Description

Celexa Uses, Benefits & Side Effects, Safety Information

What is Lexapro?

Celexa is a brand name for the prescription drug citalopram, an antidepressant. It is one of a group of medicines known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is primarily prescribed by healthcare professionals for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults.

Celexa works by increasing the amount of a brain chemical messenger called serotonin, which helps to regulate mood and mental health. But it works differently for each individual, and it may take a few weeks to see a big improvement.

What Is Celexa For?

The primary approved use of Celexa is to treat depression. Depression can impact the way you feel, sleep, eat and think, and can also affect your energy and interest in daily activities.

With the proper medical supervision, treatment can help to improve these symptoms over time. The health professional may also talk about other ways to treat you, such as talk therapy, healthy habits and regular follow-up appointments.

Doctors may sometimes prescribe citalopram for conditions not listed in the patient information leaflet. Talk about the possible benefits and risks of using citalopram for your condition with your doctor, pharmacist or nurse.

How Does Clexa Work?

It works on serotonin, a neurotransmitter that controls mood. Specifically, it blocks the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, resulting in higher levels of serotonin in the space between nerve cells.

This leads to gradual improvements in mood and daily functioning in some people. But Celexa isn’t an instant solution Patients should follow their prescribed treatment plan and attend follow-up visits.

Potential Advantages of Celexa

When used properly, Celexa can help people cope with the symptoms of depression. Possible improvements are

• Improved mood and emotional state.
• Increasing interest in daily activities.
• Fewer feelings of sadness.
• Better focus as your depression symptoms get better.
• Better daily functioning.

But the results differ from person to person. A healthcare professional can check progress and determine if treatment remains appropriate.

Common Celexa Side Effects

Celexa can cause side effects like other prescription medicines. Typical examples are:

• Queasiness.
• Dry mouth.
• More sweating.
• Drowsiness or trouble sleeping.
• Tiredness.
• Sexual side effect.
• Changes in appetite.

Some side effects improve as your body adjusts to treatment. However, if symptoms are persistent, severe or concerning, patients should inform their healthcare professional.

Safety Precautions of Importance

Tell your healthcare provider about your medical history and all the medicines or supplements you take before you start taking Celexa. This information is useful in determining potential interactions and safety concerns.

When taken with some medications that increase serotonin levels, citalopram can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include agitation, fever, sweating, confusion, and tremors or muscle stiffness. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop these symptoms.

Citalopram may also affect the electrical rhythm of your heart and increase your risk of a condition called QT prolongation. Special precautions may be necessary for certain heart problems, low levels of potassium or magnesium, or interacting medicines.

Antidepressants can cause some children, teenagers, and young adults to become more suicidal, especially in the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed. If you have new or worsening mood changes or thoughts of suicide, call a healthcare professional right away. If you are in immediate danger, call for emergency help.

Can You Go to Cold Turkey Off Celexa?

Do not suddenly stop taking it without advice from your doctor. If you stop suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and odd sensations in the body.

Instead, your healthcare professional may recommend a gradual reduction in dose when appropriate. Follow the instructions given and never change your dose on your own.

Celexa Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Celexa to start working?

Some people notice changes early, within a couple of weeks, but the full benefits may take several weeks or more. Your response depends on individual factors and your treatment plan.

Is Celexa used for anxiety?

Some health professionals may also prescribe citalopram off-label for certain anxiety-related conditions. But it’s not suitable for everyone, and you should discuss treatment options with your clinician.

Celexa and sleep problems.

Yes. Some feel sleepy; others have difficulty sleeping. If these effects continue or are bothersome, please let your healthcare professional know.

Is Celexa safe for everyone?

Not a medicine that fits everybody. Your healthcare professional will review your medical history, other medications, and individual risks before prescribing it

Summary

Celexa is a prescription antidepressant that doctors prescribe for adults with major depressive disorder. It can help to improve mood and day-to-day functioning, but benefits tend to develop slowly. At the same time, patients should know about its possible side effects, interactions, and precautions.