I started on 20mg of citalopram 6 weeks ago. By the end of week 1 I noticed an improvement in my appetite and energy levels. Weeks 2 and 3 were utter hell. Increased anxiety and depression. Week 4 was better. I had a couple of good days and a couple of OK days. I could actually see a future for myself.
Things slipped again in week 5, but not back to how bad they were in weeks 2 and 3.
My doctor was encouraged that I'd had a decent week and suggested that things may have plateaued, so increased the dose to 30mg 5 days ago.
Anyway, the last couple of days have been hell again. Really bad thoughts, anxiety and depression etc. So my question is, is this normal? Is it normal for things to get worse again after a dose increase? If so, how long can I expect it to last? Many thanks.
Citalopram dose increase?
Question posted by Philw64 on 16 Sep 2022
Last updated on 16 September 2022
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.
Answers
Hi Philw64,
You sound as if you are struggling with this medication; you need to specifically tell your prescriber, the tumultuous, with bad thoughts, anxiety, and depression, directly, ASAP. The first concern is for your safety, and second, goal is to alleviate these vegetative symptoms so that your ability to function daily without the chaos occurs.
Yes, it is possible to experience, what you are going through, with an increase of any medications. There is more of the medication avalible to the brain, but because it is an SSRI, it takes an average of four to six weeks to feel the full effect. But, remember, everyone is unique, and as are their experiences with the medications.
Sometimes a smaller dosage increase 5mg instead of 10mg, may do the job.
I wish you well, don't give up.
Best Regards,
Cindy
Anything is possible. But, yes, it is not uncommon for this to occur, especially, you have more the medication avaliable to the brain.; however, just because the dose is increased, the beneficial level may not be experienced, four to six weeks.
You sound as if you are struggling with this medication; you need to specifically tell your prescriber, the tumultuous, with bad thoughts, anxiety, and depression. The first concern is that you stay safe, and you have to let your prescriber know.
Sorry for the redundant answer, pasted in the wrong area.
Cindy
Related topics
depression, anxiety, citalopram, dosage, appetite, energy
Further information
- Citalopram uses and safety info
- Citalopram prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Citalopram (detailed)
Similar questions
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.