Does Citalopram contain hormones? (+3 facts)
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 answer the question: Does Citalopram contain hormones? We will also discuss the effects of Citalopram on hormones and quality of life.
Does Citalopram contain hormones?
No, Citalopram does not contain hormones. Instead, it belongs to a class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Its primary function is to treat depression, OCD, panic disorder and anxiety by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. (1,2)
An increase in serotonin levels helps regulate mood. While serotonin itself is a neurotransmitter sometimes referred to as a “feel-good” hormone, Citalopram does not contain any hormones within its composition.
What do Citalopram formulations contain?
Citalopram formulations typically contain Citalopram hydrobromide and are combined with inactive ingredients to create the final dosage forms, such as tablets or capsules.
The inactive ingredients can vary among different brands and generic versions of the medication but usually include components like binders, fillers, and coatings.
Citalopram is available in standard doses of 10, 20 and 40 mg. This antidepressant is also marketed under various brand names in different countries.
One of its well-known brand names is Celexa, while in some regions, it may be recognised as Cipramil. No formulation of Citalopram contains hormones. (1,2)
Does Citalopram affect other hormones?
Some individuals may experience hormone imbalances as a side effect of using Citalopram, but this is a result of the medication’s influence on the brain’s chemistry, specifically serotonin, rather than the presence of hormones in the drug itself.
Due to its influence on serotonin, some hormonal effects have been observed in specific contexts. Research studies have indicated that Citalopram can increase prolactin levels, particularly following intravenous administration. Elevated prolactin levels may affect various physiological functions, including reproduction. (3)
Research has also revealed the potential for menstrual irregularities. These may manifest as alterations in the timing and intensity of menstrual periods, including heavier bleeding, spotting, or bleeding between cycles for some individuals. (4)
It’s important to emphasise that these changes are not universal and do not affect all women taking Citalopram. Moreover, when these menstrual changes occur, they are typically mild and manageable.
What are other side effects of Citalopram?
Citalopram can have the following side effects on different aspects of life. Some of the side effects of citalopram can overlap with symptoms of hormonal imbalances, particularly in areas like mental, physical, and sexual well-being. (1,2,5)
Sexual Function
Citalopram can sometimes lead to sexual side effects, such as painful erections, difficulty achieving or maintaining erections, changes in ejaculation, vaginal bleeding, altered orgasm experiences, and decreased sexual desire. These effects often improve within the first few weeks of treatment.
Physical Side Effects
Citalopram can also cause various physical side effects, including dry mouth, irregular heartbeats, increased sweating, nausea, constipation, stomach discomfort, heartburn, headaches, joint pain, drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision. Generally, these side effects are mild and tend to get better over time. However, some people may experience more severe or long-lasting physical side effects.
Mental Health
Citalopram is primarily prescribed to improve the symptoms of anxiety, mood disorder and depression. However, like many other antidepressants, Citalopram can sometimes lead to unexpected changes in mental health.
This might include an increase in thoughts of self-harm or suicidal thoughts, especially at the beginning of treatment or when the dosage is adjusted.
It’s crucial to emphasise that while Citalopram can have these side effects, many individuals use the medication without encountering significant challenges. If you have concerns about how Citalopram may affect you or experience any side effects, discuss them with your doctor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Citalopram does not contain hormones within its composition. It is an antidepressant medication classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), primarily designed to regulate serotonin levels in the brain and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
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