Citalopram - what happens if I just stop taking it?

Hi LorileeB,

Cold Turkey off of Celexa (Iwas taking for 10 years) was the worst decision of my life (and I've had many bad ones). I thought I was going tohell. I couldn't eat, sleep, speak without crying. I was basically crying or sleeping, until the doc determined it was getting off the Celexa too fast. Best wishes to you,

Hey LorileeB,

It is best to not just stop taking the antidepressant citalopram. You will need to taper off this med over time. It is best to discuss this with the doctor before doing so. He/She can explain how to reduce your dosage over time so to avoid the withdraw symptoms that would occur if you just stop.

If you suddenly stop citalopram you may experience some of the following symptoms: moodiness, irritability, agitation, dizziness, sensory disturbances, anxiety, confusion, headache, lethargy, emotional lability, insomnia, and hypomania.
While these events are generally self-limiting, there have been reports of serious discontinuation symptoms.
You are best to talk to your doctor about the best way to stop.
Your doctor may decide it is best to taper (slowly reduce your dosage).