Celexa, which is a trade name for the drug citalopram hydrobromide, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that is primarily used to treat depression. Celexa has been studied in patients with a history of obsessive compulsive disorder. The National Institute of Health reports that for all conditions treated Celexa may cause a worsening in condition symptoms or an increased risk of suicidal ideation or behavior.
General Adverse Reactions
Patients taking Celexa may experience flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, fever, muscle and joint pain, and generalized weakness. Rarely hot flashes and rigors (strong chills and shivering) have been experienced.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
The NIH reports that Celexa frequently causes tachycardia (rapid pulse greater than 100 beats per minute) and low blood pressure, particularly postural hypotension, which is a significant drop in blood pressure following position changes. Infrequently people taking Celexa have reported the following adverse reactions: high blood pressure, slow heart rate, irregular or extra heart beats, chest pain, heart attack and stroke.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
Celexa may cause some patients to feel dizzy, anxious, and agitated. Other frequently reported adverse reactions include numbness and tingling of the extremities, migraine headache, insomnia or somnolence and tremor. Less frequently occurring adverse effects are involuntary muscle contractions and movements, leg cramps, and unsteady and abnormal gait.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Patients taking Celexa may complain of flatulence, excessive salivation or dry mouth, nausea, vomiting and indigestion. Celexa may also cause abdominal pain, burping, inflammation and irritation of the stomach, esophagus, tongue and gums. Rarely Celexa may induce inflammation of the gallbladder and gallstones and may aggravate colitis, gastroesophageal reflux, and gastric and duodenal ulcers.
Respiratory System Side Effects
Celexa may cause increased upper respiratory infections, rhinitis and sinusitis. Coughing is a frequently reported adverse effect. Less commonly occurring respiratory symptoms include bronchitis, difficulty breathing and pneumonia.
Dermatologic Side Effects
Common Celexa side effects are rash and itching. Patients may also experience photosensitivity, acne, exacerbation of exzema, dermatitis, psoriasis and loss of hair.
Hematologic Side Effects
Celexa can have effects on the blood producing system of the body and the lymph system. Some of the problems that result are anemia, increased risk of bleeding and swollen lymph glands.
Urogenital Side Effects
A common adverse reaction caused by Celexa is frequent urination. Painful urination and urinary retention have also been reported. Dysmenorrhea, problems with ejaculation and impotence and decreased libido may occur while taking Celexa.
References
- The National Institute of Health Daily Med Sheets
- Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010; Wilson, B. A., Shannon, T. M., & Shields, K. M.; 2010.
Member Comments