Does Celexa cause bloating? (5+ tips)
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 (Citalopram) causes bloating. We will also discuss some research studies and how to manage bloating while taking Celexa.
Does Celexa cause bloating?
Yes, Celexa can cause bloating. It is listed as a common side effect of Celexa.
Celexa, a brand for Citalopram, is an antidepressant used to treat various mental health conditions like depression and anxiety (1).
Bloating is a mild side effect of Celexa which can lead to severe abdominal pain. While not everyone experiences this side effect, some individuals may notice abdominal discomfort, bloating or changes in bowel habits when taking Celexa.
If you experience persistent or severe bloating while taking Celexa, it is essential to discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can assess your specific situation, provide guidance, and consider potential adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.
What does research suggest?
Research studies indicate that Celexa may cause gastrointestinal disturbances which may increase your stomach gases (2). This can cause bloating and make you feel heavy. Other antidepressants like Wellbutrin also show this side effect.
Celexa-induced bloating is not persistent and is more common in people who are new to Citalopram or antidepressants in general. Celexa can also cause other gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
If your bloating is making it difficult for you to eat normally or if you feel abdominal pain, reach out to your healthcare provider and discuss your side effects.
How to get rid of Citalopram-induced bloating?
If you are experiencing bloating as a side effect of Celexa, consider these steps to alleviate and reduce it (3):
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate bloating and support overall digestive health.
Dietary modifications:
- Fibre– Incorporate more fibre-rich foods into your diet gradually, as they can aid in digestion. However, avoid excess fibre as it can sometimes worsen bloating.
- Eating habits– Big meals can cause bloating. To avoid this, try taking smaller but more frequent meals to keep the digestive system moving and keep your eating slow to avoid air entering the digestive system.
- Chew food thoroughly– Ensure you chew your food thoroughly to aid digestion and minimize the swallowing of excess air, which can contribute to bloating.
Probiotics: Consider consuming probiotic-rich food like yoghurt. Probiotics may help promote a healthy gut and alleviate bloating for some people.
Over-the-counter medications: Some OTC medications like Simethicone can help relieve gas and bloating. Consult your healthcare provider before using them.
Physical activities: Physical exercise like yoga and regular exercise can keep the bowel moving regularly and prevent bloating.
Monitor symptoms: Keep a food diary to track which foods or situations worsen your bloating. This can help you identify triggers and make necessary dietary adjustments.
Stress management: Stress can exacerbate digestive issues. Consider relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation to manage stress.
When to consult your healthcare provider?
If bloating does not disappear even after several weeks of the treatment with Citalopram, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They may adjust your medication dosage, consider alternative treatments, or provide additional guidance.
It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider while managing any medication-related side effects like bloating. They can offer personalized advice and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bloating is a potential side effect associated with Celexa and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). While not everyone experiences this side effect, some individuals may notice abdominal discomfort and bloating while taking Celexa. It is essential to discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your specific situation consider potential adjustments to your treatment plan and ensure your well-being during the course of treatment.
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References
2.-
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/citalopram
3.-
Foley A, Burgell R, Barrett JS, Gibson PR. Management Strategies for Abdominal Bloating and Distension. Gastroenterol Hepatol (N Y). 2014 Sep;10(9):561-71. PMID: 27551250; PMCID: PMC4991532.Foley A, Burgell R, Barrett JS, Gibson PR. Management Strategies for Abdominal Bloating and Distension. Gastroenterol Hepatol (N Y). 2014 Sep;10(9):561-71. PMID: 27551250; PMCID: PMC4991532.
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