Does Celexa affect potassium levels? (+3 effects)
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 the potential effects of Celexa on potassium levels in the body. We will also discuss the factors influencing potassium levels and the management of potassium levels during Celexa treatment.
Does Celexa affect potassium levels?
Celexa may or may not affect potassium levels in some individuals. This side effect is considered a common one, but it has been reported by some individuals, particularly individuals encountering cardiac disorders such as arrhythmias (1,2).
Celexa, a selective serotonin receptor inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant, works by inhibiting serotonin reuptake in the body. Studies have shown that while Citalopram does not directly influence the balance of electrolytes in the body, it can potentially cause indirect effects that may cause changes in potassium levels (1,3).
However, it is noteworthy to understand that not everyone taking this medication will experience this side effect as it is dependent on patient-specific factors.
What does research suggest?
While there is limited research on the potential impact of Celexa on potassium levels, several studies have suggested that this medication may induce hypokalemia due to associated side effects, including sweating, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) (1,3,7).
Celexa, like other SSRI medications, may rarely induce SIADH as a side effect, potentially affecting the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis) and leading to excessive antidiuretic hormone release, possibly resulting in electrolyte imbalances, such as hyponatremia and hypokalemia (3,4,6).
Moreover, a separate study that investigated the effect of SSRI medications on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) theorized that SSRI antidepressants might decrease renin to aldosterone ratio, leading to excessive potassium excretion in the urine and causing hypokalemia (5).
Conversely, in rare cases, Celexa can cause a life-threatening condition referred to as serotonin syndrome. This side effect of Citalopram can manifest with various symptoms, including muscle spasms and tremors, which are indicative of hyperkalemia (1,7).
Additionally, while the precise mechanism is not fully understood, Celexa’s potential to cause kidney problems may impact electrolyte balance, by causing hyperkalemia.
What are the potential implications of Celexa on potassium levels?
Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including maintaining proper heart and muscle function, nerve impulses and fluid balance. An imbalance in potassium levels can lead to various health issues such as:
Irregular heart rhythms (Cardiac arrhythmia):
Celexa, like other antidepressants, has been associated with a potential risk of inducing irregular heart rhythms. Citalopram-induced potassium imbalance can disrupt the heart’s electrical activity leading to life-threatening irregular heart rates (arrhythmias) (1,8).
Muscle spasms and tremors:
Celexa-induced potassium imbalance may also lead to muscle-related symptoms including spasms and tremors. Low potassium levels can result in involuntary muscle movements, while high potassium levels can lead to muscle weakness and paralysis (1,9).
Celexa’s effects on potassium: risk factors?
Risk factors that may influence Celexa’s impact on potassium levels include (1,3,4):
- Dosage – Higher doses of Celexa are more likely to affect potassium levels.
- Duration of use – Long-term use of Celexa may increase the likelihood of potassium-related issues.
- Drug interactions – Concurrent use of medications like diuretics and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis) can potentially affect potassium levels.
- Pre-existing medical conditions – Underlying health conditions, such as kidney problems, can disrupt potassium balance.
- Diet and lifestyle – Dietary choices, such as a high-potassium diet, and excessive alcohol intake may interact with Celexa and potentially induce potassium imbalance.
What to do if Celexa causes Potassium imbalances?
If you are being considered for treatment with Celexa, your healthcare provider will recommend performing blood and kidney function tests to determine your potassium levels before starting treatment with this medication.
If you experience symptoms of Celexa-induced potassium imbalance, such as muscle weakness, irregular heart rates and tingling sensations, you should immediately contact your healthcare provider. They will assess your specific condition and guide you on how to manage this side effect.
Additionally, your healthcare provider may consider adjusting your medication dosage or recommend transitioning to a different medication if they believe Celexa is contributing to potassium imbalance.
Lifestyle modifications such as staying well-hydrated, and avoiding potassium-rich foods could minimize the risk of experiencing potassium imbalance.
Conclusion
In this article, we have focused on answering the question, “Does Celexa affect potassium levels?” We have also discussed the potential implications of potassium imbalance, what risk factors influence this interaction and what to do if this interaction occurs.
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