Does Citalopram contain iron or zinc? (3 key points)
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 (Celexa) contain iron or zinc. We will also discuss the importance of iron or zinc in the body and the potential effects of Citalopram on iron and zinc in the body.
Does Citalopram contain iron or zinc?
No, Citalopram does not contain iron or zinc. Citalopram, an antidepressant, is used to treat mental health conditions. It does not contain iron or zinc as a part of its chemical composition.
Citalopram is primarily composed of citalopram hydrobromide and other inactive ingredients that help form the tablet or capsule. It is not a source of dietary iron or calcium.
However, some Citalopram formulations may contain iron oxide as a colouring agent which should not be confused with dietary iron (1).
Make sure to consult with your healthcare provider if you want to take iron and zinc supplements along with Citalopram.
The key difference between Citalopram and iron or zinc
Citalopram is a medication used to treat mood disorders such as depression and anxiety by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, while iron and zinc are essential minerals with distinct roles in the body.
Iron is vital for the production of haemoglobin, the protein in the red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency can lead to anaemia resulting in fatigue, weakness and reduced cognitive function (2).
Zinc, on the other hand, is involved in various biochemical processes including immune function. It also supports normal growth and development. A lack of zinc can weaken the immune system and impair overall growth and health (3).
Unlike Citalopram which is a pharmaceutical drug, iron and zinc are naturally occurring elements that the body needs for overall health, and their deficiency or excess can lead to specific health problems.
Effects of Citalopram on iron and zinc in the body
Citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, is an antidepressant used to treat mental health conditions (4). It is not known to have a direct effect on iron and zinc levels in the body.
However, individuals taking Citalopram to treat depression should be aware of potential interactions or side effects that could indirectly affect their nutritional status. For example:
- Some people may experience gastrointestinal side effects with Citalopram use like nausea, diarrhoea and loss of appetite. These side effects can lead to reduced food intake, and potentially impact nutrient absorption including iron and zinc.
- If an individual is taking multiple medications, there could be interactions or effects on nutrient absorption or metabolism. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider of all the medications and supplements you are taking to ensure there are no adverse interactions.
Citalopram is not known to directly affect iron and zinc levels in the body. However, it is important to keep an eye on your dietary habits and nutritional status while taking Citalopram and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to ensure your nutritional needs are fulfilled.
Is it safe to take iron and zinc supplements with citalopram?
It is generally considered safe for most individuals to take iron and zinc supplements along with Citalopram. However, there are a few important considerations:
Consulting healthcare provider
Before starting any new supplement, especially if you are already taking medication like Citalopram, consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual needs and guide the appropriate dosage and timing of supplements.
Side effects
Some people may experience gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, or constipation while taking iron or zinc supplements.
If you encounter such side effects inform your healthcare provider as Citalopram is also associated with these side effects in some people, so the concomitant use of medication and supplements can intensify these side effects.
It is important to note that individual responses to the medication can vary. So it is crucial to communicate with your healthcare professional about the safe and effective use of Citalopram and supplements together.
Conclusion
In conclusion, citalopram does not contain iron or zinc as a part of its chemical composition. Therefore, Citalopram is not a source of dietary iron or zinc. If individuals have concerns about iron or zinc intake, they should explore dietary sources under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
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References
1.-
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. Citalopram Hydrobromide Tablet. Version 18. Effective Time: 20221207https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=52bf0f9e-e6c3-4dd8-921d-2e74605e07d1&type=display
2.-
Strengthening Knowledge and Understanding of Dietary Supplements. Updated: August 17, 2023https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-Consumer/#:~:text=Iron%20is%20a%20mineral%20that,iron%20to%20make%20some%20hormones.
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