CelexaŽ
(citalopram) is used to treat
depression by helping to restore
the balance of certain natural
chemicals in the brain.
Celexa Directions?
Take this medication
by mouth usually once daily, with or without
food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage
is based on your medical condition and response
to therapy. It is important to continue taking
this medication as prescribed even if you
feel well. Also, do not stop taking this medication
without consulting your doctor. It may take
up to several weeks before the full benefit
of this drug takes effect.
Celexa Side Effects?
Nausea, drowsiness,
diarrhea, trouble sleeping, upset stomach,
or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects
persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these
serious side effects occur: vomiting, loss
of appetite, unusual or severe mental/mood
changes, increased sweating/flushing, unusual
fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor).
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these
unlikely but serious side effects occur: blurred
vision, stomach pain, fever, joint pain, muscle
pain, unusually fast heartbeat, decreased
interest in sex, changes in sexual ability,
change in amount of urine. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these highly unlikelybut
very serious side effects occur: weight changes,
taste changes, changes in menstrual period,
unusual swelling of the hands/feet/face, seizures,
painful and/or prolonged erection. If you
notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
Celexa Warnings?
Tell your doctor your
medical history, especially of: liver problems,
kidney problems, seizures, heart problems,
other mental/mood disorders (e.g., bipolar
disorder), thyroid problems, any allergies.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use
caution engaging in activities requiring alertness
such as driving or using machinery. Limit
alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when
using this product in the elderly because
they may be more sensitive to the effects
of the drug. This medication should be used
only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This drug passes into breast milk. Because
of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding
while using this drug is not recommended.
Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Celexa Drug Interactions?
Certain medications
taken with this product could result in serious,
even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid taking
MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, isocarboxazid,
linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine,
selegiline, tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks
before or after treatment with this medication.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional
information. This drug is not recommended
for use with: weight loss drugs (e.g., sibutramine,
phentermine). Ask your doctor or pharmacist
for more details. Tell your doctor of all
prescription and nonprescription medication
you may use, especially: other SSRI antidepressants
(e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), nefazodone,
trazodone, tramadol, venlafaxine, "triptan"
migraine drugs (e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan),
tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline,
nortriptyline), cimetidine, lithium, itraconazole,
macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin,
erythromycin), any herbal/ natural products
(e.g., melatonin, St John's wort, ayahuasca).
Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that
cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep,
sedatives, tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs
(e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers
(e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g.,
phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), anti-seizure
drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants,
certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine).
Do not start or stop any medicine without
doctor or pharmacist approval.
Celexa Missed Dose?
Take the missed dose
as soon as you remember. However, if it is
almost time for the next regularly scheduled
dose, skip the missed dose and take the next
one as directed. Do not take a double
dose of this medication unless otherwise directed
by your doctor.
Celexa Storage?
Store it at room temperature
away from sunlight and moisture. Keep this
and all medications out of the reach of children.
Anything Else I Should
Know About Celexa?
Celexa is in a class
of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake
inhibitors. Celexa affects chemicals in the
brain that may become unbalanced and cause
depression. Celexa is used to treat depression.
NOTE: The above
information is intended to supplement, not
substitute for, the expertise and judgment
of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe,
appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before taking
the product.
