Celexa Reviews

Celexa is a well established and popular member of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of medications. in this Celexa review you will learn about when Celexa is used, as well as its common side effects and drug interactions. Celexa (citalopram) has FDA the FDA indication treatment of for major depressive disorder in adults. Celexa does not have FDA approval for use in children although it is used off label by some pediatric psychiatrists. Like all medications in the SSRI class Celexa carries an FDA black box warning of increased risk of suicidality in patients under age 25 years old. Patients under age 25 who are prescribed Celexa need careful monitoring and observation for worsening of depression and suicidal ideation or intent. The usual starting dosage of Celexa is 20 mg orally once a day and the dose may be increased to a maximum of 40 mg daily. Prior to a 2011 FDA warning Celexa in doses up to 80 mg daily were used on occasion but an increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias warranted a reduction in the maximum Celexa dose to 40 mg daily. Celexa is also used off label for the treatment of anxiety disorder, panic disorder, premature ejaculation, obsessive-compulsive disorder and is a part of combination therapy for bipolar disorder.

Celexa generally has a delayed onset of therapeutic benefit that is not noted until after 1 to 4 weeks of treatment. This is likely because the mechanism of action of Celexa is by inhibition of the reuptake of serotonin by the presynaptic membrane at nerve junctions in the brain. It likely takes some period of time for the effective concentration of Celexa to accumulate in the fluid in the neural junction and to therefore become effective.

Celexa has become available as a generic drug which is quite inexpensive through discount pharmacies and is well-known as citalopram. Citalopram is one of several SSRI drugs available on the $4./ month discount pharmacy programs.

Celexa is metabolized extensively in the liver through the CYP 450 metabolic process and is a 2C19 and 3A4 substrate as well as being a weak 2D6inhibitor. It is probably not important to understand the details of this but you should understand that this makes drug interactions with Celexa reasonably common and the use of Celexa with cisapride, thioridazine and the nonselective MAO inhibitors is contraindicated. In addition the list of drugs with potential drug interactions with Celexa is extensive and includes warfarin along with numerous other medications.

The mechanism of cardiac arrhythmias with citalopram at high dosage is through prolongation of the QT interval. The QT interval is the time of repolarization of the cardiac muscles between heartbeats and is a time when the initiation of serious cardiac arrhythmias can occur. This phenomenon is called torsade de pointes and when Celexa is used in combination with other medications that can prolong the QT interval the risk of torsade de pointes and serious cardiac arrhythmias and death Is increased. Examples of medications where combination with Celexa can lead to QT prolongation include thiazide diuretics, the no macrolide antibiotics, Plavix, and cimetidine, as well as many others.

Celexa side effects are fortunately usually tolerable for most patients with the low discontinuation rate because of side effects but nonetheless side effects are common with Celexa use. The most common side effect with Celexa is orgasmic dysfunction in women and ejaculatory delay in men. This can be very annoying and is a side effect common to the whole no SSRI class of medications. Other common Celexa side effects include gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, diarrhea, dyspepsia and dry mouth. Sweating and insomnia are typical neurologic side effects. Nervousness and anxiety are occasionally noted with Celexa use especially early in the course therapy. Serious Celexa side effects can include suicidality especially in those under age 25, the serotonin syndrome especially when used in conjunction with other medications that can have serotonergic affect, mania especially in patients with bipolar disorder, hyponatremia and SIADH, prolonged age that the QT interval and torsade de pointes, and priapism.

The SSRI discontinuation syndrome can be noted with any SSRI medications but is more common in SSRIs with a short-term half-life (the length of time it takes for 50% of the amount of a drug in the blood stream to be excreted or metabolized). Celexa has a relatively long serum half-life of approximately 35 hours and so the SSRI discontinuation syndrome is relatively uncommon and usually fairly mild with Celexa discontinuation. Still discontinuation of Celexa from high dosage should be discouraged and a gradual taper of Celexa dosage over number of days or weeks is usually recommended. When compared to SSRIs like paroxetine (Paxil) which has a much shorter serum half-life discontinuation symptoms are less frequent and less severe most the time with Celexa. The selective norepinephrine-serotonin inhibitor (SNRI) Effexor (venlafaxine) is especially notorious for its frequent and severe discontinuation syndrome. The typical symptoms of SSRI discontinuation syndrome can include vertigo, dizziness, a spacey feeling in the head, and odd electrical impulses sometimes described as zaps or zinger sensations. Additional symptoms of the SSRI discontinuation syndrome can include headache, nightmares, tremor, irritability, dysphoria, confusion and emotional lability. All of these symptoms are felt to be self-limited although rare incidences of long-lasting problems have been claimed.

Escitalopram, the stereo-isomer of citalopram that is biologically active, was brought to market as Lexapro and has gained favor by some as having a quicker onset of action as well as potentially higher efficacy and lower side effect profile when compared to Celexa, although many feel that the two drugs are very similar in their efficacy and side effects. This was a bigger issue prior to the release of generic escitalopram in 2012.

Celexa carries a C rating for safety during pregnancy but has trimester specific cautions and is generally avoided especially late in pregnancy. The safety of Celexa during lactation is uncertain.

Overall Celexa should be considered for treatment of major depressive disorder, especially in patients where there’s no history of bipolar disorder or symptoms to suggest bipolar disorder and when generic citalopram with its very low cost is attractive.

Celexa vs. Zoloft: A Comparison

Depression is a condition experienced by many people. It is a common occurrence and a normal part of life. Although there are treatments and therapy sessions that may help with this condition, the one that truly provides relief comes in the form of antidepressant drugs. For this reason, many patients who suffer depression would rather take medication. And doctors are willing to provide prescriptions too. The most popular drugs taken and prescribed for depression are Celexa vs. Zoloft.

Profiling Celexa vs. Zoloft

Both Celexa and Zoloft are under the group of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors or SSRIs. What these SSRIs do is that they stir some influence over the chemicals in the brain. Celexa takes effect by restoring the serotonin balance in the brain. Both Zoloft and Celexa can help in easing the symptoms which may occur involving a variety of psychological disorders.

Celexa is usually prescribed and used to treat depression. But it is also effective in treating other conditions. In the same way, Zoloft can treat several conditions aside from depression. It is sometimes prescribed for obsessive compulsive disorders. It can also be effective used to treat other disorders including the following: panic, anxiety as well as post traumatic stress disorder.

Precautionary Measures: Celexa vs. Zoloft

Taking other medications with Zoloft is not advised. Pimozide as well as the drugs under the Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor group or MAOI are prohibited. In case a patient is under any of these medications, he should duly inform his doctor about it. Most of the time, a patient will be required to get away from the medication within 14 days or more. This should be done even before Zoloft can be taken safely. In the same way, if a patient is currently taking Zoloft and is planning to go under MAOI treatment, the patient should stop taking Zoloft in the meantime and give his system at least 14 days to clean his system from Zoloft.

Zoloft is FDA approved. But even so, medication for Zoloft should still b given proper precaution. This is because Zoloft can possibly inhibit suicidal tendencies among young adults and teenagers. It is for this reason that Zoloft should be taken with the necessary precautionary measures. There are diagnostic check-ups which a Zoloft patient will have to go through and it usually takes place within the first twelve weeks of treatment.

On the other hand, Celexa should not be administered along with MAOI drugs too. In case the patient is currently taking MAOI for medication, a fourteen day restriction should be observed. In the same way that Zoloft has major side effects, Celexa can also bring about suicidal tendencies and this is why the treatment using this drug should be properly administered.

Caution for Celexa vs. Zoloft

Life is at risk. Taking either Celexa or Zoloft is something that should not be taken lightly. Patients who are under the treatment using these drugs should be very careful and precautious. Consulting with the doctor and due diligence in following the prescribed dosage is called for.

Debate Over Celexa vs. Paxil

Dealing with depression and anxiety is far from easy. First of all, the patient has to recognize the need for treatment. He has to accept the fact that he is affected by the condition first. And he must be willing to seek professional help about it. One of the means used by doctors to treat patient who suffer from anxiety and depression is anti depressant drugs. Although therapy session may help, it is known that medications provide a sure way of relief. However, these medications are far from perfect. As a matter of fact, they consist of side effects and certain risks. And this is why precaution is advised for patients who are under this kind of treatments. Among the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors or SSRIs widely spread today, Celexa and Paxil are two of the top names regarded by patients and doctors alike that provide some relief. But patients cannot help but wonder which of the two provide a much better kind of treatment Celexa vs. Paxil?

What To Know About Celexa vs. Paxil

Depression is not easy to battle with. And to fully combat or at least alleviate the difficult situation patients suffer from, they would need the help of an effective medication. One of the biggest questions that surround patients is the debate between Celexa vs. Paxil.

SSRIs are regarded as a better medication treatment for depression. This is because unlike their counterparts such as Tricyclic Antidepressants or TCas and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors or also known as MAOIs, SSRIs possess much lesser side effects. However, SSRIs fall on a heavier price tag. What SSRIs treat are the cases of major unipolar depression. This is the kind of depression that may impair the life of the patient such that he may not be able to do some of the things required in his day to day life.

Both Celexa and Paxil fall under the group of SSRI. Aside from depression, both drugs are also used as treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD. Celexa is also prescribed by doctors for patients with a panic disorder. On the other hand, Paxil may be prescribed for it but is not usually the case. Both drugs are known to cause insomnia as a side effect. They also result to dry mouth, nausea and dizziness. Celexa in particular, may lead to sexual dysfunction while Paxil can cause headaches, tremors and hypotension.

The Verdict: Celexa vs. Paxil

While no one can truly provide a straight answer for this puzzle, it is critical to note that it is impossible to single out one specific medication that can provide a solution to every case. As a matter of fact, depression and treatment is a case to case basis. It is not possible to define the best medication that will apply to all but there is always a specific medication that is suitable for a particular case. For this reason, patients should trust their doctor to find and recommend a medication that is right for them as individuals.

The Truth About Prescriptions: Celexa vs. Citalopram

When something is wrong naturally, an individual will seek a solution, one that truly works. But the case is not easy with those who fall under depression. It is not a good place to be at. These people really need help. One of the ways to give them the help they require is through medication treatment. But unlike anything else in the world, the answer to depression is not definite.

What To Note About Prescriptions

There is no such thing as best. When it comes to anti depressant drugs, no one can truly define a drug that works best on all. There is no perfect formula in identifying the type and brand of anti depressant medication that will be good for everyone. The truth is every individual’s reaction to the same drug may be different. So instead of seeking the best, a patient should seek for the most suitable for his condition and his specific case with the help of his doctor. This goes without saying that a patient should not bother himself with debates over Celexa vs. Citalopram.

There is no real and absolute answer. Doctors may be familiar with each of the drugs available. They are well aware of its effects and side effects. But there is no way for them to tell on which is the best between Celexa vs. Citalopram for instance. No matter how good the specialist is, the bottom line is that even between Celexa vs. Citalopram, the best cannot be determined. The patient has to be able to try the drug first and know its effect by observation before the respective doctors can determine whether it is the best for his case. But when it comes to the best that can fit all, it is impossible to answer. In other words, doctors do not always have the answer. When a patient walks in, they cannot truly identify if an anti depressant drug will absolutely work. There are factors involved and one of them is based on trial.

They base their decisions on making a prescription on an informed guess. They cannot truly know which medication works for their patient unless it is tried by the patient. So what doctors do most of the time is that they draw out an action plan for their patient. In this case, if the first prescription does not provide the solution or effect both the patient and the doctor are hoping for, there is always a ready and available fall back.

There is no giving up. All these things imply that it is a hit and miss formula. What patients can be assured of however is that doctors will not prescribe something out of a mere whim? Although the first prescriptions may come out as a guess, it is an informed one at that.

It may take several prescriptions before a patient will be able to find the medication that will give him the effect he seeks. Whether it is between Celexa vs. Citalopram or something else, patience and cooperation is much needed between the patient and the doctor in finding a solution to combat depression.

Important Notes On Celexa vs. Effexor

When dealing with certain conditions, patients cannot help but compare one against another. While there are many forums and patients who willingly hare their own experience about the anti depressant drugs they have taken, an individual should not merely rely on hearsay when it comes to these types of drugs. It is important that proper notes are read and understood about each medication including between celexa vs. effexor.

A Look At The Category: Celexa vs. Effexor

If Celexa is an SSRI drug, Effexor is under the category Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors or SSNRIs. But just the SSRI group including Celexa, SSNRI has a certain effect on the brain chemicals that can possibly become unbalanced. When such as not balanced, the individual may suffer from a condition more common that most people think, depression. Both Celexa and Effexor are used as part of treatment for the major depressive disorders as well as anxiety and panic disorder.

What To Avoid When Taking Celexa vs. Effexor

Patients who have certain allergic reactions to Citalopram or has a Long QT syndrome history should not take Celexa. On the other hand, patients who are allergic to Venlafaxine should avoid Effexor. But when taking either of the two medications, a patient should avoid MAO Inhibitors. It is an absolute no to take MAOI together with either Celexa or Effexor. The patient should steer clear of the current MAOI medication before he should start taking either of the drugs and this should be is at least 14 days prior to taking the new medication.

What Conditions To Watch Out For With Celexa vs. Effexor

Aside from the current and relevant history of medication, one of the important things to tell a doctor is about the patient’s condition. There are certain conditions that will help a doctor determine whether an anti depressant drug is right or safe for the patient or not. To help with this decision, the patient should share all relevant information about the conditions he suffers whether in the present or sometime in the past.

For Celexa, it is important to note any liver or kidney diseases which a patient may have suffered from. Other conditions involving the heart, electrolyte imbalance, epilepsy and bipolar disorder should be confided. If the patient has a history of drug abuse, the doctors should also learn about it. Any suicidal thoughts or tendencies should also be duly noted. This is very critical especially for patients who are 24 years old or perhaps younger of age.

Before a patient accepts any prescription particularly of Effexor, he should be advising his doctor if he has suffered or suffers from manic depression. If he had cirrhosis or liver and kidney disease, the doctor should know about it too. Patients with glaucoma, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels should serve this to the attention of the specialist attending to them. Conditions involving seizures and blood clotting should also be properly addressed before the prescription details are handed. Suicidal thoughts and tendencies should also be properly noted for patients who are taking Effexor medication.

SSRI or also known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor is a category for anti depressant medication. What it does is it works to increase the serotonin concentration present in the human brain. Serotonin is a chemical present in the central nervous system. It is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for influencing appetite, memory, sleep, pain and mood. It also affects the process of hormone secretion. By increasing the level of serotonin concentration in the brain, SSRIs help in providing relief for depression. There are other types of depression medication but SSRIs are preferred over the other types. The reason is that SSRIs possess lesser side effects and may be less prone to abuse.

Under the SSRI category is a list of various brand names including Celexa vs. Wellbutrin. Thesetwo may be similar in some ways but they also contain notable differences. Rather than pondering on the debate over Celexa vs. Wellbutrin, it will be more practical to go through the process of defining which of the two is applicable for the patient’s case. But for the purpose of debate, below are some of the notable differences and similarities between these two drugs.

The Case Of Celexa vs. Wellbutrin

Celexa and Wellbutrin are known for treating depression. But aside from treating this specific condition, there are other cases in which their use may be deemed appropriate. As such they are also a recommended treatment for mental illness as well as for smoking cessation. And because these two like most SSRIs or anti depressant medications for that matter, involve some side effects, they can only be obtained by prescription.

Side Effects Involving Celexa vs. Wellbutrin

Among the list side effects involved in the usage of these two types of medication, a change in mood and behavior are the most notable. Since there are known effects on both the behavior and mood of patients taking the medication, it may also trigger suicidal tendencies. This is why patients have to be monitored closely by a specialist. If the patient experiences any symptoms, it should be reported directly to the doctor handling his case. This is to control the side effects which may be experienced under the treatment with the drug either by changing the dosage or prescribing another medication. Some of the mood changes which may come about with the use of these anti depressant drugs are trouble with sleeping, panic attacks, anxiety disorders, restlessness, aggressiveness, hostility and others. There are also prohibitions with regard to the treatment using these medications. And the patient should note and follow such prohibitions strictly.

Another side effect that may come about with the use of Celexa and Wellbutrin is sexual dysfunction. In case a patient experiences any changes in sexual behavior including loss of sex drive and the like, such should be duly put to the attention of the attending physician. In most cases, the effect is only temporary, serving as an initial reaction to the dug. But to be on the safe side, patients should have it noted by the doctor.

There are other notable similarities between the two drugs but what is important is to note which one is suitable to treat a patient individually and not conclusively. What may work for one may not be the case for another.

There have been many studies that attempt to make out the differences among the anti depressant drugs available in the market today. This has served as a means to identify which drug may be the best. But for practical purposes, it is much better to identify the effectiveness of a depression medication per individual rather than single out a generic best for all patients. But then again, individuals cannot be helped but ask questions with regard to Celexa vs. Prozac for instance. Rather than taking a look at the differences between the two or basing the decision on other people’s experiences involving Celexa vs. Prozac, it may be more practical for a patient t assess his own condition and from there, base an informed decision. The following is a guide on how to determine an effective anti depressant drug for an individual’s case.

Celexa vs. Prozac: How To Determine Which Is Suitable

Think of the energy level. Some patients may have lower energy levels than others. And there are appropriate SSRIs to help them. There are SSRIs that are more appropriate for sedation and others are more effective at stimulating energy. Determine the appropriate drug that can help achieve the desired result noting energy level as an essential factor.

Determine the usage of medication. SSRIs are not advised to be taken along side other medications. Whether it is Celexa vs. Prozac a patient is taking, they have their own lists of medications to avoid as word of warning. A patient should identify such drugs including the herbal remedies that can possibly work against the SSRI prescription. Check on the medical record. Aside from the medicine intake, a patient also needs to relay previous medical record. It matters if the patient has suffered from certain medical conditions in the past or at present. This is because the SSRI intake may trigger a reaction that will further heighten the condition. This is one of the top precautionary moves a patient and a doctor has to take.

Monitor the changes. Once a patient has been prescribed with an SSRI, he is advises to make regular appointments with his specialist. There is a need to monitor his condition noting of the symptoms. This is very important in addressing and controlling the side effects that may come about from the use of the SSRI.

Patience is advised. Prescription is generally a hit and miss process. Although the specialist may know of all the necessary information about the drugs and the patient’s case, there is no way to determine the most effective drug without trial. It may take more than one prescription before the patient can find the SSRI that will work best for his own condition. It takes time and patience to determine which drug is most suitable for his case. It may help to listen from other people’s advice based on their experience but there is never an actual guarantee. The best way to find the most effective is still to experience the treatment under the specific drug.

There are many types of medication formulated to help treat depression. But many people are puzzled with comparison of these medications. For instance, there are questions surrounding the difference of Celexa vs. Lexapro. These two anti depressant drugs are licensed for the treatment of depression. They both belong under the category of SSRI or Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and so they possess similarities in their chemical components but at a closer look, they are different from each other too. It is not just the branding that is the matterof difference. They vary in some chemical components as well as the side effects. For instance, Lexapro is a certified drug for anxiety disorders. Celexa on the other hand, is perhaps the only drug that has a generic counterpart. Below is a closer look at their major differences.

Celexa vs. Lexapro: A Matter of Differences

People cannot sometimes make a difference between Celexa vs. Lexapro. This is because they have similar molecular components. Celexa was made available first. What is notable is that Celexa is a combination of citalopram R and S enantiomers while Lexapro consists of citalopram S enantiomers. Simply put, enantiomers have essential similarities but they also possess notable differences. To provide further explanation, specialists use the left and the right hand as point of comparison. This means that although they are similar in so many ways, they are also very different and may also be considered as opposites.  There are researches and data on depression that explain further the importance of the S factor in citalopram for enantiomer.  It is regarded as a more active component in treating depression as compared to the R enantiomer. This is the main reason that Lexapro is formulated to consists the S enantiomer.

Celexa vs. Lexapro: Defining The Differences

In layman’s terms, Lexapro and Celexa are both qualified drugs in medication of depression.  Lexapro however, is much more suitable and recommended for treating anxiety disorder.  Although this does not imply in any way that Celexa does not have the capability to treat anxiety as well, it may not be prescribed for such. The main reason is that there is a lack of research studies that prove Celexa is effective in the treatment of anxiety.

When it comes to the effectiveness of the medication, some people claim that one is more superior than the other. But this is just a matter of experience. There is no conclusive study that proves Celexa is much more effective than Lexapro or the other way around. Although patients may suffer from the same condition of depression, they have different reactions to each of the medication too. This simply means that what is effective in one may not be as recommended for another.

This may mean that there is no real answer to the debate over Celexa vs. Lexapro. To note the effectiveness of these medications, a patient has to try them to know for sure with the recommendation of a specialist of course. The decision cannot just be based on other people’s experiences as patients differ as individuals and their reactions to the drug vary too.