Can you take Aricept and Celexa together? (+ 3 risks)

In this article, we will discuss whether you can take Aricept and Celexa together. We will also explore research studies demonstrating the benefits or side effects of combining these medications. Additionally, we will discuss management tips for addressing potential side effects of Aricept and Celexa.

Can you take Aricept and Celexa together?

You can take Celexa and Aricept together. However, the decision to take these medications together should be made under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional. Both these medications can have central nervous system effects, and combining them may result in additive effects, potentially affecting cognitive function and other aspects of well-being.

Celexa, also known by its generic name citalopram, is an antidepressant commonly prescribed to alleviate symptoms of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and certain anxiety disorders by affecting neurotransmitter levels in the brain (1). On the other hand, Aricept, the brand name for donepezil, is a medication frequently used in the management of Alzheimer’s disease (2).

If you are considering or have been prescribed the combination of Aricept and Celexa, discuss any concerns or questions you have with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health situation.

What does research suggest?

The research studies have demonstrated both the benefits and risks of taking Celexa and Aricept together.

On the positive side, Celexa showed efficacy in managing compulsive sexual behavior in an Alzheimer’s patient already on Aricept, resulting in a significant improvement in symptoms after two months (3).

Additionally, another study reported symptom improvement in a diabetic patient with underlying cognitive impairment and depression after a year of combined treatment with Aricept and Celexa.

However, the studies also pointed out potential risks. Specifically, a research study highlighted an increased risk of liver damage associated with taking Celexa and Aricept concurrently (4).

This risk was illustrated by a case in which an individual with bipolar disorder, initially prescribed Celexa for depression and later diagnosed with dementia, experienced elevated liver enzymes when Aricept was introduced to manage dementia. Notably, the liver enzymes returned to normal after discontinuing Aricept (3).

What are the potential risks of taking Aricept with Celexa?

There are certain potential risks associated with combining Celexa and Aricept. However, it’s important to note that individual responses can vary, and not everyone will experience these risks. Here are some potential considerations (1,2):

What are the benefits of combining Aricept and Celexa?

The potential benefits of taking Celexa and Aricept together would depend on the specific medical condition and the decision of a healthcare professional. In some cases, a healthcare provider may consider combining medications to address different aspects of a patient’s health or to manage symptoms that may be present simultaneously.

Some of the potential benefits of taking these medications together may include (1,2):

How to manage the additive side effects of Aricept and Celexa?

Managing the additive side effects of Celexa and Aricept requires careful attention and communication with a healthcare professional. Here are some management tips to consider when addressing potential additive side effects:

• Only make changes to your medication regimen under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and discuss any concerns.
• Periodic liver function tests can help detect potential issues early.
• Healthy lifestyle choices, including diet and exercise, can complement medication management.
• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption, as it may exacerbate side effects.
• Implement measures to prevent falls, as some medications may increase the risk.
• Manage any gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea or vomiting, by taking over-the-counter antiemetic medications.
• Do not stop medications abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Monitor caffeine intake, especially if experiencing insomnia or restlessness.

In my experience

In my experience, healthcare providers do prescribe the combination of Celexa and Aricept in clinical settings for managing depression in Alzheimer’s patients or individuals with cognitive impairment issues. However, the decision to combine these medications is determined by an assessment of the individual’s risk and benefit profile. This combination is only considered when the potential benefits of the treatment significantly outweigh the associated risks.

References