- The side effects of Celexa may include weight changes, urination frequency changes, drowsiness, problems sleeping such as insomnia, mild nausea, upset stomach, flatulence, dry or watery mouth, yawning, impotence, decreased libido, cold symptoms such as a sore throat, sneezing and a stuffy nose. If these side effects are troublesome, ask your doctor for advice.
- In addition to the more mild side effects, Celexa may result in more serious side effects. If you experience a serious side effect, stop taking Celexa and call your doctor immediately. These effects include rigid muscles, high fever, sweating, irregular heartbeat, tremors, overactive reflexes, loss of coordination, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, feeling unsteady, trouble concentrating, problems with your memory, severe headache, confusion, hallucinations, seizure, fainting, shallow breathing or a cessation of breathing. You may also experience hyperactivity, thoughts of suicide or of hurting yourself, panic attacks, mood changes, anxiety, impulsive behavior, aggression, hostility, depression and restlessness.
- It is possible to overdose on Celexa. Go to the emergency room immediately if you think you've overdosed on this medication. Signs of an overdose include seizures, coma, rapid heartbeat, sweating, dizziness and severe nausea or vomiting.
- Disclose all of your medications to your doctor to prevent any possible drug interactions. This includes prescription and nonprescription drugs, as well as over-the-counter supplements. Drugs that may interact with Celexa include lithium, carbamazepine, cimetidine, warfarin or other blood thinner, almotriptan or any other antidepressants. You should also ask your doctor before taking any medications, prescription or otherwise, intended for pain, arthritis, swelling or fever. These medications include naproxen, ibuprofen, other aspirin, etodolac, piroxicam and nabumetone. In addition, do not consume alcohol while taking Celexa, as this may increase the possible side effects. You should also avoid any other medications that may make you sleepy, such as cold medications, sleeping pills, allergy medicine, narcotic pain medication and muscle relaxants.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions. If you have certain medical conditions, you may need an adjusted dose or special tests to determine if you can safely take Celexa. These conditions include liver disease, epilepsy or other seizure disorder, bipolar disorder or a history of suicidal thoughts or drug addiction. Do not use Celexa while you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It can cause birth defects in an unborn fetus and can harm a nursing child.
