Celexa, Citalopram Brand Name is a widely prescribed antidepressant belonging to a class of drugs called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs are famed for their effectiveness against depression and different anxiety disorders by raising the levels of serotonin inside the brain thereby improving mood and emotional stability.
Uses of Celexa
In adults, Celexa treats major depressive disorder (MDD) primarily. Several clinical trials have well-documented its efficacy in treating depression. Besides MDD, this drug has been used off-label for panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders as well as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Benefits of Celexa
Patients’ quality of life significantly improved; they experienced less anxiousness and low moods. The advantage that Celexa has over other antidepressants is that it selectively inhibits reuptake of serotonin and thus results in fewer side effects compared to other medications.Celexa often records significant improvements in patients’ lives with regards to mood improvement, energy enhancement and better sleep patterns, including an actualization of substantial improvement with respect to quality-life reductions in both anxiety and depression. The selectivity by which it ceases serotonin uptake is the edge that makes it much better than any other antidepressant.
Potential Side Effects
Some patients may experience side effects as a result of using Celexa but it is effective and generally well-tolerated. Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, fatigue, sleep disturbances or increased sweating. In very rare cases, severe side effects such as serotonin syndrome, QT prolongation (a heart rhythm disorder) and increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in young adults aged 24 years and younger can occur.Although this drug is generally tolerated well by many people with its efficacy unquestionable there are some individuals for whom it does not agree. Nausea, dry mouth, fatigue, insomnia or excessive perspiration are commonly experienced among patients taking celexa. On the other hand, serious complications which are less common include serotonin syndrome as well as QT prolongation (disorder of heart rhythm) and greater probability to commit suicide among those who have not attained the age of twenty four years.
Important Safety Information
Patients who have had any history of seizures bipolar disorder liver or kidney disease cardiac issues should discuss their medical history with their healthcare providers before starting on Celexa; likewise they should not take this medication together with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or other drugs that influence serotonin levels lest they experience serotonin syndrome that could be fatal. If you are pregnant or nursing a baby then you should consult your doctor before taking Celexa because it can enter into your breast milk harming the baby while still in your womb.Before starting Celexa talk about your past medical conditions particularly if you suffer from heart problems, liver or kidney disease, seizures or bipolar disorder. It is also of great importance that Celexa should not be consumed with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) nor other serotonergic substances to prevent the occurrence of serotonin syndrome which could be life-threatening in conservative terms.
Celexa may pass into breast milk and harm a nursing baby or fetus. Therefore, Celexa’s administration should be only upon consulting with a doctor by pregnant and lactating women.
Conclusion
This powerful anti-depressant drug has been used to treat depression as well as other mental health conditions but it comes along with certain risks and side effects just like any other medication. You should work closely with your healthcare provider to determine if this medication is appropriate for you and watch out for any adverse effects throughout treatment. Follow the prescriptions regarding dose and duration of use given by your physician to achieve best results.All medications come with potential risks and side effects, including Celexa, which can significantly improve symptoms of depression and other mental illnesses. However, all drugs have side effects as well; therefore it is important that you consult closely with your health care provider prior to commencing on celexa therapy so that he can determine whether it will be necessary also check for negative signs during its administration. Make sure you adhere to the instructions regarding dosage length given by your healthcare provider so that you could have better results.
