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What
is Celexa?
Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide) is a highly selective serotonin
reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that was approved by the FDA for
the treatment of depression in July of 1998. It is a widely
prescribed medication both in the United States and in many
other countries around the world. Celexa was developed by
the Danish pharmaceutical firm H. Lundbeck A/S and is marketed
in the U.S. by Forest Laboratories.
How
is Celexa different from other antidepressants?
Celexa has a chemical structure unrelated to that of other
SSRIs. It is a highly selective inhibitor of serotonin reuptake
with little or no affinity for other neurotransmitter receptors.
Celexa may also cause less drug interactions than some other
antidepressants, which could make it a good choice for medically
compromised individuals such as the elderly or those with
comorbid illness. Additionally, Celexa appears to be safe
to use on a long-term basis and may cause less withdrawal
than other antidepressants when use is stopped.
Several studies
have also revealed other possible applications for this antidepressant.
Celexa was shown to be effective in treating post-stroke depression
and in alleviating emotional disturbances in elderly consumers
with dementia disorders. Like other SSRIs, Celexa may also
prove to be effective in the treatment of anxiety disorders
such as panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
It is important to note that these observations are based
on a few limited studies. So far, Celexa has only been approved
for the treatment of depression in the U.S.
What
are the side effects of Celexa?
The side effects most frequently reported with Celexa tend
to be those associated with other SSRIs. However, some note
these effects to be less extreme. The most commonly reported
side effects are increased sweating, sleepiness, nausea, tremor,
dry mouth, lack or loss of strength, headache, weight loss
or gain, dizziness, and restlessness. Such adverse events
usually decrease in intensity and frequency as the depressive
state improves. Sexual side effects also occur, and these
often do not diminish over time. Clinical evidence also shows
that Celexa is not associated with tachycardia or postural
hypotension.
How
does Celexa interact with other medications?
Like other SSRIs, Celexa should not be taken with monoamine
oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Although Celexa is noted for its
reduced instances of drug interactions, you should always
let your doctor know what other medications you are taking.
What
is the standard dosage of Celexa?
It is recommended that Celexa be administered as a single
oral dose of 20 mg daily. Depending on individual patient
response, this may be increased to a maximum of 60 mg daily
for adults or 30 mg daily for the elderly.
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