Does Celexa Elevate Liver Enzymes? (5+ symptoms)
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) elevates liver enzymes. We will also explore research studies and methods for preventing liver damage while taking Celexa.
Does Celexa Elevate Liver Enzymes?
Yes, Celexa can, in rare cases, lead to liver damage by increasing the level of certain liver enzymes. Liver enzymes are important indicators of the health and function of the liver. Abnormal levels of these enzymes can indicate liver damage, inflammation, or other liver disorders.
Celexa, a brand name for citalopram, is an antidepressant medication, used to treat depression and various mood disorders. (1)
Liver damage is a rare side effect of Celexa but it is potentially serious. It is important to note that people are different and respond differently to medications.
If you’re taking Celexa and you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain or jaundice, please reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide you with personalized guidance and monitor your condition as needed. (1,3)
What does research suggest?
Research studies indicate that Celexa may cause liver toxicity, which may lead to liver damage. One study presented a case where an 83-year-old woman experienced liver damage after taking citalopram. As soon as she was admitted to the hospital, the medication was stopped.
A liver biopsy revealed significant damage and inflammation caused by the drug. Fortunately, after discontinuing citalopram, the patient made a full recovery within a few days. (2)
Another case was reported, where a 30-year-old woman who was suffering from depression started taking citalopram and experienced jaundice and itching 2 months later.
The blood tests showed high levels of liver enzymes. Her tests for viral hepatitis and autoimmune liver diseases were negative. After stopping citalopram, her symptoms were relieved in 2 months and 6 months later her liver tests were normal. (2)
What are the signs and symptoms of liver damage from Celexa?
The signs and symptoms of liver damage from Celexa may include: (3)
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Abdominal pain: Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen
- Dark urine
- Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and weakness, such as restless legs
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Loss of Appetite
- Intense itching of the skin
- Pale stools
- Swelling: Edema or swelling in the abdomen or legs (in severe cases).
- Unusual bleeding or Bruising
- Abnormal heart rhythms (3)
Who is more susceptible to Celexa-induced liver damage?
Some individuals may be at a slightly higher risk of experiencing liver problems due to the medication. These risk factors can include:
- Pre-existing liver conditions: Individuals with impaired liver functions, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, are at a higher risk of experiencing liver problems when taking Celexa.
- Alcohol use: Heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of liver damage when using medications like Celexa.
- Age: Older adults are more at risk because liver function can decline with age.
- Polypharmacy: Taking multiple medications, especially those metabolized by the liver, can increase the risk of drug interactions and potential liver damage. (1,3)
What steps should you take if you suspect Celexa-related liver injury?
If you suspect that you may be experiencing liver injury related to the use of Celexa, Here are the steps you should consider: (2,3)
- Seek Medical Attention: Contact your doctor right away. Describe your symptoms and suspicion of liver injury related to Celexa. Do not stop Celexa abruptly. Doing so can lead to disturbing withdrawal symptoms.
- Medical Evaluation: Your healthcare provider will likely conduct a thorough medical evaluation, such as a physical examination, blood tests etc to confirm the presence of any liver injury.
- Medication Management: Your doctor may recommend alternative medications if Celexa is causing liver problems, such as Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro and Paxil. (2,3)
Conclusion:
In this article, we have discussed the toxicity of Celexa (Citalopram) on the liver. We also discussed the effective manageable ways to minimize liver damage by Celexa.
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