Does Celexa cause stunted growth? (+5 factors)
By
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii (PhD)
Author bio
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii, PhD, is a Pharmacist with expertise in Drug Design and Development, Enzymes, Molecular Modelling, and Photodynamic Therapy. She writes and reviews content on these topics.
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii’s Highlights:
- Postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo, emphasizing therapy of neglected diseases using light.
- PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences focusing on drug design and development at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of São Paulo.
- Six months as an international researcher at the Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases (University of California San Diego)
- Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences focusing on drug design and development at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of São Paulo.
- Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Mogi das Cruzes – São Paulo / Brazil
Professional Experience:
2012 – 2018 Project manager at University of São Paulo – Pharmacy Department
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii has worked with computational studies, synthesis, biological evaluation, design, and development of new inhibitor candidates for Chagas Disease and Leishmaniasis.
2017 – 2017 International research fellow at University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases.
She used Virtual Screening (VS) and High-Throughput Screening (HTS) Integration in the Discovery of new drugs against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
2018 – 2019 Faculdades Oswaldo Cruz
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii was a professor in the Faculty of Pharmacy, teaching the subjects of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Drug Development.
2019 – 2021 Researcher in Biochemistry University of São Paulo – Biochemistry Department
She applied Photodynamic Therapy in Leishmaniasis Treatment, mentored undergraduate students in scientific activities, and wrote, executed, translated, and reported scientific projects with funding agencies.
2023-2023 UniPiaget – University Center.
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii was a Biology, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, and Pharmacy professor.
Education:
2018 -2021 Postdoctoral at the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo
2013 -2018 PhD of Science: Drugs and Medicines at Department of Pharmacy at University of São Paulo
2012 -2013 M.Sc. of Sciences: Drugs and Medicines at the Department of Pharmacy at the University of São Paulo
2005-2008 Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Mogi das Cruzes
The leading publications of Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii are:
Vital-Fujii, D.G, Baptista, M.S. (2021). Progress in the photodynamic therapy treatment of Leishmaniasis. Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 54, 1-11.
Gatti, F. M., Gomes, R.A., da Fonseca, A.L., Lima, E.J.C., Vital-Fujii, D.G., Taranto, A.G., Varotti, F.P., Trossini, G.H.G. (2020). Antiplasmodial activity of sulfonylhydrazones: in vitro and in silico approaches. Future medicinal chemistry, 13, 233-250.
Silva, E.J., Bezerra-Souza, A., Passero, L.F., Laurenti, M.D., Ferreira, G.M., Fujii, D.G.V., et al. (2018). Synthesis, leishmanicidal activity, structural descriptors and structure-activity relationship of quinoline derivatives. Future medicinal chemistry, 10, 2069-2085.
Leite, F.H.A., Froes, T.Q., da Silva, S.G., de Souza, E.I.M., Vital-Fuji,i D.G., Trossini, G.H.G., et al. (2017). An integrated approach towards the discovery of novel non-nucleoside Leishmania major pteridine reductase 1 inhibitors. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 132, 322-332.
Vital, D.G., Damasceno, F.S., Rapado, L.N., Silber, A.M., Vilella, F.S., Ferreira, R.S., et al. (2017). Application of bioisosterism in design of the semicarbazone derivatives as cruzain inhibitors: a theoretical and experimental study. Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 35, 1244–1259.
Mello, J. F.R., Gomes, R.A., Vital-Fujii, D.G., Ferreira, G.M., Trossini, G.H.G. (2017). Fragment-based drug discovery as alternative strategy to the drug development for neglected diseases. Chemical Biology & Drug Design, 90, 1067-1078.
Pantaleao, S.Q., Fujii, D.G.V., Maltarollo, V.G., da C. Silva, D., Trossini, G.H.G., Weber, K.C., et al. (2017). The Role of QSAR and Virtual Screening Studies in Type 2 Diabetes Drug Discovery. Medicinal Chemistry, 13, 706-720.
Vital, D., Arribas, M., Trossini, G. (2014). Molecular Modeling and Docking Application to Evaluate Cruzain Inhibitory Activity by Chalcones and Hydrazides. Letters in Drug Design and Discovery, 11, 249-255.
Blau, L., Menegon, R.F., Trossini, G.H.G., Molino, J.V.D., Vital, D.G., Cicarelli, R.M.B., et al. (2013). Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of new aryl thiosemicarbazone as antichagasic candidates. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 67, 142-151.
You can view some of Dr Drielli’s work below and links to her professional profile.
Orcid: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9270-0466
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Drielli-Gomes-Vital-Fujii
Scopus: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=55829534000
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=F9U50AEAAAAJ&hl=pt-BR
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/driellivital
Escavador: https://www.escavador.com/sobre/6101380/drielli-gomes-vital
CDIPD: https://cdipd.org/index.php/about-us/visiting-scientists
In this article, we will discuss whether Celexa causes stunted growth, the factors that can increase the risk of stunted growth while taking Celexa, and what steps should be taken if you experience this unusual side effect.
Does Celexa cause stunted growth?
No, Celexa does not cause stunted growth. While this medication may have side effects, such as dizziness, nausea, or weight changes, there is no established evidence linking it to stunted growth.
Celexa is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders.
While it is generally well-tolerated, the occurrence of side effects can differ from one person to another. It’s important to keep in mind that an individual’s reaction to medication is distinct (1).
Stunted growth typically refers to a significant and permanent impairment in a person’s physical growth, particularly in height.
It typically refers to a situation where an individual does not reach the expected height or size for their age and gender. It is not a known side effect of Celexa based on available clinical data and research (2).
What does research suggest?
Celexa (citalopram) has a favorable adverse effect profile, characterized by its excellent tolerability. This makes it an excellent option, especially for individuals who may not tolerate the side effects commonly associated with other antidepressants (TCAs) (3).
There is currently no established evidence linking Celexa to stunted growth. This suggests that Celexa is not commonly associated with such an effect based on available research and clinical data.
However, individual responses to medication can vary, and it’s essential for individuals taking Celexa or considering it as a treatment option to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with their healthcare providers.
This communication can help address specific health needs and ensure the most appropriate treatment choices.
What factors can increase the risk of stunted growth?
Stunted growth is not a common side effect associated with Celexa. However, there are some general factors that can contribute to stunted growth in individuals, but these factors may not necessarily be linked to Celexa use. These factors include:
Chronic Health Conditions: Certain chronic health conditions, if left untreated, can potentially affect growth. Children and adolescents who have various chronic inflammatory, autoimmune, and neoplastic diseases often face growth retardation. These conditions are not usually associated with Celexa use (4).
Medication history: Individuals dealing with different health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, organ transplants, and renal failure, are at an elevated risk of experiencing growth failure, attributable to both their underlying medical conditions and the administration of glucocorticoids (4).
Nutritional Deficiency: Inadequate nutrition, particularly during critical growth periods, can lead to stunted growth. For example, a deficiency of zinc may lead to stunted growth (5).
Genetics: Genetic factors play a significant role in determining an individual’s height. If stunted growth is common within a family, it may be due to genetic inheritance.
Hormonal Imbalance: Hormonal imbalances can affect growth. For example, thyroid disorders or growth hormone imbalances can impact growth patterns.
What to do if stunted growth occurs while taking Celexa?
If you suspect that stunted growth is occurring while taking Celexa, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns. They will assess your overall health and medical history to determine if stunted growth is indeed occurring and if it might be related to Celexa use.
Your healthcare provider will review your current medications, including Celexa, to check if any of them could be contributing to this side effect. They may consider adjusting the dosage, switching to an alternative medication, or addressing any potential underlying causes.
Expert recommendations
Ensure that you are maintaining a balanced diet with proper nutrition to support healthy growth. Make lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity, to promote overall well-being.
It’s important to note that stunted growth is not a common side effect of Celexa. If you or someone you know is taking Celexa and has concerns about its potential effects on growth or any other aspect of health, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.
They can offer personalized guidance, consider individual medical history, and address any specific concerns to ensure the best possible treatment outcome.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no substantial evidence to suggest that Celexa causes stunted growth. While it’s important to acknowledge the potential side effects associated with any medication, stunted growth does not appear to be a common or well-documented concern with Celexa use.
However, it’s vital to remember that individual responses to medication can vary, and if such a side effect is a concern, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action.
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References
1.-
Bezchlibnyk-Butler K, Aleksic I, Kennedy SH. Citalopram–a review of pharmacological and clinical effects. J Psychiatry Neurosci. 2000 May;25(3):241-54. PMID: 10863884; PMCID: PMC1407724. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1407724/
2.-
Lewit EM, Kerrebrock N. Population-based growth stunting. Future Child. 1997 Summer-Fall;7(2):149-56. PMID: 9299843. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9299843/
3.-
Parker NG, Brown CS. Citalopram in the treatment of depression. Ann Pharmacother. 2000 Jun;34(6):761-71. doi: 10.1345/aph.19137. PMID: 10860138. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10860138/
4.-
Turkel S, Pao M. Late consequences of chronic pediatric illness. Psychiatr Clin North Am. 2007 Dec;30(4):819-35. doi: 10.1016/j.psc.2007.07.009. PMID: 17938047; PMCID: PMC2169505.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2169505/
5.-
Siklar Z, Tuna C, Dallar Y, Tanyer G. Zinc deficiency: a contributing factor of short stature in growth hormone deficient children. J Trop Pediatr. 2003 Jun;49(3):187-8. doi: 10.1093/tropej/49.3.187. PMID: 12848213. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12848213/
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