Coming off of Citalopram 10mg ?

Question

I've been on 10 mg of Citalopram a day for over 5 years, I am now ready to come off the tablets, after counseling and dealing with the issues.

As discussed with my doctor I am taking one every other day to wean myself off. I am just wondering what to expect with regards to side effects and how I might feel. I have gained alot of weight while being on them as they boosted my appetite and along with pregnancy I have a lot of weight to lose. Will that happen quite quickly after coming off them. Many Thanks

Answer 1

You could have some of the side effects. Some are nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

Answer 2

Celexa (citalopram) typically doesn't have a very severe withdrawal syndrome. Of course, everyone's body chemistry is different, and you may have more or less withdrawal symptoms than the average person. You may find your depression or anxiety to be a bit worse for a few days after decreasing the dose. Other common SSRI discontinuation symptoms include "brain zaps", which is a feeling like electricity going through your body. You may also experience flu-like symptoms, headaches, nightmares, insomnia, agitation, etc. You also might not. I, personally, have never experienced severe withdrawal from any SSRI except Paxil, and that was over in just a few days.

When you're done breastfeeding, if you decide to breastfeed, you might want to try Wellbutrin (bupropion) if you need an anti-depressant. It's the anti-depressant most likely to help you lose weight, assuming it works for your depression. If you're going med-free, good luck and congrats! And congratulations on the new baby as well. Good luck!

Answer 3

I used to take Celexa also. It may take a few weeks to wean off. You DO NOT want the bad side effects from Celexa withdrawal.

Do exactly what your Dr. says.

Good luck!