Can Celexa and Valium be taken together? (+3 possibilities)

In this article, we will be discussing the basic working mechanisms of both Valium and Celexa. We will dig deeper into the possibilities of taking these two drugs concurrently. 

Can Celexa and Valium be taken together?

Yes, Celexa and Valium can be taken together. These drugs are usually prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and depression. This combination of drugs is used in the treatment of such co-morbid conditions. 

Taking these medications concurrently may result in some synergistic side effects for which immediate medical intervention must be required. 

Clinical benefits of taking Celexa and Valium 

Celexa and Valium can be prescribed together if you are suffering from comorbid conditions including depression and anxiety.

Celexa is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor prescribed for treating depression and related conditions. Whereas, Valium is a benzodiazepine suitable for treating anxiety and muscle spasms (1). 

Valium is initially used for improving and relieving anxiety and mood disorders. While Celexa is prescribed to treat depression by selectively uptaking the levels of serotonin in the brain.  

However, taking these two drugs concomitantly has given much more positive outcomes than taking Celexa alone for the treatment of depression. The quality of drug efficacy was improved with combined results (2). 

Celexa and Valium are prescribed together mostly for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) which is characterized by depressive mood, fatigue, appetite changes, sleep disturbance, and suicidal thoughts (2).

A combination of Valium and Celexa for treating MDD has been reported as a beneficial regimen. These drugs have resulted in improved clinical outcomes and drug efficacy (2).  

Potential risks of taking Celexa and Valium 

Concomitant use of Valium and Celexa may result in prolonged CNS and respiratory depression. Proper monitoring and cautious treatment of dosage are required while initiating this treatment (3). 

The patients taking these drugs together should be extra cautious with performing activities requiring mental alertness and motor activities due to the excessive depressive episode after concomitant use of Valium and Celexa (3). 

Drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, and excessive sleep are common side effects of using these drugs concurrently. If these side effects are increased, immediately report to your healthcare provider. 

Stopping the use of this drug regimen may result in withdrawal symptoms. Valium is usually associated with causing withdrawal side effects upon rapidly discontinuing the use of it. 

If you want to discontinue these drugs, contact your doctor to taper the drug dosage or suggest an alternative treatment regimen without discontinuing these drugs immediately.

Common drug interactions of using Celexa and Valium 

The use of alcohol along with taking these drugs may result in severe drowsiness and dizziness. Alcohol consumption may also affect the normal thinking and cognitive abilities of the patient. Therefore, alcohol use must be avoided at all costs while taking these drugs. 

Grapefruit has been reported to have serious interactions with Valium specifically. While taking this drug regimen, mention the use of grapefruit dietary products in your diet with your doctor for an informed decision as it may cause serious adverse effects. 

Common management strategies for using Celexa and Valium 

Management of side effects after initiating the treatment is extremely necessary. Concomitant use of these drugs may cause adverse effects which might need careful monitoring. 

Consult your doctor for any adverse events specifically related to excessive drowsiness and dizziness. Regular follow-ups must be scheduled with your doctor to check any reported side effects. 

Drug dosage tapering is highly recommended. Immediate increase or decrease in dose may cause adverse events or withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, contact with a healthcare prescriber is utterly important. 

Conclusion

We have discussed the clinical manifestations of taking Valium and Celexa in combination. This article briefly explains the benefits and shortcomings of using these drugs concurrently and the consequences of dropping the treatment regimen. 

References