In the beginning, it worked OK for my anxiety. Not as good as Lexapro but I found Celexa to be a gentle start up and less overall side effects in general. But for the last four months I feel like I’m back to square one with my anxiety, and I even feel depressed. I’m currently on 20 of Celexa and don’t really want to increase it as I’ve read that it has some serious side effects at higher doses. My doctor would like me to add Wellbutrin, but I’m afraid that won’t be good for my anxiety. Has anyone else has Celexa stop working?
Citalopram - Why? Does Celexa generally poop out after 4 years?
Question posted by Knittergirl on 6 Oct 2023
Last updated on 10 October 2023
Answers
WildcatVet
10 Oct 2023
Hi, Knittergirl!
It's not uncommon at all for all antidepressants to poop out after long term use but don't ask me or the scientists why. For some people it may happen as early as the first few years but sometimes quite a bit longer.
Celexa is approved and considered relatively safe at a maximum of 40mg/day but doses higher than that have the potential to cause certain heart arrhythmias.
Wellbutrin (bupropion) may be a good choice for you because it has slightly higher good reviews for anxiety than Celexa... about 8 out of 10 users were happy with it.
I've been taking it for over 7 years now and for me it's worked wonders for both my depression and anxiety disorders without any significant side effects... a headache for 2-3 days when I first started it.
Best regards, Wildcat
Knittergirl
11 Oct 2023
Thanks for your input Wildcat. Had my appointment today with my PCP and he’d like me to direct switch Celexa to Zoloft. That scares me! He feels that if the Celexa isn’t working then we should get rid of it and if we need to augment Zoloft with something then add the Wellbutrin. Can I ask what you know about switching SSRI’s? Direct switch? Cross taper? What do you think is the kindest as far as side effects?
Related topics
celexa, lexapro, anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, citalopram, side effect
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