Does Citalopram help Paranoia? (+3 options) )
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 explore the potential and effectiveness of Citalopram (Celexa) in the treatment of paranoia. We will further discuss the alternative treatment options for managing paranoia if the symptoms are not getting better with Citalopram.
Does Citalopram help paranoia?
Citalopram may help manage paranoia, but it is not a first-line therapy for this condition.
Citalopram is an antidepressant that works by selectively inhibiting serotonin reuptake in the brain and is primarily used in the treatment of major depressive disorder, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (1). Paranoia often accompanies these conditions as a comorbidity so, Citalopram may indirectly help manage paranoia by treating its associated symptoms.
What does research suggest?
According to research, Citalopram has the potential to alleviate paranoia by lowering dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex of the brain. This is significant because excess dopamine in the brain can contribute to the development or exacerbation of symptoms of paranoia (2,3).
A study conducted on an 80-year-old patient with violent behavior and paranoia, unresponsive to typical and atypical antipsychotics, when treated with Citalopram experienced substantial relief within four days (4).
In another study, Citalopram exhibited a promising role in alleviating paranoia-related symptoms, particularly agitation in dementia patients (4).
Additionally, Citalopram elevates mood, reduces anxiety, promotes social interaction, improves decision-making, and stabilizes the emotional state (5). These benefits collectively help individuals manage paranoia and related symptoms.
How do you know if you have paranoia?
Paranoia is characterized by irrational beliefs that others are deceiving you or trying to harm you. If you’re unsure whether you are experiencing paranoia, here are some signs and considerations (6):
- Mistrust and suspicion toward people
- Anxiety, leading to constant fear and worry
- Poor relationships and social isolation
- Palpitations
- Substance dependence
- Defensiveness
- Irritability, aggression, and agitation
Benefits and limitations of Citalopram in treating paranoia
Citalopram is beneficial in alleviating the symptoms associated with paranoia such as anxiety, agitation, and negative thoughts. It not only helps in the stabilization of mood but also promotes emotional well-being in paranoids.
Along with the benefits, citalopram like other medications can cause some side effects in individuals. The most common side effects of citalopram are (7):
- Insomnia
- Night sweats
- Nausea, vomiting
- Constipation
- Xerostomia
- Headache
- Hemorrhage
- Serotonin syndrome
- Irregular heart rate
If you experience any of the above-mentioned side effects, reach out to your healthcare provider right away, as this information can help them select appropriate medications for your condition. However, it is important to note that these side effects do not affect everyone, and their intensities can vary among individuals.
What to do if paranoia is not getting better with Citalopram?
If paranoia is not getting better with Citalopram, talk to your healthcare provider. There are several alternative treatment options for paranoia that are better than Citalopram.
Typically, antipsychotic medications such as olanzapine, risperidone, and paliperidone palmitate are prescribed for paranoia. However, there is currently no FDA-approved medication to completely eradicate this condition.
Lifestyle changes and cognitive behavioral therapy are proven to be effective against paranoia. Embracing a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, yoga, and adequate sleep can help individuals reduce paranoid symptoms.
Some individuals may also find relief through holistic approaches including acupuncture, herbal medications, and meditation because such techniques can contribute to overall mental well-being and reduce paranoia.
It is important to note that Citalopram alone cannot completely treat paranoia. Starting any medication without proper diagnosis and prescription should be avoided. If you’re uncertain about which medication to take, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting the treatment.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed the potential of Citalopram in the treatment of paranoia, and the alternative treatment options if the symptoms are not getting better with Citalopram.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
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. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1407724/
2.-
Barnby JM, Bell V, Deeley Q, Mehta MA. Dopamine manipulations modulate paranoid social inferences in healthy people. Transl Psychiatry. 2020 Jul 5;10(1):214. doi: 10.1038/s41398-020-00912-4. PMID: 32624569; PMCID: PMC7335741. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32624569/
3.-
Kaneko F, Kawahara Y, Kishikawa Y, Hanada Y, Yamada M, Kakuma T, Kawahara H, Nishi A. Long-Term Citalopram Treatment Alters the Stress Responses of the Cortical Dopamine and Noradrenaline Systems: the Role of Cortical 5-HT1A Receptors. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol. 2016 Aug 12;19(8):pyw026. doi: 10.1093/ijnp/pyw026. PMID: 27029212; PMCID: PMC5006198. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27029212/
4.-
Kotbi N, Singh A, Kneifati-Hayek J, Odom A, Alexopoulos G. Citalopram in agitated and delusional demented patients who failed treatment with antipsychotic agents. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2014 Apr 1;26(2):E62. doi: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.13060122. PMID: 24763800. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24763800/
5.-
Zorick T, Okita K, Renard KB, Mandelkern MA, Brody AL, London ED. The Effects of Citalopram and Thalamic Dopamine D2/3 Receptor Availability on Decision-Making and Loss Aversion in Alcohol Dependence. Psychiatry J. 2022 Sep 20;2022:5663274. doi: 10.1155/2022/5663274. PMID: 36249526; PMCID: PMC9553840. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9553840/
6.-
Iacovino JM, Jackson JJ, Oltmanns TF. The relative impact of socioeconomic status and childhood trauma on Black-White differences in paranoid personality disorder symptoms. J Abnorm Psychol. 2014 Feb;123(1):225-30. doi: 10.1037/a0035258. PMID: 24661172; PMCID: PMC4370342. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4370342/
7.-
Feighner JP, Overø K. Multicenter, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose study of citalopram in moderate-to-severe depression. J Clin Psychiatry. 1999 Dec;60(12):824-30. doi: 10.4088/jcp.v60n1204. PMID: 10665628. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10665628/
8.-
Birkeland SF. Psychopharmacological treatment and course in paranoid personality disorder: a case series. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 2013 Sep;28(5):283-5. doi: 10.1097/YIC.0b013e328363f676. PMID: 23820335. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23820335/
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