Celexa is a prescription drug that is sometimes used to treat bipolar disorder in adults. It is never used as a stand-alone medication and is typically part of a cocktail of drugs prescribed to control bipolar disorder. The drug works by balancing the levels of serotonin (one of several chemicals in the brain used to send messages from one nerve cell to another). In addition to reducing the symptoms of bipolar disorder, Celexa has also been shown to reduce the chances of a relapse.
SSRIs
Celexa is in the drug class known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), drugs that regulate the way serotonin is used in the brain. Messages travel down neurons (nerve cells) and cause the cell to release serotonin. Serotonin enters the space between the nerve cells and it activates receptors located on the second cell to allow the message to continue to travel. The first cell reabsorbs leftover serotonin in a process known as "reuptake."
In most people, reuptake occurs seamlessly but unbalanced levels of serotonin in some people cause depression and can lead to bipolar disorder. Celexa works by blocking the reuptake so there is more serotonin in the space between the nerve cells to make it activate the receptors on the next neuron and help the message to continue to travel efficiently.
Side Effects
There are many side effects possible from Celexa but it is generally well tolerated. When they do occur they are typically minor and can be easily treated. It has been well studied against placebo to see what side effects occur, how often and how they compare to the placebo group. The most common side effects of Celexa include:
Nausea
Dry mouth
Drowsiness
Insomnia
Increased sweating
Tremor
Diarrhea
Ejaculation problems
Other common side effects of Celexa (occurring in 2% to 5% of people) include:
Upper respiratory tract infections
Runny/irritated nose or sinus infections
Fatigue
Indigestion or heartburn
Vomiting
Anxiety or agitation
Loss of appetite
Erectile dysfunction/Impotence
Painful menstrual cramps
Abdominal pain
Fever
Muscle or joint pain
Decreased sex drive
Yawning
Celexa Overdose
It is possible to overdose on Celexa just like any other medication. Even though doses of Celexa up to 2,000 mg may not result in death when taken alone, if it is taken with other medications or alcohol it can be fatal.
The most common Celexa overdose symptoms include:
Dizziness
Sweating
Nausea and vomiting
Tremor
Drowsiness
Fast heartbeat
Other Celexa overdose symptoms may include, but are not limited to:
Memory loss
Confusion
Seizures
Trouble breathing
Blue skin
Muscle pain
Irregular heartbeat
Coma
Death
Celexa Withdrawal
Celexa (just as other SSRIs) is known to cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop treatment without decreasing the dosage. Celexa withdrawal symptoms include:
Agitation
Anxiety
Burning or tingling
Confusion
Dizziness
Fatigue
Headache
Insomnia
Irritability
Withdrawal symptoms tend to improve over time without treatment. However, if the symptoms are severe, you should contact your doctor immediately for remedial action.
