Is Celexa bad for kidneys? (3 +differences)
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 the effects of Celexa (Citalopram) on kidneys. We will also discuss some research studies and the factors affecting kidney functions while taking Celexa.
Is Celexa bad for kidneys?
Celexa (Citalopram) is not necessarily bad for the kidneys. However, responses to antidepressants can vary from person to person. Unlike some other medications, Celexa is not known to be directly toxic to the kidneys.
Celexa, a brand for Citalopram, is a prescription medication used to treat depression and sometimes other mood disorders like anxiety. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (1).
What does research suggest?
There are limited research studies indicating the use of Celexa in patients having kidney issues.
One study justified the use of Celexa in patients with moderately impaired renal function. In these patients, no reduction of Celexa dosage is required. However, this may not be the case for individuals with severe renal failure (2).
However, it is essential to keep in mind that individual responses to medications can vary and some people may experience side effects that indirectly affect their overall health. Always reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Factors affecting kidney function while taking Celexa
Factors affecting kidney function while taking Celexa may include:
Pre-existing kidney conditions: Individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions may be more susceptible to the effects of Celexa on kidney function. Healthcare providers need to consider a patient’s renal health when prescribing Celexa.
Drug interactions: Celexa may interact with other medications that can affect kidney function. For example, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can potentially cause kidney issues, and combining them with Celexa may increase the risk.
Dosage: Higher doses of Celexa may carry a higher risk of kidney-related side effects. Adjusting the dosage of Celexa may help mitigate these risks in some cases.
Individual variability: Individual factors like genetics and overall health can influence the effects of Celexa on kidneys. Some people may be more susceptible to kidney-related side effects than others.
Dehydration: Celexa may cause side effects like dry mouth and sweating (3). These side effects can lead to dehydration, if not addressed. Dehydration can strain the kidneys and potentially affect their function.
How Celexa is different from nephrotoxic drugs?
Celexa, an antidepressant medication, is generally not known to cause significant kidney issues directly.
Its primary purpose is to treat depression and anxiety disorders by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain. It is primarily metabolized in the liver, with its byproducts excreted through the urinary system.
On the other hand, drugs affecting kidney functions are called nephrotoxic drugs. They can damage the kidneys by impairing their filtration and blood flow, leading to reduced kidney function. It results in a condition like acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease (4). Certain antibiotics (e.g. aminoglycosides) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may cause kidney damage.
The key difference lies in the intended purpose and mechanism of action. Celexa does not affect the kidneys because it does not have a mechanism of action that directly affects kidney function.
However, some side effects of antidepressants like dry mouth and sweating may indirectly impact hydration levels which can affect kidney function. Staying adequately hydrated is essential while taking antidepressants.
Discussing risks with a healthcare provider
Celexa and most SSRIs are not typically associated with kidney issues. However, it is crucial to discuss any concerns about kidneys with your healthcare provider before starting Celexa or any other medication.
Your healthcare provider can assess your specific medical history, monitor your kidney functions as needed and make appropriate recommendations to ensure your safety and well-being during the treatment.
If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking Celexa, including changes in urination or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
Celexa should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider and dosages should be tailored to the individual needs. Discontinuing or changing the dosages of Celexa should be done under medical supervision to minimize potential withdrawal symptoms or side effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Celexa (Citalopram) is generally considered to have a low risk of directly affecting kidney function. Although it may not be associated with kidney issues, individual responses to medication can vary, and any concerns about kidney health should be discussed with a healthcare provider, who can provide personalized guidance and monitoring as needed.
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References
2.-
Joffe P, Larsen FS, Pedersen V, Ring-Larsen H, Aaes-Jørgensen T, Sidhu J. Single-dose pharmacokinetics of citalopram in patients with moderate renal insufficiency or hepatic cirrhosis compared with healthy subjects. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1998 May;54(3):237-42. doi: 10.1007/s002280050452. PMID: 9681666.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9681666/
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