Facts on Celexa

1. Celexa Increases Your Serotonin

Celexa, also known by the generic name citalopram, is one of the most popular selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These drugs are used to treat symptoms of depression, as well as anxiety and panic disorders, by increasing the amount of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in your nervous system. This calms you down and serves as a buffer against the severe mood swings associated with these disorders.

2. Symptoms Might Get Worse Before They Get Better

Parents of adolescents and children starting treatment with Celexa should know that it might initially cause symptoms to get worse. One rare side effect of Celexa is increased suicide risk. Because of this, it's extremely important for the patient's mood to be monitored during the early weeks of treatment. If you're the one taking the medication, pay attention to how you feel and contact your physician if you think you're feeling worse.

3. Pick the Perfect Dose

Like other SSRIs, Celexa can be prescribed in a variety of dosages. The typical base dosage is 20 mg per day, but your psychiatrist might decide to increase this to 30 mg or even 40 mg a day if your symptoms don't improve. The drug also comes in different pill sizes, so you won't necessarily need to use a weekly medicine counter to ration out your doses.

4. Steer Clear of These Side Effects

As with any other antidepressant medication, you might experience certain side effects when taking Celexa. The list of these side effects is pretty long, but the most common ones to watch out for are nausea, dizziness, sexual dysfunction and unusual mood swings. On the upside, some men may experience longer-lasting erections caused by the increased serotonin levels in their bodies. Although it's very rare, you might also experience serotonin syndrome, a serious condition involving an unmanageable spike in the neurotransmitter's numbers. Never hesitate to call your doctor if you're having any side effects at all.

5. Celexa and MAOIs Don't Mix

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are another popular class of drugs used to treat depression. They're less specific than SSRIs, however, and carry the risk of serious side effects from food and drug interactions. Taking an SSRI like Celexa while also taking an MAOI can cause severe illness and even death. If you've been taking MAOIs, you'll need to wait 14 days after stopping them before you can safely start using Celexa.