Day 2 I got dizzy and nauseous. Today is day 7 and I'm still slightly dizzy and nauseous. Plus I get hot and start sweating in an instant like turning on a switch. Anybody know how long this will last before I start feeling normal again? Should I give up and go get a lower dose or is the worst over already?
Also, was slurring my speech a little at work today, sounding like an idiot.
Quit Citalopram cold turkey last week, didn't think would have withdrawals, should I have tapered?
Question posted by tomcat101 on 14 June 2012
Last updated on 30 December 2019
Added 20 June 2012:
It took until June 18th to feel completely "normal" again.
So if anyone else has this problem, it took 11 days for the withdrawal symptoms to end.
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
7 Answers
WildcatVet
30 Dec 2019
From the literature online and on the product insert you were given along with your prescription:
"Do not stop using citalopram suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to safely stop using this medicine."
As for how long discontinuation symptoms may last Google "citalopram withdrawal mental health daily".
Daisyforever
31 Dec 2019
I agree with Wildcat you CANNOT abruptly stop any antidepressant . The doctor has to wean you off of it. I learned the hard way years ago. Don't play with that. It's horrible... Let us know how your doing ?
Chuck1982
29 Dec 2019
I'm going through it right now.. I was taking 40mgs for over 10 years and I've only been off it for four days. So far my symptoms have been brain zaps, irritability, and a lack of interest and motivation..
bumblebee90
14 June 2012
Dear tomcat101,
I agree with Pledge. I have learned the hard way to never stop and antidepressant cold turkey. I have done it a few times. You would think I would have learned the first time after I experienced horrible side effects, but I was too ignorant and hard headed. I did finally get it though. And I will never stop one cold turkey again. I certainly don't have all the answers to why that happens, but I do hope the very best for you, and that you get to feeling better real soon. I've made alot of stupid mistakes and choices in my life, and fortunately I have learned from some of them. Not implying you made a stupid choice at all. I was talking about myself. We all learn something new every day. And I'm sure you didn't sound like an idiot at work. Don't beat yourself up. Or feel embarresed. We're glad you wrote to us and like I said... I hope the very best for you. Nothing but peace and happiness.
Hold your head up, and do what you need to do, like talk to your doctor. Hopefully you will start feeling better soon. We're here if you need us. Good luck and hang in there. Ruthie
tomcat101
15 June 2012
Thanks for the feedback. It's true I am extremely hard-headed.
Today was better though. I felt like crap this morning and was looking up strokes and heart problems on the internet, feeling certain I was about to die soon, but then my nose started running and kept running all day. I've now come to the conclusion that I coincidentally got a sinus infection at the same time I quit the Citalopram. My head has that full/stuffy feeling. A coworker gave me two of her migrane pills and I was much better by the end of the day.
As for the anxiety, I feel fantastic and life is good. I'm looking forward to some exercising as soon as I get over this little setback of sinus and/or withdrawal symptoms.
bumblebee90
15 June 2012
You poor thing... when it rains it poors. Well hang in there and feel better soon. Have a great evening. Ruthie
Chuck1982
29 Dec 2019
When it rains it pours?? I thought you were feeling fantastic??
Inactive
14 June 2012
Hello tomcat101. You are going through major withdrawls and yes, a taper as you mentioned would have been better in regards to the side effects. I am not going to suggest a taper plan at this point. You might do one of two options. Either continue and hopefully you are at the end of the tunnel, or go back on a lower dose and taper from that. Regards pledge
balbanese
14 June 2012
Well, probably should have consulted whoever it is that got you started in the first place, and I would say that is still true. Self instruction works well for assembling a bunk bed, not so with medications. Please get in touch with your Dr and get on the road to feeling better. Hope this helps.
Bunk bed?
endlessPred
14 June 2012
Hello tomcat. I agree. See your doc and let the doc know what is what. I am on that med and I was told that you have to wean off it to avoid side effects.
My guess is you will be told to do a small dose and wean from that. Kinda of reset your body and go from there. Cold turkey on just about all meds except maybe antibiotics can cause problems. Iam sure there are exceptions but anti depressants would not be the category.
endlessPred
14 June 2012
The slurre dspeech is not good. Don't know your age, but mini strokes do that. Go see someone immediately. That is never right. Get to an ER. Something else is going on for you. Strokes can be treated and can happen to anyone at any age. Slurred speech is one major sign.
Ok? Go, please...
Inactive
14 June 2012
I have to say that I never had any adverse effects from stopping any antidepressants cold turkey. But I've been off and on every psych med there is at one time or another. Might be something else going on.
Just a thought ...
Feel better and talk to your doc.
Peace,
Sweet Hippie
Related topics
Further information
- Citalopram uses and safety info
- Citalopram prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Citalopram (detailed)
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