Introduction
Celexa interventions: Other drugs, alcohol, and additional factors
Celexa, the brand name for citalopram, is a prescribed medication utilized to manage major depressive disorder in adults. Like other medications, Celexa may have interactions with certain drugs and supplements. When one substance influences another to produce a different effect than anticipated, an interaction occurs.
For more specific information about Celexa's interactions and what substances to avoid while taking it, continue reading. Additional details about Celexa can be found in this article.
Avoiding Celexa
Certain factors or conditions might prevent your doctor from prescribing Celexa due to potential harm. These are referred to as contraindications. The contraindications for Celexa include:
Drug type or drug name
Consumption of pimozide
Drug examples
Before starting Celexa treatment, inform your doctor if you consume pimozide. This drug is used to manage symptoms of Tourette’s syndrome.
Interaction result with Celexa
Celexa can raise the amount of pimozide in your body, heightening your risk of severe side effects, such as cardiac issues. Due to this risk, doctors usually won't prescribe Celexa if you're taking pimozide. Instead, they may suggest an alternative treatment option for you.
Use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
If you're taking any MAOIs or have taken them within the past 14 days, inform your doctor prior to starting Celexa treatment. Similar to Celexa, MAOIs are utilized to manage depression.
• linezolid (Zyvox)• methylene blue (ProvayBlue)• tranylcypromine (Parnate)• phenelzine (Nardil)• selegiline (Emsam)• isocarboxazid (Marplan)
Combining an MAOI with Celexa can increase your risk of a serious side effect called serotonin syndrome. (Serotonin syndrome occurs when a chemical called serotonin builds up in your body. High levels of serotonin may lead to life-threatening side effects, such as seizures.*)
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and MAOIs
Due to this risk, doctors typically won't prescribe Celexa along with MAOIs. In fact, they'll recommend waiting at least 14 days after discontinuing an MAOI before starting Celexa treatment. Examples of MAOIs include:
- linezolid (Zyvox)
- methylene blue (ProvayBlue)
- tranylcypromine (Parnate)
- phenelzine (Nardil)
- selegiline (Emsam)
- isocarboxazid (Marplan)
CYP2C19 blockers
Allergic reaction to Celexa or its components
• omeprazole (Prilosec)• cimetidine (Tagamet)• esomeprazole (Nexium)
If you've had an allergic reaction to Celexa or any of its components, your doctor probably won't prescribe Celexa. Taking the drug could cause another allergic reaction. You can discuss other treatment options with them.
can increase the risk of side effects from Celexa*
Note: Before you begin treatment with Celexa, it's essential to inform your doctor if any of these contraindications apply to you. They can use this information to decide whether to prescribe Celexa.
Celexa's Interactions with Other Medications
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Before starting treatment with Celexa, share with your doctor and pharmacist which prescription, over-the-counter, and other medications you take. Providing this information may help prevent possible interactions.
• escitalopram (Lexapro)• fluoxetine (Prozac)• paroxetine (Paxil)
If you have queries about drug interactions that could affect you, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and SSRIs
The following is a table of drugs that may interact with Celexa. Keep in mind that this table doesn't include all drugs that may interact with Celexa. Some of these interactions are described in detail just below in “Drug interactions in depth.”
Drug Category or Substance | Drug Examples | Interaction Consequences with Celexa----------------------------------- | -------------------------- | ---------------------------------------Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) | • linezolid (Zyvox)• methylene blue (ProvayBlue)• tranylcypromine (Parnate)• phenelzine (Nardil)• selegiline (Emsam)• isocarboxazid (Marplan) | May boost Celexa's side effects and those of MAOIsCYP2C19 Inhibitors | • omeprazole (Prilosec)• cimetidine (Tagamet)• esomeprazole (Nexium) | Potential to enhance Celexa's side effectsSelective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) | • escitalopram (Lexapro)• fluoxetine (Prozac)• paroxetine (Paxil) | May exacerbate side effects from both Celexa and other SSRIsDrugs that Cause Long QT Syndrome | • amiodarone (Pacerone)• hydroxyzine (Vistaril)• aripiprazole (Abilify) | May heighten side effects from both Celexa and drugs that prolong QT intervalAnticoagulants and Antiplatelets | • aspirin• apixaban (Eliquis)• celecoxib (Celebrex)• warfarin (Jantoven) | Could amplify side effects from both Celexa and anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugsTricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) | • amitriptyline• nortriptyline (Pamelor)• doxepin (Silenor) | Might intensify side effects from both Celexa and TCAsSerotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) | • desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)• venlafaxine (Effexor XR)• duloxetine (Cymbalta) | May aggravate side effects from both Celexa and SNRIsMigraine Drugs | • rizatriptan (Maxalt)• sumatriptan (Imitrex)• zolmitriptan (Zomig) | May elevate side effects from both Celexa and migraine medicationCertain Stimulant Drugs | • lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)• methylphenidate (Ritalin)• amphetamine salts (Adderall) | May amplify side effects from both Celexa and certain stimulant drugsDiuretics | • hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide)• furosemide (Lasix)• spironolactone (Aldactone) | May amplify side effects from both Celexa and diureticsCertain Pain Medications | • tramadol (Ultram)• oxycodone (Roxicodone)• methadone (Methadose)• fentanyl (Fentora, Actiq) | May amplify side effects from both Celexa and certain pain medicationsCertain Antibiotics or Antifungals | • gatifloxacin (Zymar, Zymaxid)• moxifloxacin (Vigamox)• clarithromycin• ketoconazole (Nizoral) | May amplify side effects from both Celexa and certain antibiotics or antifungalsNonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) | • ibuprofen• diclofenac (Zipsor, Cambia) | May amplify side effects from both Celexa and NSAIDsLithium (Lithobid) | — | May amplify side effects from both Celexa and lithiumOndansetron (Zofran) | — | May amplify side effects from both Celexa and ondansetronPhentermine (Adipex-P) | — | May amplify side effects from both Celexa and phentermineBuspirone | — | May amplify side effects from both Celexa and buspironeCarbamazepine (Tegretol) | — | May reduce Celexa's effectivenessPimozide | — | May intensify side effects from pimozide
drugs that cause long QT syndrome
Detailed Drug Interactions
• amiodarone (Pacerone)• hydroxyzine (Vistaril)• aripiprazole (Abilify)
In-depth examination of certain drug interactions with Celexa.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and drugs that prolong QT interval
Certain Stimulant Drugs
These drugs are often utilized for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy (a condition characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness).
anticoagulants and antiplatelets
Interaction outcome. Consumption of Celexa and stimulant drugs may escalate the chance of serotonin toxicity, a severe side effect.
• aspirin• apixaban (Eliquis)• celecoxib (Celebrex)• warfarin (Jantoven)
Interaction breakdown. Both Celexa and certain stimulant drugs can augment the serotonin level in your body. The concoction of Celexa and stimulant drugs can elevate serotonin to an unsafe level. In uncommon instances, this can lead to serotonin toxicity, which may instigate critical side effects, like convulsions.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs
Examples of stimulant drugs. Here are some stimulant drugs that might interact with Celexa:
- lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
- methylphenidate (Ritalin)
- amphetamine salts (Adderall)
tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
Actions you or your doctor may undertake. Inform your doctor if you’re utilizing any stimulant drugs prior to initiating treatment with Celexa. Owing to the risk of serotonin toxicity, your doctor may monitor you more frequently if you use Celexa with specific stimulant drugs.
• amitriptyline• nortriptyline (Pamelor)• doxepin (Silenor)
It's crucial to be aware of the symptoms of serotonin toxicity so that you can seek urgent medical assistance promptly if you manifest any. Symptoms may include anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, and muscle spasms. Other potential symptoms may be alterations in heart rate or blood pressure.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and TCAs
Your doctor can aid in determining whether it’s safe to utilize Celexa alongside specific stimulant drugs.
Ondansetron (Zofran)
serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Ondansetron is a medication frequently employed to alleviate nausea or vomiting.
• desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)• venlafaxine (Effexor XR)• duloxetine (Cymbalta)
Interaction outcome. Co-administration of Celexa and ondansetron can heighten the risk of heart issues or serotonin toxicity.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and SNRIs
Interaction breakdown. The combination of ondansetron and Celexa might induce modifications in your heart rhythm. Therefore, taking these drugs together can elevate your risk of an arrhythmia. Furthermore, both drugs can augment the serotonin level in your body. Co-administration of Celexa and ondansetron can amplify serotonin to an unsafe level. In uncommon instances, this can induce serotonin toxicity, a serious side effect.
Actions you or your doctor may undertake. Inform your doctor if you're utilizing ondansetron (Zofran) prior to commencing Celexa treatment. Your doctor might recommend avoiding Celexa with ondansetron. However, if they prescribe ondansetron alongside Celexa, your doctor may monitor you more frequently throughout your treatment. This may include ordering blood tests and checking your heart function.
migraine drugs
Moreover, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms of serotonin toxicity. This is so you can seek immediate hospitalization if you manifest any. Symptoms may include anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, and muscle spasms. Other symptoms may include alterations in heart rate or blood pressure.
• rizatriptan (Maxalt)• sumatriptan (Imitrex)• zolmitriptan (Zomig)
Engage in a conversation with your doctor to determine whether co-administration of Celexa and ondansetron is safe for you.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and migraine drugs
Phentermine
Phentermine is employed to facilitate weight loss.
certain stimulant drugs
Interaction outcome. Co-administration of Celexa and phentermine can magnify the risk of serotonin toxicity.
• lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)• methylphenidate (Ritalin)• amphetamine salts (Adderall)
Interaction breakdown. It’s possible for both Celexa and phentermine to augment the serotonin level in your body. Co-administration of Celexa and phentermine can amplify serotonin to an unsafe level. This may induce serotonin toxicity, which is an uncommon, serious side effect.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and certain stimulant drugs
Actions you or your doctor may undertake. Inform your doctor if you're utilizing phentermine (Adipex-P) prior to commencing Celebra. Due to the risk of serotonin toxicity, your doctor may monitor you more frequently if you utilize both phentermine and Celebra. You should be aware of the symptoms of serotonin toxicity. This is so you can seek immediate hospitalization if you manifest any. Symptoms may include anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, and muscle spasms. Other symptoms may include alterations in heart rate or blood pressure.
Your doctor can aid in determining whether it’s safe for you to utilize Celebra alongside phentermine.
diuretics
Celebra interaction with alcohol
• hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide)• furosemide (Lasix)• spironolactone (Aldactone)
Celebra is not known to interact with alcohol.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and diuretics
However, your doctor may recommend abstaining from alcohol while you’re utilizing Celebra. The combination of alcohol and Celebra may amplify your risk of severe side effects such as:
- trouble breathing or slower breathing rate
- bleeding in your stomach or intestines
- drowsiness
- confusion
- nausea or vomiting
- low blood pressure
certain pain medications
Talk with your doctor if you’d like to consume alcohol while you’re utilizing Celebra. They can help determine whether it’s safe for you.
• tramadol (Ultram)• oxycodone (Roxicodone)• methadone (Methadose)• fentanyl (Fentora, Actiq)
Celebra and other interactions
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and certain pain medications
Celebra may have other interactions, such as with supplements, foods, vaccines, or even lab tests. You’ll find details below. Keep in mind that the following information does not include all other possible interactions with Celebra.
Celebra interactions and supplements
certain antibiotics or antifungals
Before you commence treatment with Celebra, inform your doctor and pharmacist which supplements, herbs, and vitamins you utilize. By sharing this information with them, you may assist in preventing possible interactions.
• gatifloxacin (Zymar, Zymaxid)• moxifloxacin (Vigamox)• clarithromycin• ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Certain supplements, such as tryptophan, may heighten your risk of a rare condition called serotonin toxicity. (With serotonin toxicity, a chemical called serotonin accumulates in your body. High levels of serotonin may lead to life threatening side effects, such as seizures.) You may have an increased risk of this condition if you’re taking multiple substances that can augment your serotonin level.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and certain antibiotics or antifungals
If you have questions about drug interactions that may impact you, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
Celexa and Natural Remedies
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
There's a chance that consuming certain natural remedies, like St. John's Wort, could boost your chance of experiencing serotonin syndrome. This risk might be higher if you're using other substances that raise your serotonin level.
• ibuprofen• diclofenac (Zipsor, Cambia)
If you're utilizing any natural remedies in conjunction with Celexa, it's crucial to consult your doctor. In some situations, they might suggest stopping those remedies during Celexa therapy to prevent any potential conflicts.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and NSAIDs
Celexa and Vitamins
At this time, there aren't any specific reports of vitamins interfering with Celexa. However, future interactions with vitamins could be identified. Due to this potential risk, it's essential to talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using any vitamin product with Celexa. They can also address any concerns about Celexa's interaction with vitamins.
lithium (Lithobid)
Celexa and Food
—
There haven't been any reports of food interactions with Celexa. If you'd like to understand more about consuming certain foods during Celexa treatment, it's best to speak with your doctor.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and lithium
Celexa and Vaccines
Celexa isn't known to interact with any vaccines. To learn about the vaccines recommended for you, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
ondansetron (Zofran)
Celexa and Lab Tests
—
There aren't any known interactions between Celexa and lab tests. If you have queries about lab tests and Celexa, speak with your doctor.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and ondansetron
*CELEXA AND CANNABIS OR CBDCannabis (commonly referred to as marijuana) and cannabis products, such as cannabidiol (CBD), haven't been explicitly reported* to interfere with Celexa. Nevertheless, it's advisable to converse with your doctor before using cannabis alongside Celexa. Combining cannabis might influence your adherence to the Celexa treatment plan.
Note: Cannabis is federally illegal. However, it's legal in numerous U.S. states to different degrees.
phentermine (Adipex-P)
Celebra and Health-Related Interactions
—
Certain medical conditions and factors could increase the risk of Celexa interactions. Prior to taking this medication, make sure to discuss your medical history with your doctor. Celexa might not be the optimal treatment option for you if you have specific medical conditions or factors affecting your health.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and phentermine
Medical conditions or factors that might boost the risk of interactions with Celexa include:
Risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in young adults and children. This medication has been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and actions* in young adults and children. This risk was observed in clinical trials of children and adults ages 24 years and younger taking antidepressant* drugs such as Celexa. For further information, refer to the "Boxed warning" at the top of this article.
buspirone
Mood problems. Inform your doctor if you or a family member has a history of mood disorders. These include depression, bipolar disorder, and suicidal thoughts or actions**. This medication may raise your likelihood of mood problems, including suicidal thoughts or actions.
—
If you or a family member have a history of mood problems, Celexa may increase the likelihood of them occurring or worsening. In this case, your doctor may suggest monitoring your mood more frequently before you take Celexa. In some instances, they might recommend an alternative treatment for you.
can increase the risk of side effects from both Celexa* and buspirone
Heart problems. Inform your doctor if you have or have had any heart problems. These include heart failure, irregular heart rhythm, or a history of heart attack. Celexa can cause an irregular heart rhythm, known as long QT syndrome. If you already have heart problems, this medication may worsen your condition. Your doctor can help establish whether Celexa is a safe treatment option for you.
Low electrolyte levels in your blood. Before taking Celexa, inform your doctor if you have a history of low electrolyte levels in your blood. These include low potassium, magnesium, or sodium levels.
carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Celexa may cause long QT syndrome. If you have low electrolyte levels, Celexa may increase the risk of this condition. In this case, your doctor may want to correct your electrolyte levels before you start taking Celexa. This could include administering fluids, medication, or supplements.
—
Bleeding problems. Celexa may increase your likelihood of bleeding. This may include bruising, nosebleeds, or even life-threatening bleeding, such as a stomach ulcer. If you have any conditions that increase your likelihood of bleeding, taking Celexa may exacerbate this problem. Your doctor can help determine whether it's safe for you to take Celexa in this situation.
can decrease the effectiveness of Celexa
Seizures. In rare cases, it's possible for Celexa to increase your likelihood of seizures. If you have a seizure disorder, this medication may further boost your likelihood of having a seizure. Talk with your doctor to ascertain whether Celexa may be a safe treatment option for you.
Glaucoma. Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma before taking Celexa. It's possible for Celexa to raise the pressure in your eyes, which can exacerbate glaucoma. Your doctor can help determine whether Celexa is safe for you to take in this situation.
pimozide
Liver issues. If your liver isn't functioning optimally, Celexa might accumulate in your body, potentially increasing the likelihood of drug-related side effects. Your doctor may then consider prescribing a lower dose of Celexa, tailoring a treatment plan suitable for you. (Become familiar with Celexa's dosage guidelines through this article.)
—
Pregnancy. Before taking Celexa during pregnancy, it's crucial to inform your doctor as the drug's safety during pregnancy isn't yet established. There's a possibility that Celexa could harm a developing fetus. Converse with your doctor about the optimal treatment for you during pregnancy. (Discover more about Celexa and pregnancy in this article.)
can increase the risk of side effects from pimozide
Breastfeeding. If you're breastfeeding, it's essential to communicate with your doctor before taking Celexa. Its impact on breast milk and infant health isn't clear at this point. Engage in a dialogue with your doctor to determine whether breastfeeding is safe during your Celexa treatment. (Find out about Celexa and breastfeeding in this article.)
Allergic reactions. If you have a history of an allergic reaction to Celexa or its constituents, your doctor may avoid prescribing Celexa for you. (Refer to the "Avoiding Celexa" segment above for additional details.)
Assistance in times of crisis
If you, or someone you know, are contemplating self-harm or suicide, seek help:
- Contact the 988 Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org. Trained counselors are available to listen and provide free, confidential support 24/7.
- Text "HOME" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor for free, confidential support around the clock.
- Not residing in the US? Locate a helpline in your country using Befrienders Worldwide.
- Dial 911 or your local emergency services number if you feel it's safe to do so.
If you're calling on behalf of another person, remain with them until help arrives. Secure any weapons or hazardous items that could potentially cause harm if it's feasible.
If you're not in the same household, keep the conversation going until they receive help.
Celexa and Interaction FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Celexa and potential interactions:
Are there any interactions between Celebra and birth control?
Presently, no known interactions exist between Celexa and birth control as of now. Therefore, it's generally safe to combine Celexa with your birth control. Birth control serves to prevent pregnancy and comes in various forms, namely pills, injections, and vaginal rings.
When your doctor prescribes Celexa in conjunction with other medications to treat depression, remember that birth control may interact with these medications. Engage in a conversation with your doctor or pharmacist to explore these interactions further.
If you have concerns about using birth control alongside Celexa, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Is it safe for me to consume L-Theanine supplements while taking Celexa?
It's likely safe to take L-Theanine along with Celexa as no known interactions have been identified between the two compounds as of now. L-Theanine is a supplement commonly utilized to alleviate anxiety or stress.
If you're interested in incorporating supplements to help cure your stress or anxiety symptoms, consult your doctor or pharmacist first. This way, you can ensure that there are no interactions between Celexa and the supplements.
Preventing Interactions
Implement some precautions to help avoid interactions with Celebra:
- Collaborate closely with your doctor and pharmacist before commencing treatment.
- Share information about your alcohol or cannabis consumption.
- Inform them of other medications, supplements, herbs, and vitamins you're currently taking.
- Fill out a Medication List, which doctors and pharmacists can help you create.
Maintain a vigilant eye on the Celebra label for any colored stickers that might indicate interactions. And pay close attention to the paperwork, often referred to as the medication guide or patient package insert, which may contain interaction information. (If your Celebra doesn't include paperwork, request a printed copy from your pharmacist.) Should you have questions about this information, don't hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Additionally, always adhere to your doctor's prescription instructions when taking Celebra.
Additional Resources
Besides information about interactions, explore more about Celebra:
- Celebrex Overview. Obtain a general overview of Celebra through this article.
- Celebra Side Effects. Learn about the side effects of Celebra in this article. You can also explore the drug's prescribing information.
- Factoids about Depression. Gain insights into your condition by visiting our depression hub.
Reminder: Medical News Today has put in considerable effort to ensure that all information provided is medically accurate, extensive, and current. However, this article should not be utilized as a replacement for the advice and expertise of a licensed medical professional. It's crucial to consult your physician or another healthcare specialist before consuming any medication. The pharmaceutical information presented herein is subject to modification and is not intended to cover all potential uses, dosages, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative side effects. The lack of warnings or other information regarding a particular drug does not imply that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or suitable for all individuals or specific applications.
- To maintain optimal mental health, it's essential to discuss any medications like Celexa with your pharmacist, as interactions with drugs or supplements, such as pimozide or MAOIs, can have severe consequences.
- If you're living with depression and planning to start Celexa, inform your doctor about your use of any mental health medications, such as SSRIs or SNRIs, to reduce the risk of potentially dangerous side effects.
- If you suffer from depression or other mental health issues and are currently taking Celexa, avoid consuming alcohol as it may interact with the medication, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of adverse side effects.