Many adults in the US take antidepressants, such as Citalopram, to help with their mental health. This article will discuss how Citalopram makes you feel and how it works. We will also discuss who can take it and who should avoid it.
We’ll cover the potential side effects of Citalopram, including common symptoms like headaches and sweating, as well as more severe side effects like seizures, suicidal thoughts, and mania. Toward the end of this article, we’ll also explore the withdrawal symptoms some people may experience when they stop taking Citalopram. We will discuss how to reduce the dosage to avoid these symptoms gradually.
What is Citalopram?
Citalopram is a medication commonly prescribed to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which increase serotonin levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood. Citalopram is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating these conditions and is available in tablet or liquid form.
How Does Citalopram Work?
Citalopram is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. By preventing the reabsorption of serotonin in brain cells, Citalopram allows it to remain active in the brain for more extended periods, which can help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage of Citalopram as directed by a healthcare provider to achieve the best results.
How Does Citalopram Make You Feel at First?
When starting to take Citalopram, you might feel sick or nauseous. Remember that after a few days, these feelings might become more substantial, and you may feel tired and dizzy, making it hard to do your daily activities. Other common side effects of Citalopram include dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. These side effects can become less severe over time or with a lower dose. If you experience any side effects while taking Citalopram, talking to a healthcare professional is essential.
How To Take Citalopram?
Citalopram is typically taken once daily, in the morning or evening, with or without meals. It is compatible with water and other liquids. The citalopram dose will be determined by the ailment being treated and the individual’s response to the medicine.
It is critical to take Citalopram precisely as directed by your doctor. Do not modify your prescription dosage or stop using it without visiting your doctor. It may take a few weeks to get the drug’s full effects, so be patient and continue to take it as advised.
Who Should Not Take It?
Those with congenital prolonged QT syndrome should avoid using this medication because it may exacerbate their condition; those with low potassium and magnesium levels should avoid taking it because it increases the risk. Anyone using Citalopram at a dose of 40mg per day should seek expert counsel. While it is generally considered safe and effective, certain groups of people should not take Citalopram. These include:
- Individuals who are allergic to Citalopram or any of its components
- People who are taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) within the last two weeks
- Those with a history of irregular heartbeat or heart attack
- Individuals with a history of seizures or epilepsy
- People with a history of manic episodes or bipolar disorder
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
It is essential to talk to your healthcare provider before taking Citalopram to determine if it is safe and appropriate for you.
Possible Side Effects
| Common side effects | Serious side effects |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea | Chest pain |
| Nausea | Loss of Breathing |
| Constipation | Fever |
| Yawning | Coma |
| Weakness | Loss of Coordination |
| Weight loss | Irregular heartbeat |
Precautions:
Citalopram is a medication that should only be used once a day and at regular intervals. As a result, care should be taken to ensure that dosages are not combined and sufficient time between two volumes. This can cause disorientation, restlessness, agitation, and various other symptoms. In addition, when Citalopram is recommended, alcohol and other illicit drugs must be avoided.
Drug Interactions:
Do not change or modify the prescription medication dosage without visiting your doctor. Aside from that, your doctor is already aware of Citalopram medication interactions and can be advised about them.
Citalopram may have significant interactions with the following medications:
- dronedarone
- ziprasidone
- selegiline
- isocarboxazid
- procarbazine phenelzine
- pimozide
- selegiline transdermal
- tranylcypromine
Citalopram interacts with 79 medications that cause severe effects, while 208 substances interact moderately with Citalopram.
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Final Words From AzDrug
To summarize, Citalopram is a medication used to treat depression in various forms and doses. Consult your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage or alter your current one. Do not act alone since Citalopram overdose has several severe adverse effects. The medicine will first weaken your body, which will diminish within the first week but may recur.
If you have any questions or concerns about how to take Citalopram, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. They can provide more detailed instructions and advice based on your situation.
Does citalopram make you feel weird at first?
Some people may experience initial side effects like mild dizziness or nausea when starting citalopram, but these often improve with continued use.
Can citalopram make you feel spaced out?
Feeling spaced out can be a side effect of citalopram for some individuals. If it persists or is bothersome, consult your healthcare provider.
When is the best time of day to take citalopram?
Citalopram can be taken at any time of day, but it's commonly accepted in the morning to minimize potential sleep disturbances.
Is citalopram sedating or activating?
Citalopram is generally considered activating, but individual responses may vary.
Does citalopram make you sleepy?
Citalopram can cause drowsiness in some people, particularly when initiating treatment.