Celexa (citalopram)

How to use.

When using Celexa (citalopram), it is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication guide. The following are general guidelines for using Celexa:

1. Take the medication orally, with or without food, at the same time each day.
2. The recommended starting dose for adults is typically 20mg per day, taken as one tablet in the morning or evening.
3. The dosage may be increased or decreased by a healthcare provider based on the individual’s response to the medication.
4. It may take several weeks for the full effects of the medication to be felt.
5. Do not stop taking Celexa suddenly as it can cause withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor before stopping the medication.
6. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
7. Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider and let them know if you have any problems or side effects while taking the medication.
8. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking, as Celexa may interact with other medications.

It’s important to note that Celexa is a prescription medication, and it should only be used under the direction and supervision of a healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment with Celexa, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Side effects.

Warnings & Precautions

Celexa (citalopram) is a medication that should be used with caution and under the direction and supervision of a healthcare provider. The following are important warnings and precautions to be aware of before taking Celexa:

1. Suicidal thoughts and behavior: Celexa may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior, especially in children, teenagers, and young adults. Patients should be closely monitored for changes in behavior or mood.
2. Serotonin syndrome: Celexa may cause a rare but serious condition called serotonin syndrome, which can occur when the levels of serotonin in the body become too high. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, fever, and muscle stiffness. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
3. Withdrawal symptoms: Celexa can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly, so do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. They may want to taper down the dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Celexa should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It may cause harm to a developing fetus, so pregnant women should inform their healthcare provider before taking the medication. Women who are breastfeeding should also discuss the potential risks with their healthcare provider.
5. Interactions with other medications: Celexa may interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
6. Dosing: Celexa should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider first.
7. Alcohol consumption: Celexa may interact with alcohol and increase the risk of drowsiness, dizziness and other side effects, it’s better to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

It’s important to keep in mind that the safety and efficacy of Celexa have not been established in all populations, such as children under the age of 18 or older adults over the age of 65. If you have any pre-existing health conditions, discuss them with your healthcare provider before taking Celexa.

Storage.

Celexa (citalopram) tablets should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep the medication in its original container and protect it from light, moisture, and heat.

It’s important to keep the medication out of reach of children and pets, and dispose of any expired or unused tablets properly. Do not flush unused medication down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so.

Also, it’s important to be aware that Celexa, like any medication, has a shelf-life after which the medication may lose its potency and should be discarded. Always check the expiration date on the medication and do not use it after that date.

It’s a good idea to keep a record of your medication including the name, dose, and frequency of use, so you can easily inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if needed.

Remember that you should never share your medication with others, even if they have the same symptoms as you, as the medication is prescribed specifically for you and only you.

Drug interactions.

Celexa (citalopram) can interact with other medications, supplements, and herbal products, which can affect how the medication works or increase the risk of side effects.

Some medications that may interact with Celexa include:

1. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine, as these medications can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with Celexa.
2. Other antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as these may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
3. Medications that affect the level of serotonin in the body, such as lithium, tramadol, and St. John’s wort
4. Medications that affect the heart rhythm, such as quinidine, disopyramide, and amiodarone
5. Blood thinners such as warfarin
6. Medications that affect the blood pressure, such as clonidine, guanethidine, and methyldopa
7. Medications that affect the liver, such as cimetidine, omeprazole, and ritonavir
8. Medications that affect the blood sugar, such as insulin and oral diabetes medications

It’s important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and herbal products, before starting Celexa. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication if necessary.

Also, keep in mind that alcohol can interact with Celexa and increase the risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and other side effects, it’s better to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

Celexa (citalopram) vs Paxil (paroxetine).

Celexa (citalopram) and Paxil (paroxetine) are both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Both drugs work by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, which helps to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety.

While both medications are similar in terms of their mechanism of action, there are some differences between the two drugs.

• Celexa is generally considered to have fewer side effects than Paxil, and is less likely to cause weight gain or sexual dysfunction.
• Paxil is more likely to cause withdrawal symptoms when treatment is discontinued, whereas Celexa is generally better tolerated.
• Celexa is only FDA-approved for use in adults, whereas Paxil is also approved for use in children and adolescents.
• Paxil is also approved for use in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

It’s important to note that the effectiveness and side effects of both medications can vary from person to person, and the choice of medication will depend on individual patient characteristics and symptoms. It’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider to determine which medication is best for you.

Overdose.