Does Citalopram cause dissociation? (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 the dissociation caused by Citalopram. We will also discuss some research studies and what to do if you experience dissociation as a result of taking Citalopram.
Does Citalopram cause dissociation?
Yes, Citalopram may cause dissociation in some individuals. Although dissociation is not a common or typical side effect of Citalopram, some individuals may report experiencing dissociative symptoms while taking Citalopram.
Citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is an antidepressant used to treat mental health conditions like depression or anxiety (1).
What is dissociation?
Dissociation is a mental process where an individual feels disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, identity or surroundings. It can manifest as feelings of unreality, depersonalization (feeling detached from oneself) or derealization (feeling disconnected from the external world) (2).
Dissociative symptoms can be associated with various mental health conditions, including dissociative disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety disorders (3).
If you are experiencing dissociation or any unusual or distressing symptoms while taking Citalopram, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider.
What does research suggest?
There is limited research indicating dissociation caused by Citalopram use. However, SSRIs in general can cause dissociation or depolarization, which is relatively more common in people who are new to Citalopram or antidepressants in general. It is important to note that Citalopram, being an antidepressant, can also help people with dissociation associated with depression.
One research study has indicated that Citalopram in combination with Clonazepam (benzodiazepine) can help people overcome depersonalization and the combination is generally well-tolerated when the doses are adjusted properly (4).
However, antidepressants like Citalopram can cause different side effects in different individuals. It is important to keep an eye on the side effects you are experiencing and discuss them with your healthcare provider to mitigate them in the best possible way.
Factors influencing Citalopram-induced dissociation
Citalopram-induced dissociation can be influenced by various factors including:
Dosage: The dosage of citalopram taken can influence the likelihood and severity of dissociation. Higher doses may increase the risk.
Duration of use: Long-term use of Citalopram may cause dissociation symptoms. Some individuals may develop tolerance or experience different side effects over time.
Individual sensitivity: Everyone has a different brain chemistry. Some people may be more sensitive to the effects of Citalopram, including dissociation.
Underlying conditions: People with certain mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders or dissociative disorders, may be more susceptible to experiencing dissociation as a side effect.
Interactions with other medications: Citalopram can interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of dissociation, especially when combined with other drugs that affect brain function.
Compliance with dosage: Non-compliance, such as skipping doses or abruptly stopping medication, can lead to withdrawal effects, including dissociation (5). Always remember antidepressants take some time to produce their full effect. So be patient while taking these medications.
It is essential for individuals taking Citalopram to communicate openly with their healthcare provider about any side effects, including dissociation. They can consider these factors and make appropriate adjustments to medication dosages to manage any adverse effects effectively.
Managing dissociation symptoms while taking Citalopram
Managing dissociation symptoms while taking Citalopram or any other medication should be done in consultation with a healthcare provider.
Dissociation can be a complex and distressing symptom. If someone experiences this side effect while taking Citalopram, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether the symptoms are related to Citalopram or other factors and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
In some cases, lowering the doses of Citalopram or changing the timing when you take it may help reduce dissociation symptoms.
Ensure that your healthcare provider is aware of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements because some interactions can contribute to dissociative symptoms.
Reducing stress through techniques like yoga or exercise can be beneficial in managing dissociation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Citalopram is not typically associated with dissociation as a common side effect, individual responses to medications vary. It is essential to be aware of any unusual or distressing symptoms and to communicate them to your healthcare provider promptly. They can assess and address these symptoms and determine the most appropriate course of action, which may include adjusting the medication or exploring alternative treatments.
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References
2.-
MFMER (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research). Dissociative disorder. 1998-2023.”https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dissociative-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20355215
3.-
Symptoms of a dissociative disorder. Page last reviewed: 14 August 2023.https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/dissociative-disorders/
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