Celexa is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by restoring the balance of serotonin, a natural occuring substance found in the brain, which helps to improve certain mood problems.
rnCelexa is used to treat depression.
rnCelexa may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.
Do not take Celexa together with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate). You must wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAOI before you can take Celexa. After you stop taking Celexa, you must wait at least 14 days before you start taking an MAOI.
rnYou may have thoughts about suicide when you first start taking an antidepressant, especially if you are younger than 24 years old. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks of treatment with Celexa.
rnCall your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Some antidepressants may cause serious or life-threatening lung problems in newborn babies whose mothers take the medication during pregnancy. However, you may have a relapse of depression if you stop taking your antidepressant during pregnancy. If you are planning a pregnancy, or if you become pregnant while taking Celexa, do not stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: skin rash or hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
rnCall your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.
rnCall your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
rnvery stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, overactive reflexes;
rnnausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, feeling unsteady, loss of coordination; or
rnheadache, trouble concentrating, memory problems, weakness, confusion, hallucinations, fainting, seizure, shallow breathing or breathing that stops.
rnLess serious Celexa side effects may include:
rndrowsiness;
rnsleep problems (insomnia);
rnmild nausea, gas, upset stomach;
rnweight changes;
rnurinating more than usual;
rndecreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm;
rndry or watery mouth, yawning; or
rncold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.
Take Celexa exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from the medication.
rnTry to take the medicine at the same time each day. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
rnTo be sure you get the correct dose of liquid Celexa, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
rnIt may take 4 weeks or longer before you start feeling better. Do not stop using Celexa without first talking to your doctor. You may have unpleasant side effects if you stop taking this medication suddenly. Store Celexa at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
