Mental Health Channel
Topics & Medications
Quicklinks
Related Channels
Citalopram Side Effects
Shakiness, nausea, and dry mouth are among the side effects that may develop while taking citalopram. Side effects are, in most cases, minor and do not require medical attention, but you should let your healthcare provider know immediately if you experience hallucinations, chest palpitations, or any signs of an allergic reaction. Other rare reactions (occurring in less than 1 percent of people) include hypothyroidism, diabetes, and congestive heart failure.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with citalopram hydrobromide (Celexa®). However, not everyone who takes the antidepressant will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate the medication well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with citalopram. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
Some citalopram side effects, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior (see Celexa and Suicide)
- Anxiety, agitation, or panic attacks
- Hostility or aggressiveness
- Engaging in unusual or dangerous activities
- Restlessness or inability to sit still
- Extreme elation or feeling of happiness that may switch back and forth with a depressed or sad mood
- Other unusual changes in behavior
- Chest palpitations
- Difficulty sleeping
- Signs of serotonin syndrome (a rare but dangerous problem associated with certain medications), such as:
- Confusion or other mental changes
- A rapid heart rate
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Hallucinations
- Blood pressure changes
- An irregular heart rhythm
- Overactive reflexes
- Fever, sweating, or shivering
- Shakiness
- Agitation
- Seizures
- Coma
- Signs of an allergic reaction, including:
- Unexplained rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Unexplained swelling
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD