Celexa

CELEXA DRUG INFORMATION

CITALOPRAM - ORAL (sye-TAL-oh-pram)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Celexa

USES:

This medication is used in the treatment of depression. It works by helping to restore the balance of natural chemicals in the brain.

OTHER USES:

Celexa has also been used to treat certain eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia.

HOW TO USE:

Take this medication is taken once daily by mouth, with or without food depending on personal preference; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage will vary depending on your medical condition and response to this therapy. It is important to continue taking this medication as prescribed even if you feel well; it is important not to stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. This medication may take several weeks, before the patient feels its full effects.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Some of the most common side effects are: nausea, drowsiness, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, upset stomach, or dry mouth. These symptoms may not need medical attention, however if any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. There is a possibility of more serious side effects and if you experience any of the following contact your doctor immediately. Symptoms such as: vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual or severe mental or mood changes, increased sweating or flushing, unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor). Consult your doctor immediately if any of these rare but serious side effects occur: blurred vision, stomach pain, fever, joint pain, muscle pain, unusually fast heartbeat, decreased interest in sex, changes in sexual ability, and change in amount of urine. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: unusual swelling of the hands, feet, or face; taste changes; changes in menstrual period; seizures; painful and/or prolonged erection; weight changes. It is also recommended that if you notice other effects not listed above; contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS:

Tell your doctor your entire medical history, especially if your have suffered from: seizures; liver problems; kidney problems; thyroid problems; heart problems; other mental or mood disorders, including bipolar disorder; and any allergies. This medication may make you dizzy or drowsy; it is always recommended to use caution engaging in activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating machinery. Limit or avoid alcoholic beverages. The elderly should always consult their doctor about the benefits and risks of this drug, because they could be more sensitive to its effects. Women who are pregnant should only use this medication when it is clearly needed, and should consult their doctor about all of the risks concerning this medication. Since this drug passes into breast milk, women who are nursing should consult their doctor before breast feeding, because of the potential risk to the infant. It is not recommended to breast-feed while using this medication.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:

Certain medications could have serious and sometimes fatal drug interactions if taken with this medication. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors such as, furazolidone, isocarboxazid, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, and tranylcypromine within 2 weeks before or after treatment with this medication. Consult your health care provider before taking this medication with: weight loss drugs such as, sibutramine, phentermine. For more details ask your doctor or pharmacist. It is always important to tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: other SSRI antidepressants including, fluoxetine, sertraline; nefazodone; trazodone; tramadol; venlafaxine; "triptan" migraine drugs such as, sumatriptan, zolmitriptan; tricyclic antidepressants including, amitriptyline, nortriptyline; cimetidine; lithium; itraconazole, macrolide antibiotics such as, clarithromycin, erythromycin; any herbal or natural products including, melatonin, St John's wort, ayahuasca. Consult your doctor if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness such as: sleeping medications; sedatives; tranquilizers; anti- anxiety drugs such as, diazepam; narcotic pain relievers including, codeine; psychiatric medicines including, phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine; anti-seizure drugs such as, carbamazepine; muscle relaxants; certain antihistamines including, diphenhydramine. It is vital never to start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE:

Contact your local emergency room or poison control center if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of overdose may include: irregular heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness or lightheadedness.

NOTES:

Never share prescription medication with others. To monitor your progress laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed.

MISSED DOSE:

In the event that you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember before it is close to time to take your next dose, then simply skip it and resume taking as scheduled. It is important never to “double-up” on this medication.

STORAGE:

This medication should be stored at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F or 15 and 30 degrees C away from light and moisture.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

This information is not intended to replace the knowledge and skills of a qualified healthcare provider. While the following can be a valuable resource, this drug may not be safe or effective for everyone. You should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking any prescription medication.