Citalopram is an antidepressant medication known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Doctors believe that the drug can improve a patient's mood by increasing the amount of the mood-regulating chemical serotonin in the brain. The Mayo Clinic cautions that citalopram should not be taken with other types of antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors as this may cause dangerous side effects including increased blood pressure and seizures.
Neurological Changes
As with any drug that works in the brain, there are potential neurological side effects. Some common side effects include drowsiness with difficulty sleeping and anxiety. Patients may also experience dry mouth. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, patients should consult with their physician.
Serious neurological side effects have also been known to occur in patients taking citalopram. Information from the National Library of Medicine warns about the drug's potential to increase suicidal thoughts. Teenagers and young adults are especially at risk of having thoughts about harming themselves. They may also feel agitated and aggressive, suffer panic attacks, and exhibit restless and manic, or frenzied, behaviors. Some patients may have blurred vision.
Even after patients stop taking citalopram, they may experience anxiety, dizziness and shaking. Patients should speak with their doctor if effects persist after quitting the drug.
Cold-like Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic notes that patients may have symptoms of a cold such as body aches, stuffy nose and sneezing, and sore throat. A physician should be consulted about this side effect if it worsens or persists.
Gastroenterological Side Effects
There are many possible gastroenterological effects including diarrhea, heartburn, gas, and nausea and vomiting. Patients may experience a loss of appetite as well as drastic fluctuations in weight.
Genitourinary Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic notes that some female patients taking citalopram may experience changes in their menstrual cycles. Also, according to the Physicians' Desk Reference, citalopram may affect ejaculation in men. Both male and female individuals may suffer from a decreased desire for sex.
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