Celexa Side Effects

Celexa is a common antidepressant drug that is often prescribed by physicians to treat different psychological maladies. As with any other drug, celexa has some side effects as well. Nonetheless, in most cases the side effects subside slowly but surely exclusive of any medication or can be treated easily. In fact, not all patients experience these side effects and most people put up with them well. Nonetheless, some people may find these side effects vexing and lingering for just too long. A research study has revealed that 21 percent patients undergoing celexa treatment may experience nausea; while up to 20 percent patients experience dry mouth symptoms when taking celexa.  The study has also brought to light that up to 15 percent patients may experience insomnia, while 11 percent patients may experience increased sweating. To learn more about the other important side effects of celexa read through the section that follows.   

• Many patients undergoing celexa treatment may notice weight gain. If you notice you are gaining weight after you have started using celexa, consult your physician for an alternative antidepressant. Your physician might also suggest a change in lifestyle, eating heart-healthy foods, and limiting alcohol intake, in case you are a heavy drinker.
• Like all other groups of ‘serotonin reuptake inhibitors’ or SSRI drugs, celexa is also known to cause certain sexual side effects. If you are under celexa treatment, you may notice decreased libido or a reduced sex drive, difficulties in reaching orgasm, ejaculation problems, erectile dysfunction and impotence.  Many patients also experience priapism or a painful erection that does not go away. A research study has revealed that 3.8 percent men and 1.3 percent women experienced decreased sex drive after taking this drug.
• A common side effect of celexa in men is delayed ejaculation. Many healthcare providers use this property of celexa to treat men who have problems with premature ejaculation. If you notice delayed ejaculation after using celexa, consult your physician at the earliest.
• Many patients complain about insomnia while under celexa treatment. If you too are suffering from insomnia due to celexa, try improving your sleeping routine by maintaining a regular sleep-wake-cycle. Your physician may also recommend avoiding exercises within two hours of bedtime and sleeping in a dark room with a comfortable temperature. If you have the habit of taking an afternoon nap, then avoid napping after 3 pm.
• Weight loss is common in patients using celexa. Although it is not exactly clear why celexa induces weight loss, the common causes can be loss of appetite, nausea, and diarrhea that all contribute to the unintended weight loss.
• Although it is not very frequent, some people may suffer from hair loss problems after taking celexa.
• Many patients experience a dry mouth after they start taking this drug. If you are bothered with the dry mouth problem, try including spicy and slightly salty food in your diet, use a humidifier at night, and sip water of sugar free drinks frequently. If you are a smoker or a drinker, avoid tobacco and alcohol as much as possible.
• Celexa is to be strictly avoided by pregnant women as it can lead to miscarriages and other grim complications.