Questions about citalopram (Celexa)

[Burnt Offerings]

Hey, I was recently prescribed this drug for some major anxiety issues I've been dealing with recently, figured I'd give it a shot, and I just had a few questions regarding it:

1) If I stop taking the drug after taking it for a while, how bad are SSRI withdrawals? How shitty will I feel?
2) How does the drug interact with recreational drugs? I know about the whole MDMA thing, but do SSRI's "block" any other drugs?
3) Is there a risk of developing depression or mood disorders from taking this drug, in non-depressed individuals?

 

[T. Calderone]

The discontinuation syndrome would be more harsh for a person who had been taking it for a long period. For example, I was prescribed citalopram back in March and had a liver scare in June. So I decided to abruptly quit taking all my prescriptions. I didn't have any noticeable bad effects but I was a nervous wreck anyway. I'm back on it now along with mirtazapine.

The most common SSRI withdrawal symptoms are dizziness, moodiness (or return of depression) headache, flu-like symptoms, faintness and anxiety. I imagine it would be worse for a person on large doses as opposed to moderate usage.

Use caution when using other drugs that may cause bleeding such as NSAIDS. You already know not to mix with MDMA. Also be careful with St John's wort and MAO inhibitors. Avoid antihistamines and alcohol. The pharmacy leaflet is pretty comprehensive.

I'm not sure at all if there is a risk of developing depression from using citalopram, since one of it's purposes is to counteract depression. Perhaps someone with more experience can share their experiences. Hope it helps you and wish you the best.

 

[Doldrugs]

That's all good advice from T. Calderone. I'm on escitalopram and I use NSAIDs very infrequently, completely avoid MAOIs, and don't take MDMA ( ). I'm not much of a drinker but I've had no issues with alcohol. In my experience it depends on the drug, the dose, and the person. I think it's wise to proceed with caution. Psychedelics are slightly muted but still work great.

If I miss a day, I feel it. It's both physical (mild flu like effects, tiredness) and mental (depression, apathy, anxiety). So I can imagine how awful a full on withdrawal would be. I find weed is a perfect solution if I forget.

I believe all SSRIs can potentially worsen depression and cause suicidal ideation. I've been on a ton of different depression and anxiety medications and some of them did increase my depression. I believe it's fairly rare but be vigilant and if you notice your mood worsening or negative thoughts intruding talk to your doctor immediately.

Finding the right medication for depression or anxiety can be a miserable process but if you're successful it's well worth it. A lot of people are skeptical or downright hostile toward SSRIs around here and I understand where that comes from, but lexapro dramatically increased my quality of life.