Does Citalopram cause headaches? (5+ tips)
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 Citalopram causes headaches. Furthermore, we will explore what the research suggests about Citalopram and headaches, what are the possible causes and how to manage headaches while using Citalopram.
Does Citalopram cause headaches?
Yes, Citalopram does cause headaches, and it is a common adverse effect of this antidepressant (1). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Citalopram are commonly associated with headaches. Additionally, sudden discontinuation of Citalopram may also result in headaches.
What does research suggest?
According to a research study, 15-18% of patients experience headaches while taking Citalopram. However, Citalopram is generally a well-tolerated antidepressant medicine, both for shorter and longer treatments, with mild side effects such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and sleep disturbances (2,3).
These common side effects associated with Citalopram may go away when used for longer periods. Citalopram is considered to be a safe antidepressant for patients who can not tolerate the severe side effects of other antidepressants (4,5).
What are the causes of Citalopram-induced headaches?
The following causes may contribute to Citalopram-induced headaches:
Serotonin levels
Citalopram, as a selective serotonin inhibitor (SSRI), works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. These changes in serotonin levels may cause headaches in some patients (6).
Changes in blood flow
Serotonin may play a vital role in regulating blood flow to blood vessels; hence, lower serotonin levels in the early phase of Citalopram treatment may be linked to the onset of headaches.
The altered serotonin levels, caused by Citalopram’s activity, may induce headaches in some patients, especially during the early phase of treatment (7).
Tolerance level
Some individuals are more sensitive to medicines and are more likely to experience side effects, however, not everyone using Citalopram may experience headaches. Citalopram takes one or two weeks to start working, hence, these headaches may subside within this time as the body adjusts to the medication.
How to get rid of Citalopram-induced headaches?
You may get rid of Citalopram-induced headaches in the following ways:
Analgesics
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers (analgesics) such as Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, or Paracetamol, can provide relief from Citalopram-induced headaches (8). However, these headaches may resolve as your body adapts to the medication.
Dose reduction
If headaches caused by Citalopram become bothersome, inform your doctor. If necessary, they may reduce your dosage and monitor your body’s response.
If discontinuing Citalopram becomes necessary due to severe headaches, it should be done through a proper tapering plan to avoid serious side effects. Abrupt discontinuation of Citalopram is not advisable.
Hydration
Keep yourself well-hydrated throughout the day while taking Citalopram, as dehydration may also trigger headaches in some individuals. Consume different fluids or juices if you have difficulty drinking enough water.
Ensure enough sleep
You should follow a good bedtime routine to promote quality sleep. Get enough sleep for 8-9 hours daily, as it may help prevent the worsening of headaches caused by Citalopram.
Avoid triggers
Identify and avoid any triggers that can exaggerate your headaches, such as excessive use of smartphones, electronic gadgets, noise, bright lights, strong odours, etc.
Changes in routine
Change your daily routine by incorporating regular exercise, yoga, meditation, relaxation therapies, or walks. Reduce alcohol and caffeine consumption, as these may also trigger headaches in some individuals. You may also get a good massage to feel better.
What to do if Citalopram-induced headache persists?
If your headaches persist for more than two weeks, then please inform your doctor. Headaches associated with Citalopram are mostly reduced within two weeks as the body adjusts to the medication.
However, if the headaches do not go away on their own, there might be some other underlying problems. Your doctor may evaluate your current symptoms, family/medical history and other underlying factors that may contribute to headaches and guide you accordingly.
Conclusion
While Citalopram can lead to headaches as a side effect, these headaches are manageable through pain relievers, dosage adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and maintaining good health practices.
It is important to note that Citalopram-induced headaches may subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they worsen or persist, you should inform your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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References
1.-
Sharbaf Shoar N, Fariba KA, Padhy RK. Citalopram. 2021 Dec 11. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29489221. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29489221/
2.-
Muldoon C. The safety and tolerability of citalopram. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 1996 Mar;11 Suppl 1:35-40. doi: 10.1097/00004850-199603001-00007. Erratum in: Int Clin Psychopharmacol 1996 Jun;11(2):153. PMID: 8732443. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8732443/
3.-
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. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10863884/
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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. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10860138/
5.-
Milne RJ, Goa KL. Citalopram. A review of its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties, and therapeutic potential in depressive illness. Drugs. 1991 Mar;41(3):450-77. doi: 10.2165/00003495-199141030-00008. PMID: 1711447. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1711447/
6.-
Marcus DA. Serotonin and its role in headache pathogenesis and treatment. Clin J Pain. 1993 Sep;9(3):159-67. doi: 10.1097/00002508-199309000-00002. PMID: 8219515. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8219515/
7.-
Vashadze ShV, Sardzhveladze NM. [Relationship between serum blood serotonin and tension–type headache]. Georgian Med News. 2009 Jun;(171):44-7. Russian. PMID: 19578213. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
8.-
Robbins MS. Diagnosis and Management of Headache: A Review. JAMA. 2021 May 11;325(18):1874-1885. doi: 10.1001/jama.2021.1640. PMID: 33974014. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33974014/
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