Does Celexa cause seizures? (3+ risks)
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 aim to answer the query: “Does Celexa cause seizures?” Furthermore, we will talk about the related research findings, susceptible individuals, what should be done if Celexa causes seizures, and how to ensure safe and effective use of Celexa.
Does Celexa cause seizures?
Celexa may cause seizures in some individuals. However, it is not a common side effect. Seizures are listed as rare adverse effects of Celexa in the prescribing information, but it is important to note that not everyone taking Celexa may experience seizures. Furthermore, in the case of Celexa overdose, the risk of seizures is increased.
Celexa, also known as Citalopram, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant that is FDA-approved to treat depression, especially in adults. Celexa may also be used in the clinical setting to treat panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, alcohol use disorder, and other related disorders (1).
Seizures are sudden movements due to changes in the electrical activity of the brain. These changes may lead to alterations in the patient’s level of consciousness, feelings, memory, or behaviours (2).
What does research suggest about Celexa and seizures?
According to a research study conducted in 2011, a woman was experiencing seizures and reported to an emergency. Upon investigation, it was found that the woman had no history of seizures and she started taking 20mg Celexa 4 days before the occurrence of these symptoms.
The doctors evaluated her overall condition, family and medical history, and no other reason was found except Celexa. Therefore, her doctor discontinued Celexa and her seizures disappeared. This case was the first of its kind indicating that Celexa may cause seizures in recommended doses, but it is quite rare (3).
Another research study indicated that Celexa may cause seizures when taken in higher doses of 400mg for longer periods and in case of overdose. Some patients may also experience seizures while using Celexa along with other antidepressants that may increase the risks of seizures (4). Therefore, you should always inform your healthcare provider if you are using other medications before starting Celexa.
Who is more susceptible to seizures while taking Celexa?
People who may be more susceptible to experiencing seizures while taking Celexa may include:
- Patients taking higher doses of Celexa and for extended periods may have an increased risk of seizures.
- The use of Celexa in combination with other antidepressants may lower the seizure threshold and increase the risk of seizures.
- Individuals with a family history of seizures are more prone to this rare side effect of Celexa.
- Other underlying medical conditions such as electrolyte imbalances may also cause an increased risk of seizures (4).
What to do if Celexa causes seizures?
If Celexa causes seizures, please inform your healthcare provider. They may evaluate your current symptoms, family or medical history, and response to the medication. You may be taking a higher dose of Celexa than you need for your depression symptoms. Your healthcare provider may gradually reduce your Celexa dosage and monitor your response afterwards.
If reducing the dosage of Celexa won’t help you, your doctor may gradually discontinue Celexa and switch you to an alternative antidepressant such as Lexapro, along with an anticonvulsant to control the seizures. You should never discontinue Celexa or any other antidepressant abruptly as sudden discontinuation may lead to withdrawal symptoms (5).
How to ensure safe use of Celexa?
To ensure safe use of Celexa, you must adhere to the following guidelines:
- You should inform your doctor if you are allergic to Celexa or similar antidepressants before prescribing.
- Your doctor must be aware of your family and medical history.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking other medications or supplements along with Celexa.
- Celexa (citalopram) is similar to Lexapro (escitalopram); do not mix these two medicines or take them together.
- Avoid driving while taking Celexa, as it may make you drowsy.
- Avoid alcohol consumption as it may add to the drowsiness caused by Celexa.
- Do not stop using Celexa on your own as it may cause withdrawal symptoms.
In my opinion, Celexa may cause seizures, but it is an uncommon side effect. Celexa may induce seizures if taken at higher doses for extended periods or in case of overdose.
Individuals may become more susceptible to Celexa-induced seizures if they have a family history, underlying health condition, or using concomitant drugs. You should always take Celexa as prescribed by your healthcare provider and never stop taking it without consulting them.
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References
1.-
Sharbaf Shoar N, Fariba KA, Padhy RK. Citalopram. 2023 Nov 7. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29489221. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29489221/
2.-
Huff JS, Murr N. Seizure. 2023 Feb 7. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 28613516. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28613516/
3.-
Iskandar JW, Schmidley JW, Sharma TR. Citalopram-induced seizures in a healthy adult taking an FDA-approved dosage: a case report. Prim Care Companion CNS Disord. 2011;13(3):PCC.10l01113. doi: 10.4088/PCC.10l01113. PMID: 21977370; PMCID: PMC3184562. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3184562/
4.-
Waring WS, Gray JA, Graham A. Predictive factors for generalized seizures after deliberate citalopram overdose. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2008 Dec;66(6):861-5. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2008.03294.x. PMID: 19032728; PMCID: PMC2675776. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2675776/
5.-
Haddad P. The SSRI discontinuation syndrome. J Psychopharmacol. 1998;12(3):305-13. doi: 10.1177/026988119801200311. PMID: 10958258. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10958258/
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