What is Citalopram?  Citalopram is an antidepressant in the class of medications called SSRIs.  SSRIs or Selective Serotonin Reuptake inhibitors block the neurons from taking serotonin back up.  This leaves more serotonin in the central nervous system – which may improve mood.

Citalopram is sold in the US under the brand name Celexa®.

Citalopram Side Effects

Citalopram is usually tolerated better than older antidepressants.

Common side effects include: dry mouth, drowsiness, nausea, trouble sleeping, lose of appetite, impotence and other sexual dysfunction and muscle pain.

Use caution at first, motor and cognitive function may be impaired.

It is best to avoid alcohol while taking citalopram.

Use of aspirin or NSAIDS (like ibuprofen, naproxen) may increase the risk of bleeding in the colon.

If you believe citalopram is causing side effects contact your healthcare provider.

Citalopram Dose

Typically adults are started on 20mg once a day.  If needed, the dose can be increased to 40mg a day.  It does take about four weeks for the full effect of the medication to be noticed.  The maximum dose should not exceed 60mg.

Improving Depression

Antidepressants are a life saver for many people.  Depression is a serious condition and you should always work a healthcare provider to treat and manage depression.

What you are eating maybe be the last thing you’d consider that contributes to mood.  It is interesting to note that most of the serotonin is produced in the digestive tract.  So it makes sense to fix a shortage of serotonin by ensuring your gut is healthy.

I found the The Mood Cure to be a fascinating book.  It explains the importance of diet in relation to mood and well being.  Although, I was never diagnosed with depression or anxiety – I found my mood and outlook on life improved dramatically after improving my diet.

Another important book to read on the connection to mood and the health of your digestive tract is the Gaps Diet found in the book Gut and Psychology Syndrome: Natural Treatment for Autism, Dyspraxia, A.D.D., Dyslexia, A.D.H.D., Depression, Schizophrenia.  She has dramatic improvements in depression and other mental disorders in her practice.  You’ll understand the clear connection to well being and gut health after reading her book.

Remember, do not do this alone.  Work with your Doctor.  You need all the support you can get, you deserve to be happy.  There are many options for help medications, changes in diet or both.