Does Citalopram cause back pain? (5 tips for back health)
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
This article will comprehensively answer a common question: Does Citalopram cause back pain? We will explore other factors that could contribute to back pain and offer some practical tips for relief.
Does Citalopram cause back pain?
Citalopram can cause back pain but chances are very low. Back pain is listed as a rare and uncommon side effect of Citalopram. (1)
Individual responses to Citalopram can vary significantly, and what one experiences may not apply to others.
Therefore, while back pain may be listed as a possible side effect, the likelihood of experiencing it should not deter individuals from considering Citalopram for depression and anxiety.
What does research suggest?
Research suggests that Citalopram may be linked to decreased bone mineral density. This can potentially elevate the risk of osteoporotic fractures, particularly when bone density becomes notably low.
Such fractures or collapses in the spine can result in back pain, contributing to discomfort and musculoskeletal issues including back pain. (2,3,4)
While back pain is not a prevalent side effect of Citalopram, it remains a possibility. Furthermore, Citalopram can induce other side effects, such as muscle or joint pain. These additional side effects might indirectly contribute to the sensation of back pain or exacerbate existing discomfort. (1)
Back pain can originate because of other reasons that are unrelated to Citalopram use. These encompass underlying medical conditions such as arthritis, poor posture, lack of physical activity, and excessive body weight.
Identifying and addressing these underlying health concerns is crucial when determining the cause of back pain. (4)
Individuals dealing with depression and other psychological conditions may experience physical symptoms, including back pain and joint discomfort. This can further complicate the assessment of the origin of back pain. (5)
What to do if Citalopram is causing back pain?
If you suspect that Citalopram is causing you back pain, it’s essential to take the following steps
Consult your healthcare provider
Reaching out to your healthcare provider or prescribing physician as soon as possible is essential if you suspect that Citalopram is causing your back pain. Describe your symptoms, including the type and intensity of the back pain, as well as when it started and any other associated symptoms.
Assessment and medication review
Your healthcare provider will assess your condition thoroughly. This may involve a physical examination and a review of your medical history. They will also evaluate your current medications, including Citalopram.
Depending on their findings, they may consider adjusting your dose, switching to an alternative medication, or discontinuing Citalopram if they suspect it’s the cause of your back pain.
Pain management and alternative treatments
Depending on the severity of your back pain, your healthcare provider may recommend pain management strategies. This can include exercise, physical therapy, and hot or cold compress.
If Citalopram proves unsuitable for you due to back pain or other side effects, your healthcare provider may explore alternative medications or therapeutic approaches for managing your condition.
Avoid taking over-the-counter NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or diclofenac etc as they can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with SSRIs like Sertraline and Citalopram.
How to manage and prevent back pain while taking Citalopram?
To ensure a healthy back while taking Citalopram, consider these practical tips:
- Maintain proper sitting and standing posture, and use chairs with lumbar support. Avoid prolonged slouching.
- Incorporate core-strengthening activities like yoga or swimming. Consult a healthcare provider before starting a new exercise regimen.
- Utilise ergonomic chairs and keyboard setups to minimise strain. Adjust computer monitors to eye level and take regular breaks for stretching and movement.
- Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity to reduce back strain. Ensure a calcium-rich diet.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects, but if you have to, use proper lifting techniques. Bend at the knees and involve leg muscles, especially when lifting heavy objects.
In conclusion, experiencing back pain while taking Citalopram is highly unlikely, as it is a rare side effect.
However, if you encounter back pain while using this medication, you must consult your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.
Your well-being is paramount, and your healthcare provider can provide personalised guidance and address any potential issues appropriately.
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