What are citalopram (Celexa) side effects?

Some of the common side effects of citalopram are listed below. Tell your doctor if these adverse effects are severe or if you have new or worsening symptoms.

• Gastrointestinal symptoms like heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
• Dry mouth
• Sleep problems
• Sweating
• Uncontrolled shaking
• Decreased appetite, weight loss
• Tiredness, weakness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Frequent urination
• Changes in sex drive or sexual function
• Heavy menstrual periods

Citalopram can cause serious symptoms and adverse effects. Tell your doctor right away if you experience symptoms such as:

•  Chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness

• Fainting

• Fast or irregular heartbeat

• Hallucinations

• Confusion, problems with thinking

• Fever

• Excessive sweating

• Loss of coordination, unsteadiness

• Muscle stiffness or twitching

• Rash, hives, itching, blisters

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

• Swelling of the face, hands, feet

• Unusual bruising or bleeding

• Seizures

The above list may not include all the potential side effects of citalopram. Talk to your doctor if you have severe side effects or the side effects do not improve over time. You can also report unusual side effects to the Food and Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088. 

Citalopram overdose: Call your doctor or the local poison control center immediately in case of a known or suspected overdose. If the person can’t be awakened, has had a seizure, or has trouble breathing, call 911. Symptoms of citalopram overdose may include drowsiness, dizziness, loss of consciousness or coma, uncontrolled shaking, seizures, confusion, memory problems, fast or irregular heartbeat, fast breathing, nausea, vomiting, sweating, bluish color around the mouth or fingernails, muscle pain, and dark-colored urine.

NOTE: Citalopram is a prescription drug that is the property of the respective owners and is intended for their use only. Never share your prescription medication with others or use someone else’s citalopram.

 Source: FDA