For those people with depression, the medication citalopram, or Celexa, can help to counteract their symptoms and help them to lead happier lives. As with any medicine, however, any person taking it should be mindful of citalopram side effects. The negative effects which are associated with this medication range from mild and annoying to severe and life-threatening.
One system which could potentially be affected by citalopram includes the gastrointestinal system. Some of the negative reactions which can occur range from those as simple as dry mouth, to the more noticeable effects of nausea and vomiting.
Celexa can also cause problems associated with a person’s physical orientation. In some individuals, the medication can cause dizziness, which can range from mild to severe.
The medicine can also cause problems with the sleep cycle. Depending on the patient, the side effects can go from one extreme to the next. While one person may experience drowsiness, another person may have difficulty either falling asleep or staying asleep.
Sexual function can also be affected by the medication citalopram. In men, this could range from erectile dysfunction to the inability to reach climax. In women, frigidity and excessive dryness could potentially occur.
Because citalopram works on the chemicals of the brain, the most prevalent and common side effects could affect a person’s mental status and mood. An individual taking the medication has the potential to experience such mood changes as irritability and increased agitation. The medication could also cause confusion and disorientation to a person’s surroundings and memory.
As with any anti-depressant, the most severe of the citalopram adverse effects is suicidal thoughts. Because of the effect on the chemicals in the brain, the medication could possibly increase a person’s depression, causing them to become suicidal. Especially when first taking citalopram, an individual should be observed very closely for these tendencies, as this is an emergency situation and requires immediate medical intervention.
Celexa has helped many people combat the detrimental symptoms of depression, helping them to lead healthy, happy lives. And although citalopram, as with any medicine, has side effects, it should not keep a person from taking advantage of its benefits. By being aware of the potential adverse reactions, both mild and severe, it is possible for any individual taking the medication to counteract any of the harmful effects. And if there are any concerns or questions, they should be discussed with a trained professional.