What is Celexa?

Celexa is an antidepressant drug classified under the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs.

Uses

Celexa works by restoring serotonin balance. Serotonin is responsible to treat mood problems.
Celexa being an anti depressant is used to treat mood changes, anxiety and depression.
You might be prescribed Celexa for uses other than those listed above. It may also be given along with other medicines for some other disease too. Contact your doctor or pharmacist about the uses of Celexa.

Warnings

Celexa is not to be taken along with a MAOI. Give your body at least 2 weeks of rest after using an MAOI. And along with that wait for 14 days after stopping the dose of Celexa before using an MAOI.
Regular visits may be scheduled for you for the first 12 weeks of treatment. This is because suicidal thoughts might come to your brain. This condition is common in patients younger than 24 years.
Call your doctor immediately on being affected by side effects. Serious lung problems can occur to new born babies via their mothers if they have used this drug during pregnancy. You might face relapse of depression on stopping the use of this suddenly. If you become pregnant during the course then so not stop using the drug without consultation with your doctor.
Using Celexa with an MAOI can result in fatal reactions. Inform your doctor immediately if you have the following or have a history of them:

• Liver or Kidney diseases;
• History of drug abuse;
• Seizure problems and
• Manic Depression

Your dose might be adjusted or cancelled according to your current situation. You might need some tests before getting a prescription of Celexa.
Celexa passes into breast milk and may harm a baby. Inform your doctor beforehand about nursing a baby.

How should I take Celexa?

Celexa should only be used according to the prescribed way. Do not take Celexa for a longer time than the given course. Celexa is not to be used in bigger amounts than the prescribed amount.
The drug should be taken at the same time each day. Ask your doctor about the timings of the dose.
To ensure the correct amount of dose is taken, measure the liquid drug using a measuring spoon or a marked cup. Do not use a regular spoon for measuring the liquid. You can get a measuring device from your pharmacist.
At least 4 weeks or longer might get you fit. But do not stop the dose without asking your doctor. Sudden side effects may be caused if the patient stops the dose suddenly.

What happens if I overdose?

Get emergency medical help if the patient takes too much of this drug and overdoses.
An over dose is reflected by nausea, vomiting, tremor, sweating, seizures and coma.

Celexa side effects

Get immediate medical help if the patient is facing any allergic reaction like breathing difficulty, rashes and swelling of the face, throat or tongue.
Contact your doctor if the patient has new or worsening following symptoms:

• Mood changes;
• Anxiety;
• Panic attack;
• Trouble in sleeping;
• Agitated mood;
• Hyperactive and
• Suicidal thoughts

Serious side effects include vomiting, nausea, stiff muscles, loss of appetite, headache, memory problems, weakness and confusion.
The patient might face side effects other than those listed here. If any unusual symptom is caused by the use of Celexa then contact your doctor immediately.

Proper storage of Celexa

Celexa is to be stored at room temperature. Room temperature: 68 to 77 Degrees F or 20 to 25o C. It is to be kept in a tightly closed container. Keep Celexa away from sunlight, heat and moisture. Do not place it in bathrooms. Keep Celexa out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information

For more information about Celexa consult your doctor or pharmacist. If your symptoms get worse after using this drug then inform this to your doctor.
Celexa is to be used only for the person it is prescribed for. Do not share your medication.

What happens if I miss a dose?

If the patient misses a dose then take the missed dose as soon as possible. If the scheduled next dose is near then skip the missed dose. Continue the rest of the course as usual. Do not take any other medicine to cover up the missed dose.