Does Citalopram dehydrate you? (3+ strategies)
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 Citalopram-induced dehydration. We will also discuss what one should do if this side effect occurs.
Does Citalopram dehydrate you?
Yes, Citalopram may cause dehydration in some individuals. Dehydration is not a commonly reported side effect associated with its use. However, people respond differently to medications and some people may experience unusual or unexpected side effects.
Citalopram (Celexa) is a commonly prescribed anti-depressant, used to treat mental health conditions like depression and anxiety (1).
Citalopram rarely causes dehydration. Remember that the potential for side effects varies from person to person, so it is essential to have open communication with your healthcare provider when taking Citalopram or any medication.
Why does Citalopram cause dehydration?
Citalopram causes dehydration very rarely (2). The exact mechanism by which Citalopram causes dehydration is not known but it may be due to disruption of the body’s natural mechanism by antidepressants for controlling temperature, blood pressure and fluid balance.
This interference can make the body heat up more rapidly than usual. However, some individuals indirectly experience symptoms of dehydration while taking Citalopram, such as increased thirst, dry mouth, excessive sweating, dark urine or reduced urination.
These side effects are not the same as dehydration but may potentially put you at risk of becoming dehydrated if you do not drink enough water. It is important for individuals taking Citalopram or any medication to remain hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
If you suspect you are experiencing dehydration or have concerns about the side effects of Citalopram, it is essential to discuss the symptoms with your healthcare provider to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication.
How to manage dehydration while taking Citalopram?
Managing dehydration while taking Citalopram (Celexa) or any medication is important for your overall health. Here are some steps you can take:
Stay hydrated: Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water even if you are not experiencing thirst.
Monitor dehydration symptoms: Maintaining proper hydration is indicated by having very pale yellow urine, while darker shades of yellow suggest increasing levels of dehydration.
Limit caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics, increasing urine production and potentially leading to dehydration (3).To stay hydrated, drink water alongside these beverages and limit their consumption.
Avoid excessive sweating: Be cautious when exercising in hot weather, and take breaks to rehydrate. Wear appropriate clothing to prevent excessive sweating.
Eating habits: Eating smaller, lighter meals rich in fruits and vegetables can help regulate your body temperature and can also contribute to better hydration.
Remember that managing hydration is necessary for your overall well-being, and it is crucial to stay proactive in maintaining proper hydration levels, especially when taking medications that may affect fluid balance.
What to do if Citalopram-induced dehydration persists?
If you suspect that Citalopram is causing persistent dehydration, it is crucial to take the following steps.
- Reach out to your healthcare provider to report your symptoms or concerns. They will assess your situation and determine whether Citalopram is indeed the cause of dehydration.
- Your healthcare provider may review your medication regimen and consider adjusting the dosage or exploring alternative treatments.
- Do not skip the doses or discontinue the medication on your own as it can result in withdrawal symptoms.
- Continue to drink plenty of water to combat dehydration.
It is important to note that not everyone taking Celexa will experience this side effect. Every individual has a unique genetic makeup and responds differently to medications. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while dehydration is not a commonly reported side effect of Citalopram (Celexa), some individuals may experience symptoms such as dry mouth or increased thirst while taking this medication. It is essential to maintain proper hydration and monitor unusual symptoms. If you suspect dehydration or experience severe side effects, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider promptly. They can assess your specific situation and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan to ensure your well-being.
Was this helpful?
References
2.-
CITALOPRAM – citalopram tablet, film coated. Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. Revised: 2/2022.https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/citalopram/side-effects-of-citalopram/
3.-
Polhuis KCMM, Wijnen AHC, Sierksma A, Calame W, Tieland M. The Diuretic Action of Weak and Strong Alcoholic Beverages in Elderly Men: A Randomized Diet-Controlled Crossover Trial. Nutrients. 2017 Jun 28;9(7):660. doi: 10.3390/nu9070660. PMID: 28657601; PMCID: PMC5537780.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5537780/
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
