Does Celexa cause muscle spasms? (3+ factors)
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 muscle spasms associated with Celexa (Citalopram) use. We will also discuss the factors contributing to Celexa-induced muscle spasms and what you should do if this side effect occurs.
Does Celexa cause muscle spasms?
Yes, Celexa (Citalopram) does cause muscle spasms but the incidence is low.
Celexa, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, is an antidepressant used in the treatment of many psychiatric conditions like depression and anxiety (1).
The side effect of muscle spasms though not very common as a side effect, is among the few unexpected side effects of Celexa. Other less common side effects of Celexa include bloating, tinnitus, jaw clenching etc.
Side effects like muscle spasms are rare and may subside after a few days of your treatment with Celexa as your body gets used to the medication.
What does research suggest?
There are limited studies indicating the effect of Citalopram on muscles.
One study indicated the potential of Citalopram to trigger acute dystonia (involuntary muscle spasms and contractions). Clinicians should be aware of this possibility as early recognition is crucial for preventing serious complications (2).
Despite limited reports, clinicians should still remain vigilant about the potential for acute dystonia associated with Citalopram (2).
Always remember every individual has a different response to medications. Although muscle spasms may disappear once your body adjusts to the medication, if it does not happen then reach out to your healthcare provider.
Like Citalopram, some other antidepressants also produce this side effect rarely like Wellbutrin and Sertraline.
What factors can contribute to Celexa-induced muscle spasms?
Not everyone will experience muscle spasms while on Celexa. However, some risk factors will increase the likelihood of experiencing this side effect. These include:
High doses: Taking a higher-than-recommended dose of Citalopram may elevate the risk of experiencing muscle spasms.
Underlying conditions: Muscle-related health issues and previous muscle injuries may make an individual more prone to experience muscle spasms.
Age: Older adults especially women are more likely to be affected by this side effect.
Duration of treatment: Taking Citalopram for a long time may increase the risk of less common side effects including muscle spasms.
It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider when considering Citalopram or experiencing side effects to ensure proper dosing, monitoring and potential adjustments to minimize the risk of this side effect.
Should you be concerned about Celexa-induced muscle spasms?
Although muscle spasms can be uncomfortable, they are not typically considered to be a severe side effect of Citalopram (3). However, if you are experiencing severe muscle spasms or their frequency is concerning it is important to seek medical attention.
This is because they could be a sign of an underlying medical issue or the fact that Citalopram is not the right medication for you.
How to manage muscle spasms when taking Citalopram?
Here are some ways you can manage the spasms while taking Citalopram:
Hydration: Dehydration can make muscle spasms worse, so it is important to keep yourself adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of water and eating moist food.
Stretching: Gentle stretching exercises can help to reduce muscle tension and the frequency of muscle spasms. Engage yourself in stress reduction exercises like yoga or meditation.
Heat and cold therapy: Apply heat and cold packs to the affected area. This can provide relief from muscle spasms.
Medication adjustment: If this side effect becomes severe, your healthcare provider may adjust the dose of Citalopram or shift to another antidepressant that may not have an undesirable side effect like muscle spasms.
Consulting a physical therapist: If the severity of muscle spasms is unbearable, it may require consultation with a physical therapist for targeted treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Citalopram, like some other antidepressants, may rarely cause muscle spasms as a side effect. While it is not a common side effect, individuals taking Citalopram should be aware of the potential for muscle spasms and consult with their healthcare provider if they experience such symptoms for proper evaluation and management.
Was this helpful?
References
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
