Answer/Reply:

Haven't heard of this w/ Celexa, but with any med, especially a psychoactive one, a few people will have odd reactions to it. So no, I don't think you're crazy! Is he willing to talk to his doc about this, or do you need to notify the doc? Do it yourself if you have to; this is obviously seriously affecting your life. Hope things get straightened out soon for you both!

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-10-20 09:30:16

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Approximately 5% of iGuard patients taking celexa reported mood and behavior changes as a side effect. In your husband's case the mood and behavior changes you described seem very extreme and need additional followup from a doctor to definitively determine the root cause. If possible, try to go to an appointment with him so you can express the concerns you have.

Posted: 2009-10-29 21:04:58

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

It is not likely that that these are withdrawal symptoms of citalopram, especially since you tapered off your dose. Perhaps there is something else going on. If the symptoms last more than a few days, call your doctor.

Posted: 2009-09-27 11:11:48

Answer/Reply:

Can't speak to gender differences with regard to frequency/severity of this side-effect. But am 60 yr old male, have been on citalopram for about two and a half months and, like you, started experiencing problems reaching orgasm during the first month. Doctor said this side-effect may diminish, as my system adjusted to this drug. It has in fact diminished to a certain degree and hopefully will continue to do so.

61 year old Male

Posted: 2009-09-23 16:17:02

Answer/Reply:

my dr has me on celexa and stalevo for twitching toes and restless legs, helping a little but my feet hurt at night from twitching all day. what s the name of your natural med that works.
virginia

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-09-26 08:05:27

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

There are dozens of alternative drugs to treat anxiety. They range from other antidepressants with anti-anxiety properties or sedatives like benzodiazapines. You should discuss your concerns with your doctor and ask them to explore an alternative that would be best for you based on your overall health conditions. Do not get discouraged by the first agent not working for you. Treating anxiety effectively can be a challenge until you find the drug that works best in your body.

Posted: 2009-08-20 22:29:04

Answer/Reply:

celexa has had similar effects on younger people (ei under 25yrs old) I hope you find something that works for you. These type of meds will work wonders for some and make things worse for others. ask ask ask, therapists, pharmacists, and anyone who regularly prescripes and monitors patients taking anti=depressants/anti-anxiety meds. email the company.

39 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-26 16:40:33

Answer/Reply:

Every "body" is made up differently, so there will always be trial and error for every different person. I was on Zoloft for years that worked for my depression and IBS symptoms, but I subsequently gained 75 lbs in 5 years. Because of that my doctors and I decided to try a different serotonin inhibitor, Celexa, in combination with a low dosage of Topomax. I am a 38 year old female and have had no side effects what-so-ever on Celexa. Actually, when I took it before bed I had trouble falling asleep, so now I take it when I wake up in the morning and I am fine (Topomax makes me tired, so I take that one before bed).

You must be comfortable with your doctors and be able to talk to them with your concerns; between my GI doctor, Internist and Psychiatrist working together, I am an healthier, happier person today. You must not give up; for awhile there I had given up on western medicine, but my quality of life is so much better now with the medications. Think of it this way: if you were a diabetic, would you deny yourself insulin? Good Luck and Don't Give Up!

38 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-27 10:18:43

Answer/Reply:

Age 66
Celexa does cause itching
drys skin out
very uncomfortable and frustrating
my normal dose
is 20 mg before bed time
Dr wants to increase it to 40 mg . Double trouble there.
I see
no need to go see a Dermatologist with this.
it is The Rx Med itself causing the itch problem.

The common sense things you can do for this problem, do not help very much.

67 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-10 02:38:21

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Skin rashes are reported in about 1% of patients (about 1 out of 100 patients) taking Celexa.

Posted: 2009-08-10 22:29:52

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Celexa about 5 months now and I too am developing rashes and was wondering if it the drug, or one of my other drugs - Tegretol and Trazadone.

Basically, to put it bluntly, I have rashes everywhere I have hair. My underarms, my head, and yes, "there".... luckily I'm a pretty smooth skinned mail after that ; ). Yes, my rash itches like crazy and my skin and hair flake like crazy. I've been taking hydrating sithz baths and that seems to be helping some. I'm sorry you are having problems, too, but I feel somewhat comforted that it is not me. Going to talk to my psychiatrist about it Mon.

Another symptom - I also have very, very dry ears. Constantly dry inside and out and having to almost soak them in lotion.

39 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-15 17:46:53

Answer/Reply:

I am a 37 year old female. I have been taking citalopram (the generic for celexa) because it is less expensive than the brand name celexa. I have not experienced hives or any other side effects from taking citalopram.

38 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-16 21:58:24

Answer/Reply:

Hi
My name is Sammi. I have been on celexa for 5yrs. One side effect is hives, rashes. They can change you meds. Paxil is the samething. I don't know what dose you are taking, but with allergys they dont care. Ask for something compared to celexa and have them note this as alergic to. Hope you get better soon.

43 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-18 14:42:52

Answer/Reply:

After taking Lexapro for 2 years I was instead prescribed Celexa. I started itching within a few days of taking Celexa. I was wondering if it was just me. I am very unhappy with Celexa and hope to be changed to something else when I return to my doctor. It doesnt seem to help me at all.

28 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-18 23:17:46

Answer/Reply:

I AM TAKING CELEXA 20MG AND I AM ALSO TAKING 1000MG OF NIACIN. AND HAVE TAKEN A HAIR BRUCH TO MY BODY BECAUSE OF THE ITCHING. I THOUGHT IT WAS THE NIACIN. I STILL HAVE CRYING JAGS WITH THE CELEXAM AND MY DODCTOR CHANGED ME BACK TO LEXAPRO BUT IT IS $46.00 W/ MY INSURANCE, BUT THE CELEXA IS ONLY $4.00, SO I'M STAYING WITH THE CELEXA FOR A WHILE TO SEE IF IT WORKS OK ONCE IT GETS INTO MY SYSTEM. I'VE ONLY BEEN TAKING CELEXA FOR ABOUT A MONTH

59 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-23 10:00:57

Answer/Reply:

age 66
go back and read the side effects
celexa
can cause anxiety and depression

make you have what I term
the fidgets

67 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-10 02:41:57

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

What you are experiencing is called akathisia, which is a documented side effect of Celexa. It's a feeling of restlessness associated with increased motor activity. Perhaps you can speak with your doctor about adjusting your dose if this side effect is very troubling to you.

Posted: 2009-08-13 00:43:39

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Controlling depression and improving your overall mental health can be a challenge for some patients. It is very important that you stay in close contact with your doctor so they know how you are feeling and how you feel about your medication effectiveness. Celexa is typically indicated for depression and Lamictal is indicated for treating some types of bipolar disorders. Lamictal also has several other indications. In both the case of the Celexa and Lamictal, your doctor needs to make several assessments in order to diagnose and treat the depression and or other presenting conditions.

The maximum daily dose of Celexa in the clinical trials done by the manufacturer is 80mg/day. If you are concerned about the strength or are experiencing more side effects or you feel your mood/ depression is not improving, you should get in contact with your doctor immediately.

Your concerns are legitimate and being actively involved and engaged with your doctor and your treatment is a very positive action especially as a future health professional. You should discuss you concerns with your doctor regarding benefit versus risk of your medication profile.

Posted: 2009-08-03 22:36:13

Answer/Reply:

go by what your body tells you any Rx Meds or OTC Meds.
Best to start researching this

as you know how you feel/ ask lots of questions, no matter how long it takes to get the right answsers.
there are a lot of options out there to help with this, just have to find the right ones, trial and error mostly.

and if your Dr. really listens talk with him/her.
or ask him to refer u to someone who can help.

Sometimes I feel I need a chemist to help me with
my Rx meds and the interactions.,


I do not know the answer to your question but is good your are working on this to find the answers.,

Hope it will not take you long to find the the info you need.

67 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-10 02:53:51

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking celexa for about almost 3 years,at 60 mg,my doctor said she can't go any higher,than that.And the last 3 months I've been taking 25mg of lamictal,but not seeing much a difference.I have bipolar and anxiety and ocd,and major depression,but recently mostly really down.And also other problems.Out of all the depression meds out there,celexa,is the only thing that's helped me,somewhat.And only after shock therapy.Group therapy really helps also.I also am very concerned about the affects of these meds.I know a person right now,that's having kidney problem due to meds for schizophrenia.It's scary,and not to forget the weight gain.I've gained about 120 pounds due to meds,and I just recently have 2 take meds for high blood pressure.But you have to out weigh,the gains and losses,in these meds.For me the weight gain causes me to become more depressed.But without the meds,I wouldn't be able to take care of my kids,and probly would be hospitalized or even worse.

38 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-21 18:23:41

Answer/Reply:

I am on both as well. I was on Seroquel too, but then I was told by my doctor that it is used to treat bipolar disorder and mood stability. I was then put on Celexa and Lamictal for depression and mood stability reasons. According to my doctor, because I have some signs of mood instability and anxiety (but not full-fledged manic depressive episodes), Lamictal balances out those effects while Celexa treats the depression. It sounds like we are on the same path right now - I understand that you have some questions and concerns, and I'd just like to let you know that I have been prescribed both for more than a year now, and I haven't witnessed any significant side-effects - the meds have been working out very well.

19 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-22 13:17:44

Answer/Reply:

my boyfriend was diagnosed with cyclothemia, with anxiety and depression being his main issues. His med dr. prescribed celexa first (20 mg, then up to 40mg a month later) 1x a day. Two months later, dr. added lamotrigine for the mood swings/depression for his illness. He was on a gradually increasing dose (started at 25 mg, and graduated up to 100 mg over 4 months) and started to have a rash on his torso. The dr. removed the lamotrigine at this last visit, and I think that his mood swings, seems to me, are back to being bad since he has been off of it. He also takes a periodic 5mg oxy for 'pain' - actually I think he takes it for the buzz and europhia he gets from it. He is motivated and gets a lot done when he takes them. Of course, thats dangerous, and he tries to stay away from them, but he likes the self-medication. (Of course, no scrip - he gets them from a 'friend'). He's also a recovering alcoholic. When he was on chantix several months ago, he was able to get 70+ days under his belt without smoking, but I noticed about 6 weeks into the treatment, he got very irritable and mean. Too all who have written here - good luck and keep trying! Hang in there!!!

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-24 02:38:36

Answer/Reply:

lamictal is a newer mood stabilizer. i was put on it but i got a rash. if you get a rash on it you have to stop it immediatly because it is a severe side affect. so watch for a rash.

25 year old Female

Posted: 2009-09-04 10:46:57

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking Celexa for a few years now. At first I was on 20mg and now I take 40. I feel the same way you do. I was so depressed at on point, this medication made all my problems go away. Before I would let let everything get to me and now I mostly let everything roll off. I recommend this medication to my friends all the time.

28 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-22 10:47:01

Answer/Reply:

I've been on Celexa for several years. I have had no side effects and it has really helped my depression.

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-26 17:31:54

Answer/Reply:

"personality disorder". Do you mean borderline personality disorder? Here in Iowa in particular at the U. of Iowa, a program was developed called STEPPS which basically works in a group format for weekly sessions. In this program, BPD was thrown out as a name and the new name they are working on changing in the DSM IV? (not sure which issue) is EID which stands for Emotional Intensity Disorder which more accurately describes what the person is going through. One major hint is going from a level of 0 to 10 in anger outbursts. These "disorders" through the program you work to keep your "levels" manageable. Can't do this in 500 characters. My STEPPS book is 3 inches thick. But it really works because a lot that you are dealing with in your life has to do with past issues (such as some form of abuse). Besides any medication, the behavior modification is retraining your brain to think differently. I would love to talk more about this because this program is a lifesaver. It is a lot of work, but worth it. In a nutshell if you are in a situation and you feel yourself getting "emotional" there are 5 STEPPS . 1. Distance, 2. Distraction, 3. Communication 4. Challenge 5. Manage the Problem. When you are in the "tornado" you can't think straight or communicate. I also take Citalopram at 30mg which is as high as I can go. At 40mg I was feeling really bad. However, due to other health issues I'm on 27 meds. a day. Each has their own "demons" to deal with in terms of side effects. Itching is a big sign of allergic reaction and should be discontinued. My Dr. thinks I'm allergic to air!! e-mail me at sherryscards@netins.net. 57 yr female. I have a question about Neurontin anybody out there have problems with it? Thanks.

57 year old Female

Posted: 2009-09-01 14:58:12

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Celexa does not cause multiple sclerosis (MS). Multiple sclerosis is a degenerative disease caused by the body's own immune system attacking the insulating sheath around the nerves. Celexa is occasionally used to treat the depression that may occur in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Posted: 2009-07-20 23:36:21

Answer/Reply:

They do not really know what causes MS but depression is one symptom of MS and Celexa is for depression. I am on it and an antianxiety med plus about a half dozen others, to try to keep me going. Right now I am trying Ritalin for my memory. Haven't taken it long enough to see if it is going to work.

58 year old female

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-16 14:28:02

Answer/Reply:

in regards to the celexa, I have been taking the generic citalopram for about 4 yrs. now. I started with a sample 10 mg celexa. The Dr. prescribed the generic in 20 mg tablet. I chose to cut them in half. the original sample was for 10 mg and the citalopram is for 20. There are days when I feel I need the entire dose and other days that the 1/2 pill works fine.
As for twitching, I thought that was related to the MS. If you are concerned that you may have MS. I would suggest having your Dr. do an MRI. I had a problem back in 2004 when I was not able to focus on completing a job that I had been doing for about 20 years. Just all of a sudden I was not sure what I was doing and unable to focus on the task. Quite scary. The MRI determined that I do have MS. and that there are several leasions that have caused short term memory loss, balance problems and some times when I step down I feel like my feet are not there they feel numb. MS is a disease that robs you of many things that you used to do. God bless and good luck. 57 year old female.

57 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-09 22:34:08

Answer/Reply:

I've been taking citalopram(celexa) 20 mg. for over 2 years. It has helped me considerably with anxiety and depression. I didn't have any noticable side effects for most of that time, although, for the past week I've had some twitching in a muscle above the knee. I also deal with constipation from time to time but that's something that I have a history with. I try to make adjustments in my diet...ie, lots of water, fruit, Metamucil, etc. Before Celexa, I tried Effexor and Lexapro but the side effects were too severe. I had blurry vision, no sex drive and yawned constantly. I felt numb.
I don't take any other medications. I also try to get outside for a walk every day, regardless of the season.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-10 07:37:37

Answer/Reply:

I had also tried Lexapro and my side effects were no sex drive, dizziness, numb hands and fingers, chest pain, nausea, etc.

25 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-18 19:13:13

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

There have been some reports of muscle twitching or spasms with Celexa use. However, these side effects do not occur very often. If the muscle twitching/spasms continue to bother you or your symptoms worsen, please follow up with your doctor.

Posted: 2009-06-11 22:16:15

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking Celexa for a little over a year and in the past 2 or 3 months I started noticing my legs were bothering me alot especially at bedtime. I thought maybe I had restless leg syndrome, but I am also on clonapin which is a medication used for the treatment of rls. I decided to do a little experiment myself and see if it is one of my meds., so I stopped taking the clonapin first for a few days and still had the problem, so then I stopped taking the celexa and guess what, the leg twitching stopped. I had to start taking it again because I don't have an appt. with my dr. until next month, but I am definately going to talk to him about it and ask him to change my anti-depressant. God bless and I hope this helps. Female 41

41 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-31 00:58:56

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Twitching can be a side effect of Celexa. You are doing the right thing by talking to your doctor before changing your medication. It is important not to stop taking Celexa, or any other medication, without talking to your doctor and developing a weaning schedule.

Posted: 2009-08-05 23:13:15

Answer/Reply:

hi i'm sorry to here you are having such a time with this med, maybe the dose is too high? I was on a depressant called wellbutrin,it made my brain fill scrambled,so my dr. put me on citilopram(celexea) 40mg, i have been on for 8years, I have noticed a few side effects,like not being able to sleep well and being irritated but the end result i'm better with it! there are many more out there. God bless you and your meds.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-18 18:52:38

Answer/Reply:

It has been my experience with teh Citoprolam to have my vision affected. Missing a dose really causes vision problems. I was also given Buspropione along with this drug and the vision impairment worsened. Be very careful of drug interactions and take your medication as regularly as possible at the same time every day is best. I have been on the Citoprolam for a year now at the 20MG dosage and it has been very effective, hang in there.

46 Year Old Female

45 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-02 15:12:57

Answer/Reply:

Hello,

I have now been on Celexa for 1 year, after 4 months I went up from 20 to 40 mg and it has helped me tremendously. Your body just becomes immune to it. Good luck, hope this helps.

32 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-03 14:54:44

Answer/Reply:

I have had bad anxiety for a couple years, but due to my dr., I never received the help I needed, as he didn't beleive me. I changed doctors a few months ago, and finally got put on Citalopram for anxiety and they say depression, although I don't feel depressed. Anyway, I had such bad anxiety that she could tell just by me sitting there. She started me on Citalopram ..at 10mg. for 1 week and then right to 20mg. I have been taking that for about 3 months..and about a couple weeks ago...the mood swings and everything started coming back...not as bad, but I didn't feel as good as I had. I went to the dr. this week, and she uped me to 40mg...but I have to take 30mg. for a week and then the 40mg, so my body can get use to it. It's normal she said to 'level' off until they get the right dosage. But,I felt great for those 3 months at 20mg... Hopefully the uped dose will do the same. I also have trouble sleeping, so she had me on 25mg. of Vistaril...which worked most the time..but she also uped that to 50mg. Which she said I could take 2 if needed to help with sleep.

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-06 00:53:19

Answer/Reply:

I started taking citalapram 8 years ago when my husband left. I started at 60mg right off the bat. At one time I took myself off them because I felt fine and that I didn't need them anymore. I had to spend some time in the Hospital (for something different) and had to go back on them. Now when I try to take myself off it is terrible. The last time I did it, it was for a week, by the end of the week I was seriously ready to kill someone. I was very mad at the world. So you shold never take yourself off without Dr. supervision.

Female
Age 53

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-10 13:50:49

Answer/Reply:

Yes, i was taken Celexa for a while. In the beginning it work for my anxiety and depression. It work for maybe 3 weeks to 1 month. Then i went back to feeling the way i used too. After that it was like eating candy or a placebo it serve no purpose what so ever. So, i stopped taking the medication. I am 47 years old and i am a female.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-10 10:57:00

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Your new dose may take 1 to 4 weeks to take full effect. If you feel that your symptoms are worsening or not getting better despite taking it for that time period, you should follow up with your doctor to determine the best and safest course to take. Keep in mind that Citalopram should not be stopped abruptly - any changes in your medications should always be done under the care and guidance of your doctor.

Posted: 2009-06-25 13:54:21

Answer/Reply:

I was on celexa for several years (10 mg) and felt fine. Had a few side effects, dry mouth, some constipation. I do think that the 10 mg is not enough, I started feeling very anxious and 'sad' again and my doctor has increased my dosage to 40 mg. It's only been a few days now so I dont know what to expect. I'm hoping that with the increase my mood level will stabilize and my anxiety will decrease.
I have been on other depression drugs in the past and this one seems to effect my body the least so I will stick with it.
female, 55

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-07 19:31:51

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Citalopram for almost three years. I take 40mg/daily. I have had no changes in behavior. My anxiety got worse for the first 2 weeks of starting it. Now I am great, if I forget to take it more than 2 days in a row, I start feeling a little down, but that reminds me to take it. I am extremely happy with the results.

32 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-16 19:50:41

Answer/Reply:

I have been on citalopram 10 mg for a bit over 7 months. First I felt it didn't work. Then I was uped to 20mg. Now I am fine. I feel normal. The first month I was on 20mg, I felt like it wasn't working. Now, that my body is used to it, I feel very good. Like my old self again. Give it time, if it doesn't work or make you feel better, then it may not be right for him.

26 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-25 14:21:32

Answer/Reply:

Your husband might need another drug in addition to the citalopram or the doctor might want to change him to another drug. Everyone's body chemistry is different. I have been on citalopram for years without any known side effects.

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-25 18:41:08

Answer/Reply:

Hi, I took celexa at 20 mg for 5 years (for anxiety) without any problems whatsoever. In fact, my friends noticed no personality change and I felt totally myself. I don't know if it causes different reactions in different people but, as I said, I was fine with it.
Good luck and hang in there. You'll eventually figure out a solution.

55 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-30 11:43:43

Answer/Reply:

I also have been on celexa for 7 years and stoped taking it for 6 months and needed to start taking them again and for a year I was on 20 mg and had the same violent outbursts but when my dose was increased to 40 mg I am feeling much better and no longer get those violent outbursts.

32 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-31 00:33:02

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking citalopram 40 mg for years. I have not experienced any side affects. Your husband's body chemistry may have changed. He should discuss this with he doctor.

67 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-31 14:55:17

Answer/Reply:

The same thing happened to me, but it was after taking it for several years. I switched to Cymbalta which works great for the depression from chronic illness and pain and leveled off the outbursts, but I started to gain weight and completely lost the ability to climax sexually. Never lost the desire, just the ability. Celexa never did that. After talking with my doctor I went back to celexa (still find climaxing hard, but can now). Haven't been able to lose the weight I gained (an extra 10 lbs or so, but haven't had the outbursts of anger either since switching back to celexa. I was on Cymbalta for about 4 months and have been back on the celexa for almost 3 years again. I can't explain why the sudden bursts of anger (totally out of character for me) after several years on celexa, nor can I explain how changing to Cymbalta for 4 months and back to celexa calmed me down and I've not had the bursts of anger since then.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-01 20:20:09

Answer/Reply:

After 10 years on Prozac I started feeling depressed again w/a general sense of heightened anger w/outbursts. I talked w/my doctor and I switched to generic Celexa, 30 mg. Unfortunately, I began to feel the same way I had on Prozac. I lessened my dose of generic Celexa to 15 mg and so far I feel more myself and less angry. Should the symptoms reappear I will try another brand of antidepressant.

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-02 16:43:10

Answer/Reply:

I've been on citalopram for a long time for depression, I went from 20mg to 40mg as my depression had gotten pretty bad, since my dosage went up, I've had no ill effects or reprecussions from it. I'm not sure what I'd do with out it. I hope all goes well.

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-05 22:53:55

Answer/Reply:

I have been on citalopram for about 3 years now. At first, I too had the nauseousness and loss of appetite. My doctor suggested if the symptoms were not completely untolerable, to give it a full month. The symptoms did go away within that first month.

39 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-16 17:09:26

Answer/Reply:

I have been on this medication for asbout 8 years, and finally able to come off of it. I never had any problem, maybe the dosage is just too high for you right now. I started out on 10mg and slowly went up to 40mg. My new Doctor told me that I'm on too high of one right now. However like I said I'm getting off it now. It has really helped me a lot. Keep on using it and see what your Dr. tells you.
Be Blessed,

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-27 15:47:18

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Celexa for 9 years with no problem. I only take 20mg a day though. I would talk to your Dr or pharmacist!

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-27 19:02:15

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking Citalopram for eight years. It has been relatively sucessful for my depression symptoms, especially helping me with anger issues. So far I have not noticed any side effects, but after reading your experience of upper abdominal "fluttering" I have to say that I have felt such feelings for the last year, only in the early morning. I take Citalopram in the AM after I've felt the fluttering and never associated one with the other, but now I'm wondering if they're connected. I have no other explanation for the feelings.

61 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-28 15:01:14

Answer/Reply:

unfortunately all medication comes with side effect, i have been on citalopram since june of 2005.try and make sure you eat at least a piece of toast or crackers before you take your medication this helped me get over those side effects. good luck, i haven't had troubles since the begining


51 year old female
2009/30/2009

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-30 17:25:31

Answer/Reply:

I take 30 mg Citalopram a day and have been on this for 2 years now. It seems to work reasonable well for me with the only problem being the dreams. Sometimes a bad dream will make you a bit cranky in the morning but you soon adjust to this side effect.

70 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-31 14:56:16

Answer/Reply:

Citalopram 10mg for several years like maybe 3-4 experiencing the same systems as described by 45 yr old female exactly however at times in the AM I have feelings like morning sickness and Husband walks on egg shells now maybe twice a month. Uh think it is time to talk to doctor ya think

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-03 00:11:45

Answer/Reply:

I am a 63 year old female on Citalopram for Anxiety Attacks.
I have not had an attack now for about 2 Yrs.
WORKS FOR ME!!!!!!!

63 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-20 15:11:47

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

While anxiety, depression, insomnia and nausea has been reported with Citalopram use, it is a good idea for you to speak to your doctor about your recent mood changes if these symptoms are still troubling you. The response from each antidepressant medication differs from patient to patient, but typically, it may take up to 8 or more weeks to see the full effect of an antidepressant.

Posted: 2009-04-08 00:12:54

Answer/Reply:

After being on the 20mg for a year I felt the need to increase my dosage. I am on 30mg now. In the beginning, for the first week, I did notice a change in my sleep habits. I was more restless and didn't sleep as well. By the end of the 2nd week I was feeling better.

I don't know when you take your meds, but I always take mine right when I go to bed. This way I sleep through any effects I may have (such as the nausea).

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-22 22:23:30

Answer/Reply:

actualy i am on 80mg for a few years and recently in the last 8 months i changed my eating habits and have lost 40lb getting me closert o my healty weight again

32 year old Male

Posted: 2009-04-11 03:57:37

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking it for a couple years and never lost weight while using it.

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 14:20:13

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Celexa and Wellbutrin, and I have actually gained weight.

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 20:57:37

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Celexa for the past 6 years now. I take 40mg. and getting ready to get off of it. I feel I do not need it anymore, and going to give it a try. I did take Welbrutin and GAINED weight. I take Temazepam 30 l or 2 per night. No problems. Al though there are nights I still don't sleep. I really believe it is because of the Celexa it makes me tired. I'm on a weight lose pill that should be giving me engery, and I don't. My family Dr. thinks it could be from my meds. I have been on something or other for the past 15 years. I'm ready to try to see if I can get off of it, because I feel that my body is just used to it. Which I hear can happen. My Phy. just keeps wanting to up it... I told him no last time I was in there. He is moving and I'm starting with a new one in June, and going to ask for a drug holiday and see if I can do it.
Good luck
57 yr Female

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-27 19:58:09

Answer/Reply:

I was first given an Zoloft several years ago to prevent miagrain headaches. After sometime I was changed to Celexa. I have tried to stop taking this med. in the past but after aprox. 10-14 I begin to feel awful. I now take Topamax for my headaches & don't feel that I need the Celexa. Has anyone ever stopped taking this type of medication? How long does it take to get out of your body and to start feeling better?

40 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-20 11:55:48

Answer/Reply:

Im on Celexa and Bupropion also. I wonder if this is a common combination, although it warns about certain possible side effects?

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-16 22:17:09

Answer/Reply:

Been using it for about 8 years now, and have fluctuated up & down in poundage, but it's not due to the medicine.

59 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-21 08:43:17

Answer/Reply:

Not really...when I first took it several years ago I had a slight weight decrease. I do not correspond that with the medication, but rather I felt better and was more active. Less depression eating and such. Since starting this medication I have gone up and done and I hold myself accountable for that. I hope this helps.

50 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-21 17:01:09

Answer/Reply:

NO, I've gained 30 pounds, I'm 56 years old, was on it for 3+ years. I stopped taking my CITALOPRAM about 1 1/2 weeks ago. All of a sudden I have energy that I haven't had for a LONG time, I don't feel like I want to sleep all day. I even went for a walk the other day.. something I haven't done for 3 years.. because I was too tired. I'm hoping I can mentally handle being off the CITALOPRAM, because I sure feel better!
I started doing some research about the side effects of CITALOPRAM, found that a lot of problems I was experiencing could be a side effect of the medicine.. I just ran out of refills, I didn't bother calling my Dr. to get more refills. I'm sure I shouldn't have gone off it cold turkey, but so far I'm Ok.

50 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-22 01:53:25

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking it for a couple years (30mg). As far as taking it with no change to diet or exercise, there was no consistent weight loss. I did lose a few pounds, but I attribute that to feeling like being up and about doing things, rather than lying around all the time. I took the brand name for citalopram (>Lexapro< and Celexa are by the same mfg) and I did actually lose weight while on it.

Every person is different and if you have read the package insert, you will find it says you may or may not experience weight loss/gain.

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-22 22:19:52

Answer/Reply:

Now that you mention it, my husband is on this. When he was on the brand name it didn't effect him. But, since he has been on the generic he has lost probably about 30 pounds. We never put two and two together.

36 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-24 16:10:26

Answer/Reply:

I have been on citalopram for several years and haven't lost any weight however I am at a standstill no gain/no loss
65year female

67 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-24 16:46:43

Answer/Reply:

I am 60 years old, female, and I have been on Celexa for the past two years and I have lost weight while on it. I have trouble w/metabolic syndrome and a slooooow metabolism as well, but if you watch and exercise, you can still lose weight on it. I'm on l0 mg Celexa, so don't know about the higher doses. Good luck!

61 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-25 15:59:34

Answer/Reply:

I have not lost weight while on Citalopram, but I only take 20 mg once a day.


52 yr old female

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-27 13:29:38

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Both weight gain and weight loss has been reported with citalopram (Celexa). About 5% of iGuard members taking citalopram report weight gain and less than 1% report weight loss. If changes in your weight become a concern, please follow up with your physician to talk about your concerns.

Posted: 2009-04-27 14:58:00

Answer/Reply:

I have taken Celexa and I actually gained weight.I have started taken Sertaline and have lost quite a bit.

40 year old Male

Posted: 2009-04-27 15:46:20

Answer/Reply:

No actually I"m heavy and gained some in the beginning and have maintained the weight as long as I"ve been on citalopram but it works well for me.

27 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-28 17:00:52

Answer/Reply:

I had been taking Citalprolam for about 10 years and then changed to Topomax (topiramate). I lost weight on that. But then my insurance changed and I went back on Citalprolam and gained back the 50 pounds I had lost while on Topomax. So, my experience is Topomax helped me, my husband, my best friend and her daughter, and several other people I know lose weight and gain weight or have a very hard time not gaining on Citaprolam. I'm 40 yrs old tomorrow and my husband is 58, so we're right around your age. I would suggest talking to your dr. about Topomax. It is a great anti-depressent with the added benefit of weight loss for a lot of people. Hope this helps. Hildy in Texas

40 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-01 18:11:32

Answer/Reply:

I have been on citalopram for a year and yes I have lost about 35-40 pounds since my dr. changed me from another medication to this one.

41 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-04 00:44:42

Answer/Reply:

I also have anxiety and insomnia. I am having some insomnia issues, although I will say that my sleep is improving. I am in my third week. Citolapram also made my anxiety worse the first week. My second week, I had three good days. This week has been a little touch and go, but overall is better than week two. I do take Ambien at night to help me go to sleep.

34 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-19 19:06:18

Answer/Reply:

I was a little jittery the first couple days on celexa but slept fine. I take it in the morning so the risk of sleep disturbance is lower, per my doc.

31 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-24 14:41:23

Answer/Reply:

hi, i take celexa. i have anxiety and sleeping problems too. the celexa helps me to relax and go to sleep easily and i don't feel so anxious during the day.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-18 20:35:06

Answer/Reply:

I am 43 years old and have been on celexa for a couple of years and I sleep fine with it, but you will crave sweets and you could gain weight if you don't control your intake of fatty sweets. What I do to help me with sweet cravings is limit myself. For instance I'll have one medium size cookie with milk...eat half the doughnut....eat natural peanut butter with homemade preserves....eat fruit, grapefruit is especially good for my sweet cravings. I also take seroquel (sp?) with my celexa, but I only take 1/4 of the tablet and I sleep great and I do not wake up feeling all draggy. I take the two medications because because I was diagnosed with insomia and PTSD due to emotional and physical abuse by ex-husband. I feel great, friends and family have noticed a difference, but you don't depend on the meds to help you, you must change your eating habits as well because alot of what we eat interferes with our sleep patterns and our moods.

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 13:11:48

Answer/Reply:

I am 43 years old and have been on celexa for a couple of years and I sleep fine with it, but you will crave sweets and you could gain weight if you don't control your intake of fatty sweets. What I do to help me with sweet cravings is limit myself. For instance I'll have one medium size cookie with milk...eat half the doughnut....eat natural peanut butter with homemade preserves....eat fruit, grapefruit is especially good for my sweet cravings. I also take seroquel (sp?) with my celexa, but I only take 1/4 of the tablet and I sleep great and I do not wake up feeling all draggy. I take the two medications because because I was diagnosed with insomia and PTSD due to emotional and physical abuse by ex-husband. I feel great, friends and family have noticed a difference, but you don't depend on the meds to help you, you must change your eating habits as well because alot of what we eat interferes with our sleep patterns and our moods.

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 13:16:33

Answer/Reply:

I haven't had a problem, though I do take Trazodone to help me sleep. I have insomnia issues in addition to anxiety problems. If it does cause you problems, take the Celexa in the morning.

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 17:09:35

Answer/Reply:

I have taken both and I don't notice a difference. I have sleeping problems as well and I just went to the doctor today and nothing about the Celexa was even mentioned.

20 Year old female.

20 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 17:26:26

Answer/Reply:

The first week or two I notice I don't sleep as well or as much. However, after my system adjusts to it I sleep fine. (and I take my 30mg dose right before bed)

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-22 22:25:19