Does Citalopram cause water retention? (3+ risk 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 whether Citalopram causes water retention. Furthermore, we will discuss what research suggests, what risk factors influence this side effect, and what to do if you experience this side effect.
Does Citalopram cause water retention?
Yes, using Citalopram (Celexa) may cause water retention in some individuals. Although it is not commonly reported, water retention (also known as oedema) is listed as a rare side effect of this medication (1,2).
Citalopram, a selective serotonin receptor inhibitor (SSRI) medication that primarily increases serotonin levels in the brain and peripheral system, is typically the preferred treatment for managing depressive diorders, anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
However, there has been growing interest in investigating its potential side effects and impact on fluid balance in the body in some individuals (1,2,3).
Water retention (oedema), defined as swelling caused by accumulation of the interstitial fluid, is typically a consequence of prolonged use of SSRI antidepressant medications, including Citalopram (3,4).
It is essential to understand that several individual-specific factors influence the likelihood of experiencing oedema, and not everyone taking this medication will encounter it.
If you do experience water retention, manifesting as weight gain, swelling, skin discolouration, and tenderness, while taking Citalopram, it is advisable to seek immediate medical assistance from your healthcare provider.
What does research suggest?
While research studies on Citalopram and water retention are limited, and current findings are inconclusive, several studies have proposed that the mechanism of Citalopram-induced water retention could be linked to alterations in serotonin levels in the body.
As previously mentioned, SSRI medications like Citalopram influence serotonin levels in the brain and peripheral system.
Serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating various body functions, including the control of blood pressure and vascular tone. Serotonin imbalance may potentially affect the body’s ability to manage fluid balance potentially leading to oedema (1,2,3).
Moreover, Citalopram may affect the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis) directly influencing the synthesis and release of the antidiuretic hormone and potentially causing SIADH.
A study that investigated the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) associated with Citalopram use hypothesized that Citalopram-induced water retention may be due to the disruption of water and electrolyte balance linked to SIADH (5).
What factors can contribute to Citalopram-induced water retention?
The likelihood of developing water retention while taking Citalopram varies from person to person and it may be influenced by factors such as (1,2,3):
- Individual response: Individuals more sensitive to Citalopram are more likely to experience its side effects such as oedema.
- Dose: Higher doses of Citalopram are more likely to cause side effects such as water retention.
- Duration of use: Long-term use of Citalopram may increase the risk of developing water retention.:
- Pre-existing medical conditions: Underlying health conditions such as heart and kidney problems increase the risk of developing oedema while taking Citalopram.
- Medication interactions: Citalopram can interact with other medications and potentially cause water retention.
- Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle choices such as a high-sodium diet, stress and insufficient physical activity may contribute to water retention.
What to do if Citalopram causes water retention?
If you are taking this medication, it is advisable to be aware of its benefits and potential effects, including water retention. Therefore, it is important to take the following steps to minimize and manage water retention while taking this medication (3,4,5)
Consult your healthcare provider:
If you are taking Citalopram and experience symptoms of water retention, it is crucial to promptly seek medical assistance from your healthcare provider. They will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your specific situation and determine if Citalopram is the cause of your oedema.
If it is, your doctor may consider adjusting your medication dosage to reduce the likelihood of experiencing water retention. Additionally, they may recommend switching to an alternative antidepressant, such as Mirtazapine, which is less likely to induce water retention.
In severe cases, your doctor may recommend discontinuing the medication under their supervision to minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
Lifestyle modifications:
Adjusting lifestyle factors can help alleviate water retention. These measures may include:
- Dietary changes include reduced sodium intake, increased potassium intake, and proper hydration.
- Engaging in regular physical activity improves circulation and reduces water retention.
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques to reduce its effect on fluid balance.
Conclusion
Although the exact mechanism is not fully understood, Citalopram has the potential to induce water retention in certain individuals. It is crucial for individuals taking Citalopram to be aware of this side effect and to maintain regular and frequent consultations with their doctor.
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