Does Celexa And Caffeine Interact? (3+ Effects)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 02/01/2024 | Next review date: 02/01/2026

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

Ivan Kahwa

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In this article, we will discuss potential interactions between Celexa (Citalopram) and caffeine. We will also discuss what side effects one may experience by combining these two substances, and how to manage these side effects.

Does Celexa and caffeine interact?

Celexa and caffeine may interact. There can be a mild interaction between Celexa and caffeine. However, this interaction is dose-dependent. Moderate caffeine consumption while taking Celexa is not a matter of concern, but excessive intake can cause disturbing side effects.

Celexa, a brand for Citalopram, is an antidepressant used to treat certain mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety (1)

Caffeine, on the other hand, is a central nervous system CNS stimulant that is commonly consumed through coffee, and other caffeine-containing products to decrease fatigue and increase alertness (2).

Both Celexa and caffeine exert their effects by altering brain chemistry.

Potential side effects of taking Celexa and caffeine together

There are some potential side effects of caffeine and Celexa when used together. These side effects only exist at higher doses. When taken together caffeine can worsen the pre-existing side effects of Celexa.

Insomnia

Celexa is associated with sleep disturbances, and if you consume caffeine later in the day, it might cause sleep issues worse and increase the insomnia induced by Celexa. Both caffeine and Celexa can sum up to disturb your sleep, leading to insomnia.

Gastrointestinal disturbances

Caffeine tends to increase intestinal motility which may cause diarrhoea, acid reflux, heartburn and nausea. Celexa, on the other hand, is also associated with similar side effects such as acid reflux and heartburn, and it is not uncommon for it to cause diarrhoea as well.

So when taken together, there is a possibility that these gastrointestinal side effects could be amplified.

Serotonin syndrome

Although rare, consumption of both caffeine and Celexa, when not done in moderation, can lead to serotonin syndrome. This is due to both caffeine and Celexa affecting serotonin levels, which may be life-threatening. Serotonin syndrome is characterized by increased heart rate, confusion, agitation, headache, and dizziness (3).

Cardiac issues

The use of caffeine in larger amounts can cause unpleasant cardiac symptoms such as heart palpitations, especially in patients with underlying cardiac conditions. Celexa is also associated with such symptoms. Combined use of both substances can intensify these cardiac issues (4,5).

Worsening anxiety

Caffeine overdose is frequently seen in coffee addicts, and when combined with Celexa, it can exacerbate your depression or anxiety. It is crucial to have an open discussion with your healthcare provider about such concerns and inquire about the safe limit of caffeine consumption when taking an antidepressant (6).

In most cases, consuming caffeine in moderate amounts while on Celexa, will not cause significant issues. So, it’s all about balance. taking a reasonable amount of caffeine is usually fine, but going way beyond that may become bothersome.

How to consume caffeine safely while taking Celexa?

You can safely consume coffee and other caffeinated products while taking Celexa by adjusting the time at which you take both. Finding the right balance can prevent potential interactions and ensure both substances work effectively.

Do not take the two substances together. Taking them a few hours apart can help minimize the potential for stomach discomfort, as taking them together might lead to an upset stomach for some people.

The amount of caffeine consumed can also make a difference. Taking caffeine in moderate amounts while on Celexa can prevent interaction’s associated anxiety and insomnia. Taking a moderate amount of caffeine while on Celexa not only prevents potential interactions but also ensures you are not overloading your system with caffeine, which could lead to its own set of issues.

Always remember every human body reacts differently when it is exposed to medications. So it is always advisable to observe how your body reacts when you are taking caffeine during your treatment with Celexa.

If you have concerns about caffeine and Celexa interactions or experience side effects, it is good to discuss them with your healthcare provider, who can provide guidance on managing caffeine consumption and monitor your response to both substances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there can be a mild interaction between Celexa and caffeine. While not a major concern, it’s advisable to be mindful of your caffeine intake while taking Celexa, as it may enhance the stimulating effects of caffeine, potentially leading to discomfort or increased side effects.

To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, it is best to discuss caffeine consumption with your healthcare provider when using Celexa.