Does Celexa affect blood pressure? (+3 options)
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
In this article, we will discuss whether Celexa can affect blood pressure. We will delve further into research findings on this topic and explore factors that can influence blood pressure while taking Celexa.
Does Celexa affect blood pressure?
Celexa (Citalopram), may or may not affect blood pressure in some individuals. Studies examining the relationship between Celexa and blood pressure have produced mixed results. However, it is important to understand that individuals exhibit varying responses to medications, and not everyone may experience changes in blood pressure while taking this medication.
Changes in blood pressure associated with Celexa are generally modest and are typically not considered clinically significant. However, the extent of these changes is dependent on the dose and frequency of dose administration of this medication (1,4).
Some studies also suggest that underlying health conditions may modify the effects of Celexa in some individuals. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider if you notice any changes in blood pressure while taking this medication.
What does research suggest?
Research suggests that Celexa raises serotonin levels in the body, potentially affecting blood pressure. Serotonin regulates blood pressure by binding to 5HT1 receptors, acting as a sympatholytic to inhibit norepinephrine release, resulting in decreased cardiac output and lower blood pressure (4,5,8).
However, serotonin can also bind to 5HT4 receptors increasing, increasing heart rate and blood pressure (4,5).
A study on an 87-year-old patient who took 20mg of Citalopram showed an acute increase in blood pressure in geriatric individuals with a history of hypertension (2). Conversely, other studies associate Citalopram with decreased blood pressure and heart rate (2,3,4,7).
Newer research suggests that abrupt withdrawal of Citalopram could hyperactivate noradrenergic neurons, potentially causing hypertension in some individuals (8).
Additionally, Citalopram is associated with dehydration which may lead to hypertension in some individuals.
What factors can influence blood pressure while taking Celexa?
As earlier mentioned, various factors can influence how Celexa affects your blood pressure, including (2,3,5):
Individual responses
The way Celexa affects each individual’s body may vary. Changes in blood pressure may occur in some people, while others may experience any significant effects. These variations could be influenced by an individual’s genetics and sensitivity to medications.
Dosage and duration of use
The prescribed dosage of Celexa can impact its effect on blood pressure. Higher doses of this medication have a higher potential to cause blood pressure changes. Your healthcare provider should determine the appropriate dosage based on your specific condition and needs.
Additionally, Long-term use of this medication predisposes an individual to changes in blood pressure.
Concurrent medications and pre-existing health conditions
The combination of Celexa with other medications, such as antihypertensive medications, can affect blood pressure levels. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you’re taking to ensure they are aware of potential interactions.
Moreover, underlying medical conditions, such as hypertension or cardiovascular problems, may influence blood pressure while taking Celexa. It is essential to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider.
What to do if your blood pressure fluctuates when taking Celexa?
If you observe fluctuations in your blood pressure while taking Celexa, you should take the following steps:
You should regularly monitor and record your blood pressure to help you keep track of any changes while using this medication. Providing this information to your healthcare provider is valuable in determining the appropriate course of action.
Additionally, you should reach out to your doctor as soon as possible if you notice fluctuations in your blood pressure while taking this medication. They will perform a comprehensive assessment of your situation and provide appropriate guidance.
If your healthcare provider suspects that Celexa is responsible for changes in your blood pressure, they may recommend adjustments to your medication dosage or prescribe additional medications to help manage your blood pressure.
Furthermore, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, engaging in regular physical activity, and limiting alcohol consumption, can support overall blood pressure management.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed the potential link between Celexa and blood pressure fluctuations. Additionally, we have also discussed factors that can influence blood pressure while taking Celexa and what to do if you experience changes in blood pressure while taking this medication.
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References
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Watts SW, Morrison SF, Davis RP, Barman SM. Serotonin and Blood Pressure Regulation. Pharmacological Reviews [Internet]. 2012 Apr 1 [cited 2023 Oct 13];64(2):359–88. Available from: https://pharmrev.aspetjournals.org/content/64/2/359.short
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