Celexa
Generic Name: Citalopram
What is Celexa?
Celexa is used for the treatment of depression.What is the most important information I should know about Celexa?
Antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. Patients of all ages who are started on antidepressants or are taking a new dose should be watched closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual behavior. Patients and their families should contact the doctor immediately if new symptoms develop or seem to get worse. Signs to watch for include anxiety, hostility, sleeplessness, restlessness, impulsive or dangerous behavior, and thoughts about suicide or dying.Celexa may cause the development of potentially life-threatening reactions known as serotonin syndrome or neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) when taken alone or in combination with other drugs. Symptoms may include mental status changes, increase in heart rate and temperature, incoordination, overactive reflexes, muscle rigidity, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these signs or symptoms.
Who should not take Celexa?
Do not take Celexa if you are taking pimozide, a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor, or if you have stopped taking an MAOI in the last 14 days.Do not take if you are allergic to Celexa or any of its components.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Celexa?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Celexa. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or kidney problems, seizures or bleeding disorders, or a history of suicide or mania.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The recommended starting dose of Celexa tablets or oral solution is 20 milligrams (mg) taken once daily. The dose is usually increased to 40 mg once daily after at least a week has passed.
For older adults and individuals with liver problems, the recommended dose is 20 mg taken once daily.
How should I take Celexa?
Celexa should be taken once a day. You can take it either in the morning or in the evening with or without food.What should I avoid while taking Celexa?
You should not drink alcohol while taking Celexa. Also, use caution when driving or operating dangerous equipment until you are familiar with Celexa's effects.Do not abruptly discontinue Celexa. Abrupt discontinuation may result in irritability, agitation, dizziness, emotional ups and downs, headache, or sleepiness.
Do not take Lexapro (escitalopram) while you are taking Celexa, since the two drugs are similar and could have increased effects.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Celexa?
If Celexa is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Celexa with any of the following: alcohol, antidepressants, aspirin, carbamazepine, cimetidine, digoxin, ketoconazole, linezolid, lithium, MAOIs, NSAIDs, omeprazole, pimozide, St. John's wort, sumatriptan, theophylline, tramadol, triazolam, and warfarin.What are the possible side effects of Celexa?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, insomnia, increased sweating, tremor, diarrhea, ejaculation disorder
Can I receive Celexa if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Celexa during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Celexa?
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Celexa?
Store at room temperature.
