How does Citalopram 20mg make you feel? (+3 effects)

In this article, we will discuss the effects of citalopram 20mg on individuals, the potential side effects of citalopram 20mg, and their management.

How does Citalopram 20mg make you feel?

Citalopram 20mg makes you feel more stable and balanced emotionally. People often report experiencing improved mood, reduced feelings of sadness or anxiety, and enhanced overall well-being when Celexa effectively addresses their depression or anxiety.

However, it’s important to remember that individual responses can vary, and the specific impact on someone’s mood and emotions may differ. The aim of citalopram is to help restore a sense of emotional balance and improve overall mental health.

The feelings after taking citalopram can vary from person to person, so it’s important to discuss any effects, positive or negative, with your healthcare provider to ensure the medication is working as intended.

What does research suggest?

According to research, citalopram can influence how you feel, particularly regarding your ability to recognize mild yet intense expressions of happiness. This effect is known to improve early in the course of citalopram treatment and can be predictive of your response to antidepressant therapy and your potential for achieving remission (3). 

Citalopram works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain which is associated with the regulation of emotional states and plays a role in regulating feelings of satisfaction, joy, and optimism (4).

20mg is considered as the minimal effective dose of Citalopram. Research indicates that individuals experiencing their first episode of depression or those with less severe depression often respond well to this lower dosage. However, for patients dealing with severe or recurrent depression, a higher dosage of 40 mg may yield better results (2).

What are the positive effects of Citalopram?

Citalopram offers a range of potential benefits for those struggling with conditions like depression and anxiety. These benefits extend beyond merely alleviating symptoms and may encompass improvements in various aspects of daily life. 

Emotional and mental effects

Citalopram can have various emotional and mental effects when prescribed at a dosage of 20mg. It is primarily prescribed to improve mood in people dealing with depression, who often endure persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, excessive anxiety, and hopelessness.

When used as prescribed by a healthcare professional, Citalopram can help reduce the severity of OCD symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.

Mood enhancement

Citalopram, by increasing the levels of serotonin, is associated with promoting a positive and stable mood. Serotonin is involved in regulating emotions, mood, and social behavior. It helps in balancing feelings of well-being, happiness, and contentment (1). 

Celexa may help stabilize mood swings and emotional fluctuations, providing individuals with a more even and consistent emotional state.

Improved Quality of Life

Citalopram enhances an individual’s overall quality of life by managing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It may assist individuals in regaining their interest in daily activities and enhancing their daily functioning.

What are the potential side effects of Citalopram?

A 20mg dosage of Citalopram is usually considered a relatively low or moderate dose. At this dose, many individuals may experience manageable side effects, and some individuals may not experience any side effects at all (5).

The most common symptoms include

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• headaches
• light-headedness
• dizziness
• diminished appetite
• sweating
• chills
• tremors
• fatigue
• sleep disturbances

Management of side effects of Citalopram

The management of side effects of Citalopram can involve symptomatic personalized treatment. It’s necessary to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your specific symptoms and get tailored treatment.

Here are some general strategies for managing common side effects of Citalopram:

• Taking Citalopram with food can help reduce nausea. Dividing your daily dose into two smaller doses can also be effective. If nausea persists, your doctor may recommend anti-nausea medications.
• Staying hydrated is essential to stimulate saliva production and to prevent subsequent dry mouthOTC painkillers like acetaminophen can help alleviate headaches.
• Taking Citalopram before bedtime can minimize side effects like drowsiness. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving, until you feel better.
• Maintain a balanced diet and exercise to minimize the potential for weight fluctuations. If you experience significant weight gain or loss, consult your healthcare provider.
• Discuss any sexual side effects with your doctor. They can recommend adjustments to your medication or additional treatments.
• If you encounter any other side effects or symptoms that concern you, communicate with your healthcare provider promptly for guidance.
• Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. This allows them to monitor your progress, evaluate the medication’s effectiveness, and make any required adjustments.

Personalized treatment strategies may involve dosage modifications, alterations in medication, or any other interventions based on your individual requirements and how you respond to Citalopram. Your healthcare provider will work with you to find the most effective and comfortable treatment plan while minimizing side effects. 

Conclusion

In this article, we have discussed the use of citalopram 20mg and its effects on individuals. Further, we have discussed the potential risks associated with the use of citalopram 20mg and their management.

References