page About citalopram Key facts Who can and cannot take citalopram How and when to take citalopram Side effects How to cope with side effects of citalopram Pregnancy and breastfeeding Cautions with other medicines Common questions about citalopram.

About citalopram Citalopram is a type of antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor SSRI. Help us improve our website Can you answer a quick question about your visit today? It usually takes 4 to 6 weeks for citalopram to work. Side effects such as tiredness, dry mouth and sweating are common. They're usually mild and go away after a couple of weeks.

If you and your doctor decide to take you off citalopram, your doctor may recommend reducing your dose gradually to help prevent extra side effects. Do not take St John's wort while you're taking citalopram. It will increase your risk of side effects. Citalopram can be taken by adults and children over the age of 12 years. Check with your doctor before starting citalopram if you: have had an allergic reaction to citalopram or any other medicines in the past have a heart problem — citalopram can speed up or change your heartbeat have ever taken any other medicines for depression — some rarely used antidepressants can interact with citalopram to cause very high blood pressure , even when they have been stopped for a few weeks are trying to become pregnant, already pregnant or breastfeeding have an eye condition called glaucoma — citalopram can increase the pressure in your eye have epilepsy or are having electroconvulsive treatment — citalopram may increase your risk of having a seizure If you have diabetes , citalopram can make it more difficult to keep your blood sugar stable.

Take citalopram once a day. You can take it with or without food. If you have trouble sleeping, it's best to take it in the morning. Dosage Citalopram tablets come in different strengths ranging from 10mg to 40mg.

With liquid drops of citalopram, 4 drops is equivalent to a 10mg tablet. What if I forget to take it? If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. What if I take too much? Urgent advice: Call your doctor straight away if:. You have taken too much citalopram and have symptoms such as: being sick vomiting shaking feeling sleepy fast heart rate fits or seizures. Common side effects Common side effects happen in more than 1 in people.

Keep taking the medicine, but talk to your doctor or pharmacist if these side effects bother you or do not go away: dry mouth sweating a lot being unable to sleep feeling sleepy feeling tired or weak Serious side effects Serious side effects are rare and happen in less than 1 in 1, people.

Information: You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme. Visit Yellow Card for further information. What to do about: dry mouth — chew sugar-free gum or sugar-free sweets sweating a lot — try wearing loose clothing, use a strong anti-perspirant and keep cool using a fan if possible. If this does not help, you may need to try a different type of antidepressant. Do not drive or use tools or machinery if you're feeling sleepy. If this does not help, talk to your doctor.

Cut down the amount of alcohol you drink as it can make you feel worse. Citalopram and pregnancy It's important for you and your baby that you stay well during your pregnancy. Citalopram and breastfeeding If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, citalopram can be used during breastfeeding.

Non-urgent advice: Tell your doctor if you're:. Tell your doctor if you're taking these medicines before you start citalopram : any medicines that affect your heartbeat — citalopram can speed up or change your heartbeat any other medicines for depression — some rarely used antidepressants can interact with citalopram to cause very high blood pressure even when they have been stopped for a few weeks Mixing citalopram with herbal remedies and supplements Do not take St John's wort, the herbal remedy for depression, while you're being treated with citalopram as this will increase your risk of side effects.

Important: Medicine safety Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking any other medicines, including herbal medicines, vitamins or supplements. How does citalopram work? When will I feel better?

If you are under 18, you and your doctor may decide that the benefits of taking citalopram outweigh the risks for you.

You should decide with your doctor what to do if you experience any side effects while taking citalopram. If you are taking citalopram and have not talked about this with your doctor, go back to them and talk it through. You might also want to talk to your parents or carers about it.

SSRIs can, but not very often, increase your risk of bleeding, including intestinal stomach or gut bleeding. Let your doctor know if you vomit blood or develop black or blood-stained poo. Do not stop taking the tablets until you talk to your doctor, or you may get withdrawal symptoms as well.

If you do get a side effect, please think about reporting it via the 'Yellow Card' scheme. Citalopram can affect the way your heart works and should be used carefully with certain medications. Citalopram and escitalopram a very similar medicine can change the way electricity goes through the heart called the QT length. Escitalopram has less of this effect on the heart. Before starting citalopram your doctor may check your heart using an electrocardiogram ECG.

If you're taking any other medicines that affect your heart, your doctor may decide to use a different medicine or check your heart on a regular basis. We use cookies We use cookies on this website to store user preferences, aid in accessibility and analyse our traffic.

Read our cookie policy. Accept all cookie usage. Update cookie preferences. Open guide menu Skip to guide menu. I am a young person I am a parent I work with young people. Open site search Open main navigation. View shareable links View Basket : 0 items. Guide Menu for Citalopram. Hide Show guide menu. Guide contents jump to section About citalopram Citalopram and everyday life Uses, warnings, safety and side effects About this information More information and advice. My experience taking fluoxetine and citalopram for PTSD.

Taking citalopram for agoraphobia and depression. About citalopram. Please note. Always talk to your doctor about your situation and whether this medication is for you. Thinking about trying medication? Read our guide. How citalopram works. Citalopram is a type of antidepressant called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor SSRI. Citalopram is often prescribed alongside a talking therapy.

Citalopram and everyday life. Frequently asked questions. How long does it take to start working? What effects will it have on my body? Citalopram can cause people to lose weight when they first start talking it. Should I tell my family and friends I am taking it? Will it affect my sleep? Can I drink alcohol and take street drugs while taking it?

Alcohol You can continue to drink alcohol in moderation while taking citalopram. Street drugs Citalopram does not mix well with street drugs or legal highs. Cannabis can make drowsiness worse with citalopram and give you a fast heartbeat.

Can I take it with other medications? Citalopram can interact with some other medicines and drugs. I have allergies and food intolerances. Is there anything I need to know? The drops contain a small amount of alcohol, but not enough to affect your blood alcohol level. Can I drive while taking it?

Do not drive or ride a bike just after you start taking citalopram. Don't worry - most people drive as normal while taking citalopram.

Can I take it if I am pregnant or breastfeeding? Pregnancy If you become pregnant while you are on citalopram, you should carry on taking it and go back to your doctor as soon as possible to see if you should change or stop your medicine. Post-natal If citalopram is taken in the last five months of a pregnancy, it can cause a serious condition called persistent pulmonary hypertension of the new-born PPHN.

There are some other symptoms that can occur in newborn babies if citalopram is taken in the last three months of pregnancy, so do look out for these and get help if they happen: seizures fits or shaking being too hot or cold feeding difficulties or being sick Breastfeeding Breastfeeding may help offset any withdrawal symptoms.

Will it affect my sex life or fertility? Sex Citalopram can have side effects that might affect your sex life. These include: painful erections, problems with getting an erection getting hard and ejaculating coming bleeding from the vagina and difficulty reaching orgasm coming the same way as before lower sex drive These effects should pass after the first couple of weeks.

Fertility Citalopram is unlikely to affect your chances of having children. Will it affect my ability to play sports? Citalopram is not a banned substance in sport. It might be best to stop such sports for the first few days, until you know how it affects you.

Don't worry - most people play sports as normal while taking citalopram. Will it affect my ability to take exams? Try not to take citalopram for the first time just before your exams. Don't worry - most people take exams as normal while taking citalopram.

I started feeling like I could be around people and could enjoy things again. Taking citalopram to treat depression: Rachel's story. Your doctor should know.