Can Celexa cause high cholesterol? (3+ risk groups)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
This article will answer the question, “Can Celexa cause high cholesterol?”. We will also discuss the scientific evidence and risk factors associated with Celexa-induced high cholesterol levels.
Can Celexa cause high cholesterol?
Yes, Celexa can cause high cholesterol in some people, although it’s not officially listed as a side effect.
Celexa (Citalopram) is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI), commonly used to treat conditions like Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and depression.
It’s important to note that high cholesterol and lipid issues have been reported with many antidepressants, including SSRIs. However, not everyone taking Citalopram will necessarily experience high cholesterol.
What does research suggest?
Several research studies indicate a link between high cholesterol and Celexa use. A study found that after a 6-month Citalopram treatment, there was an increase in LDL cholesterol levels among patients with panic disorder.
LDL cholesterol is also called “bad cholesterol” since high levels can contribute to heart disease. So, this finding suggests that Citalopram might have some influence on heart health, particularly for those with panic disorder. (1)
In another study involving patients with generalised anxiety disorder, Citalopram was found to impact triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. Total cholesterol is a sum of LDL and HDL cholesterol. An increase in total cholesterol could be an indication of potential cardiovascular risks. (2)
Combining clinical and register-based data, one study showed that antidepressants such as SSRIs affect LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol levels in patients with major depressive disorder. This reinforces the idea that various antidepressants can influence cholesterol levels. (3)
A review article highlighted that not only Citalopram but also other SSRIs used to treat major depression, such as sertraline and paroxetine, can negatively affect lipid profiles. This implies that lipid abnormalities are often reported with SSRI use. (4)
Thus, research evidence suggests that Citalopram can impact lipid profiles, especially by increasing LDL cholesterol.
Who is more susceptible to Celexa-induced high cholesterol?
Not everyone using Celexa faces high cholesterol. Some people are more susceptible to this side effect, such as;
People with metabolic syndrome
People with metabolic syndrome, which often includes factors like obesity, insulin resistance, and high blood pressure, may be at a higher risk.
Metabolic syndrome itself is associated with an increased likelihood of abnormal lipid profiles, and when combined with Citalopram, the risk could be further elevated. (2)
People with abnormal lipid profiles
People who already have abnormal lipid profiles before starting Citalopram treatment could be more susceptible. Citalopram might exacerbate existing lipid issues, leading to a higher risk of high cholesterol.
People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD itself may increase the risk of metabolic syndrome. The chronic stress associated with GAD can lead to unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, and weight gain, all contributing to metabolic syndrome.
Therefore, those with GAD may face an elevated risk of Celexa-induced high cholesterol, especially if they already have metabolic syndrome. (2)
Chronic use and high doses of Celexa
Long-term, high-dose usage of Celexa may increase the likelihood of experiencing high cholesterol. The cumulative impact of the medication over an extended period could result in adverse effects including abnormalities in lipid profiles.
What to do if Celexa affects your cholesterol levels?
If you find that Celexa is affecting your cholesterol levels, make sure to follow these steps.
Consult your doctor
If you notice that Celexa is leading to elevated cholesterol levels, reach out to your doctor for the best advice.
They can assess your situation and consider options such as adjusting the medication dosage, switching to an alternative antidepressant, or prescribing statins or lipid-lowering medications.
Make lifestyle modifications
Making healthy lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing cholesterol levels. This includes maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise. Lifestyle changes can complement medical interventions and improve overall cardiovascular health
Reducing saturated and trans fats, as well as processed sugars, can help maintain healthier cholesterol levels. Add vegetables, fruits and whole grains to your diet.
Regularly monitor lipid profiles
Keeping a vigilant eye on your lipid profile is essential. Regular monitoring helps you and your healthcare provider track changes and adjust the treatment plan as needed. This helps in early detection and reduces the potential risks associated with elevated cholesterol levels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Celexa does have the potential to lead to high cholesterol despite not being officially listed as a side effect. Elevated cholesterol and lipid irregularities have been documented about many antidepressants, including SSRIs.
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