Celexa or Citalopram is an antidepressant that doctors use to treat depression. Patients usually start at a lower dosage and gradually increase to the full dose. It may take as long as four weeks to get the full benefit of the drug, but in the mean time, you may experience some of the side effects of Celexa and wonder if they're normal. Some side effects you may experience include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Loss of Appetite
- Vomiting
- Stomach Pains
- Sweating
- Excitement
- Nervousness
- Pains in the Joints or Muscles
- Continual Tiredness or Drowsiness
- Dry Mouth
- Shaking That is Uncontrollable
While you may personally never experience any of the above side effects, if you do, they're usually mild in nature. However, if the side effects become serious or do not subside over a short period of time, you should definitely notify your doctor. There are other more serious side effects that some have reported including:
- Hallucinations or hearing voices
- Confusion
- Fast and Irregular Heartbeat
- Fever
- Extreme Sweating
- Severe Muscle Stiffness
- Seizures
As soon as you notice any of the above symptoms, call your doctor as soon as possible. Some less common effects of Celexa include drastic changes in blood pressure, pupil dilation, anxiousness, mood swings, and bruxism (gnashing of the teeth). If you notice a worsening of the psychiatric conditions that lead to taking the medicine in the first place, you should contact your doctor immediately. Other reasons to contact your doctor while taking Celexa include increased number of panic attacks, impulsive behavior, rapid rates of speech, and angry and hostile feelings and moods.
Keep in mind that Celexa is a great help for most people who want to control depression and mood disorders. It is only in a small percentage of people that experience side effects. By all means, discuss your medical history with your doctor and include all drugs, vitamins, and herbs that you're currently taking. This way, your doctor can make a proper recommendation for treatment.
Like many other drugs in its class, Celexa can lead to increased thoughts of suicide, especially in those under 24 years of age.
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