Side effects of citalopram hbr

Facts aboutcitalopram

Citalopram is a medicine used for treating depression and it is classified as one of the drugs from the SSRIs. This medicine increases the level of serotonin in our brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that causes us to feel better and happier, so this medicine can relieve the symptoms of depression. Citalopram mustn’t be used with MAO inhibitors. You can use it only two weeks after you have stopped using MAO inhibitors.

At the beginning of the treatment with this medicine, you might have thoughts about committing suicide, particularly if you are younger than 24. That is why you should visit your psychiatrist frequently during the beginning of therapy. There are symptoms which may occur and require medicine help, which is why you should call the doctor if you notice any changes in your behavior, if you feel anxious, if you are violent and if thinking about harming yourself.

If women use antidepressants while pregnant, the baby can suffer the consequences. You have to consult your doctor if you want to have a baby, and he will advise you whether to stop using the medicine or not.

Sideeffects of citalopram

As for the side effects related to nervous system, this medicine can cause problems regarding sleep. Difficulties with sleep are common at the beginning of the therapy. Some other unwanted effects associated with this drug such as shaking, headache, lightheadedness, strange sensations on the skin, involuntary movements and other effects which are less common.

Common side effects regarding stomach and intestines are sickness, looseness of the bowels, upset stomach, flatulency, while less common side effects are piles, difficulties with swallowing and inflammation of the mouth membrane, esophagus and intestines. There is also higher risk of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract in those individuals who use citalopram.

Sleepiness,inability to sleep, anxiousness, anorexia, emotional disturbance, painful menstruation, lower sexual desire and yawning are most common psychiatric unwanted effects associated with citalopram. Less common side effects are substance abuse, violent behavior, paranoia, panic attacks, delusional thoughts and psychotic illnesses.

Citalopramcan affect other organs and their functioning. We will only name those side effects which are most common. Problems with erection, ejaculation, amenia, and pain in the breasts are side effects regarding genital tract. Respiratory system can also be affected, and unwanted effects are respiratory infections, inflammation of the nasal membrane and problems with sinuses. Low level of sodium in the blood, rash and itching sensations, changes in weight and rapid heartbeat are also common side effects of citalopram.